The bucolic, medieval charm of the Chateau de Castel-Novel, set between Correze and the Dordogne, wooed the writer Collette who wrote: "everything is too beautiful, I am quite drunk".

This chateau it has to be said is more of a medieval village than a castle with rooms and suites scattered around the ancient courtyards.

Now owned by the Baglioni Hotels Group, with a one Michelin star restaurant, this castle has been the scene of much intrigue.

Overlooking the fairytale ruins of an earlier 12^th -13th century castle.

.The countryside features heavily in chateaux-life, and Chateau de Mercues is no exception.

Ok, this chateau was actually built in the magnificent Renaissance period but, surrounded by a moat it has enough towers and turrets, to qualify as a pretty romantic destination.