In six hectares of parkland, on the banks of a river, lies the delightful Manoir  Estuaire, a ten bedroomed home in the southern Loire Valley, just 20km from the historic town of Châteauroux.

Dating back to the beginning of the 18^th Century, this French manoir has been charmingly restored by its Scandinavian owners. The result is a home full of history, period furnishings and tradition combined with modern facilities and wonderful gardens. Each of the ten bedrooms has its own character and style whilst there is ample living space on the lower and upper ground floors so that guests can find quiet corners to relax or meet in more convivial settings. A meal together in the wine cellar, lit by candlelight, is one of the many experiences that guests will never forget.

As well as the glorious al-fresco terrace and beautiful swimming pool with its wave machine, the six hectares of gardens are a delight, especially for younger guests with modern tennis courts, boules, a football pitch and a slide to keep children occupied whilst older guests can enjoy a spot of fishing or messing about on the river with the rowing boat. The surrounding countryside, filled with fields of yellow rape, vineyards and meadows, is ideal for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

If you can bring yourself to leave the parkland and manoir, there is a wealth of delightful places to explore from the historic market town of Châteauroux to idyllic villages such as Saint-Benoit du Sault and La Châtre. No visit to the Loire Valley would be complete without a visit to a magical castle and Château de Valencay won’t disappoint. It’s also possible to visit Loire Valley highlights further north on the river such as Blois and Tours, both within a couple of hours by car.

In the park, there is also another beautiful old building which can be rented on request for an additional charge to accommodate up to 10 extra guests. This is an old smithy, recently renovated to the highest standards, which comprise a superb wine cellar, cosy kitchen and living room, four suites, a twin bedrooms and three spacious bathrooms. The best room is  located in the tower: it boasts a large round window offering stunning views of the park and a massive en-suite bathroom, making for a fabulous bridal suite.

Yet it may be that all you wish to do is laze by the pool or head down to the river’s edge during your stay in this traditional yet impressive manoir  in this beautiful region of central France.