In a majestic setting surrounded by parkland and century-old trees, Manoir De L'Adour is a beautiful 18th century home with exquisite interiors as well as a superb location near the charming city of Bayonne and a short drive from Biarritz and the stunning Basque coast.

The manoir has an interesting history with some parts dating back to the 17th century and the impressive tower added in the 19th century. As well as a family home with its own chapel, it was also once a cloister for nuns. Original features from its past remain such as the splendid fireplaces and pierre de Bidache flooring in the kitchen and grand entrance. There is certainly a strong sense of the manoir’s history across the home alongside superbly styled interiors and many 21st century features.

The beautifully styled living rooms are full of light thanks to the elegant French windows leading out to the terraces and garden whilst the spacious kitchen-diner is brilliantly equipped. Six individually styled bedrooms offer elegance and grace including a top-floor tower room with cathedral high ceilings. The six bath and shower rooms add even more opulence to this refined home with classic detail and fine fittings. 

Set on a hill overlooking the Adour river, the gardens are glorious with sloping lawns, century-old trees and rustic stone steps leading down to the brilliant swimming pool. Enjoy the tranquillity as you find a peaceful spot or simply lounge on the lawn before a dip in the refreshing pool, perfect on a warm summery afternoon. In the evening gather by the plancha and barbecue, cook up a feast with food from local markets and sip chilled Basque wine as you take in the beauty around you.

Within a 10-minute drive you can be exploring the medieval, narrow lanes of the charming Basque city of Bayonne with its gothic style cathedral, 17th century ramparts, riverside restaurants and pretty shops and galleries.

A little further and you will reach the Atlantic coast within 11km where you will find many fantastic sandy beaches from family-friendly to wild and remote. This coastline is a mecca for surfers and you’ll be able to find equipment hire and lessons for many ages and abilities. Golf-lovers shouldn’t miss one of France’s most prestigious courses at NAS Golf Chiberta near the stunning Ocean beach.

Not forgetting the glitz of Biarriz, only 11.5km by car, where you can dine in fine restaurants by the Port des Pecheurs, pick up some Basque specialities from Les Halles market, relax on the famous La Grande Plage backed by Art Deco residences or admire the stunning views from the lighthouse or Rocher de la Vierge.

The Pyrénées-Atlantiques region also offers a wealth of great outdoor activities, idyllic mountain villages and laid-back seaside towns. That said, it may be hard to leave your magnificent manoir for too long with all its beauty, elegance and tranquillity.

• The sixth bedroom is on the top floor in the rather romantic tower with little windows to peep through and cathedral-high ceilings