Château les Merles | A boutique hotel in the heart of the Bergerac vineyards of southern France

We think the Dordogne region of France is one of the most romantic places in the world. With castles, rivers, forests and fine wines around every corner, this sunny spot is a haven for fans of luxurious living. And, for those couples looking for a holiday to remember, we recommend the beautiful Château les Merles. This stylish and modern four star hotel is top notch.

Château les Merles is a boutique affair, where fairytale France meets modern sophistication. The original architecture is 18th century, with all the charms of yesteryear. Inside, there are 15 contemporary rooms, each with a great feeling of light and space. You can choose between a double room, a double deluxe room, a suite, an apartment or a nearby villa with its own terrace and pool.

Each of these rooms has been tailor made, with an elegant mix of black wooden flooring, luxury white fabrics and soft lighting. They are beautiful, sophisticated and simply a pleasure to be in.

The restaurant gastronomique at Les Merles specialises in creative, contemporary cuisine of national renown based on its own biological vegetable garden. You can relax in the lounge style bar and dine in the former barn of Château les Merles, which has been transformed into a gourmet hotspot. The restaurant offers a delicious choice of seasonal dishes, created by the Dutch Master Chef Albert Kooy, who carefully selects the best local and in-house ingredients for his new Périgord kitchen. Dine here and you can also enjoy a complete and unique selection of excellent local wines from the seven Bergerac regions.

The Château les Merles is a great place to unwind. You can take a dip in its swimming pool, or enjoy a beauty treatment in its Wellness Centre. And how about a go on its private golf course – with 9 holes, a driving range and putting green. Or there are tennis courts for you to enjoy. All this is situated in the heart of Bergerac vineyards and forests on the hills of the Dordogne river, with beautiful scenery and memorable views.

Staff can help cater for a wedding here, or small private party, and there are lounges and halls for business meetings.

The area is awash with things to see and experience. Aside from the great food and wine on offer, this region of France is known for its history - and in particular the cave paintings that can be seen at the Grotte de Lascaux. Then there’s the castles - we think the Chateux de Beynac is a 12th century gem worth seeking out. You can experience the bustle of a popular French market at Sarlat, or how about a trip to the Garden of Marqueyssac, overlooking the Dordogne valley. Stunning.