Set in the heart of the historic Perigord region, famed for its ancient hilltop castles and medieval towns, is found the noble 19th century Domaine de Rochebois, lavishly transformed in the past decade into a hotel sans pareil. With its mosaics and albizzias, there is an Italianate flavour about the setting, enhanced by the scent of its elegant gardens, but there is no mistaking the renowned French flair for hospitality and cuisine. All the rooms are exquisitely furnished, and the public rooms are a delight: cool and elegant in summer, warm and welcoming in autumn. The 9-hole golf course which overlooks the Valley of the Dordogne will test and exhilarate, and there is a charming heated pool in the landscaped grounds.