Here's an hotel that ticks all my boxes. And it's heart-warming to find that enthusiasm for the Château de Projan is shared by all but the most finicky guests - people, perhaps, who struggle to survive a French summer without air-conditioning. For the rest of us, there's only one word: outstanding.
The building itself is one of those attractive, welcoming and rather grand manor houses, set in a well-tended parc that's shaded by huge oak trees. The views all around are magical at any time of day but perhaps best of all at sunset as you dine al fresco on the terrace.
Indoors, antiques contrast to great effect with an impressive collection of contemporary art. Patrons Christine and Richard Poullain are delightfully relaxed hosts yet they maintain the highest of standards of hospitality. Richard's cuisine closely follows the seasons and it is very good indeed. He passes on his expertise with the occasional cookery course and wine tastings.
Menu prices are as reasonable as rates for the bedrooms - you pay according to the size. All the accommodation is imaginatively presented, including the bathrooms which have lots of personal touches. The Poullains may have only seven rooms but, with a heated pool, a tennis court, badminton and bike hire, they clearly believe in spoiling their lucky guests.
This is a very special place to stay.