Domaine de la Tortiniere

Nestled among 37 acres (15 hectares) of woodlands, manicured lawns, and a sea of cyclamens, there's an enchanting magic to this 1861-built chateau that extends to four outhouses. Outdoor terraces and garden seating next to ivy-covered buildings and overlooking a river are particular popular in the warmer months. Period interiors encompass antique furniture, carved walls, and a wrought-iron staircases. The bar and lounge are particularly atmospheric, with parquet wood floors, a black-marble fireplace, tufted armchairs, and old-fashioned portraits. A billiards room has a gentlemen's club vibe with its walls half done in plaid wallpaper and half in wood paneling, leather armchairs, and floor candelabras. Although some families with kids are guests here, the romantic vibe and setting is best suited to couples on vacation.

The hotel has a removed location that provides a quiet, peaceful setting. It's between the villages of Montbazon, home to the ancient Black Falcon fortress, and Veigne's flowered bridges -- both within a seven-minute drive. Tours' shops, dining, cathedral, and Botanical Gardens are a 20-minute drive. Wine estates dot the surrounding area and the hotel is a great starting point for exploring the Loire Valley. Forty-minute drives to the west take guests to the medieval city of Chinon for great vintage wines. Trains from Paris run to Tours train station in under two hours. Tours Val de Loire Airport is a 20-minute drive, while Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport are roughly three hours.

Divided between the chateau and four outhouses, rooms have an elegant mix of classic and contemporary furnishings. Design varies between units, but guests can largely expect solid or patterned carpets, modern and antique wood furniture, and pops of burgundy or bright yellow in linens, Some have slanted ceilings, funky wallpaper, and Delft bathroom tiles for charming accents. Although no elevators are on-site, ground-floor units are available. Standard amenities consist of small flat-screen TVs, minibars, phones, safes, desks, and armchairs, plus welcome drinks in glass decanters. No kettles or coffeemakers are provided. Some units have tiny balconies with gorgeous garden views. Older-looking bathrooms have shower/tub, while upgraded rooms have large rainfall showers and separate tubs. Hairdryers and upscale toiletries are provided. Suites start at 40 square meters (431 square feet) and may be located in the castle turrets. These have separate living rooms. 

All the expected amenities for a romantic getaway are found here, but don't expect much for kids. The standout here is a heated outdoor pool (open April through September), set in well-manicured grounds and lined by loungers. Year-round amenities include a tennis court, billiards room, and table tennis, plus a small spa offering massage treatments and a sauna. Orangery Restaurant serves well-reviewed French fare, including "escargot" and a popular cheese cart. Kids' menus and a buffet breakfast spread are available. Guests often make use of the cozy lounge, due to its bar service and lovely fireplace. Free on-site parking and property-wide Wi-Fi are available.