Chateau D'Etoges

Quacking swans and ducks make for an atmospheric welcome crossing the stone-flanked moat encircling this 17th-century chateau, which is a registered historic monument. Interiors remain fit for the French kings who used it as a stopping point in the 18th century. Old World elegance dominates throughout, with wall-mounted tapestries, gilded sconces around heavy sash drapes, and period furniture atop antique rugs and under high ceilings. Various seating areas inside include two cozy salons, each with a fireplace. Expect a similar vibe in the fine-dining restaurant, where white-clothed tables and chandeliers reflect the gourmet fare. Extensive grounds are also impressive, with green lawns housing water features, rows of trimmed bushes, and a furnished terrace. The property attracts well-heeled couples exploring the Champagne region who favor classical interiors over modern amenities. Be aware that the hotel closes annually for three weeks in January.

The hotel's countryside location is peaceful and picturesque. Although away from crowds, guests are just a three-minute walk to the center of Etoges, where there are great restaurants and a supermarket. Supplying the Prince of Monaco, Champagne Borel-Lucas is a one-minute walk and it's just two minutes farther for tastings and tours at Verrier. A car is useful here, as plenty more vineyards are within short drives and the beautiful Montmort Chateau is a seven-minute drive. With its famous tower and home to many of the world's most famous champagnes, Epernay is a 30-minute drive. Sezanne and the flower village of Oger are 20 minutes away by car. Gnarled trees in Faux de Verzy's enchanted forest are a 45-minute drive, while the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Reims and its gothic cathedral is an hour's drive. Vatry International Airport is 45 minutes away by car and allow 90 minutes for Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Rooms are divided between the Chateau and Orangery and while all have lovely period-inspired interiors, only the latter have air-conditioning and elevator access. Lower-category Classic Rooms come in at a tight 15 to 18 square meters (161 to 194 square feet), while upgraded rooms are larger. While palettes and decor varies between rooms, guests can expect traditional wood furniture, bedding and walls in hues such as rose-pink or canary-yellow, gilded mirrors under chandeliers or lanterns, and old-fashioned artwork. Some upgraded rooms add lovely canopied beds, beautiful antique armoires, non-working fireplaces, and parquet floors. Standard amenities include small flat-screen TVs, phones, free Wi-Fi, seating areas, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and free bottled water, but there are no safes or fridges. Lovely vistas include the garden and moat. Bathrooms range from plain and straightforward to sleek and marbled, but all (aside from accessible rooms) have shower/tub combos. Upmarket toiletries and hairdryers, as are bathrobes in more expensive units.

The clear standout feature here is the well-reviewed L'Orangerie Restaurant, which draws guests and non-guests alike with gourmet French fair. Tasting menus at dinner can be paired with with champagne, and a la carte options include scallops and cheese boards. A (pricey) buffet breakfast offers champagne, scrambled eggs and bacon, breads and pastries with jam, smoked salmon, yogurt, cereal, and fruit. Note that lunch is only available during the week for groups of seven or more. There's no pool here, but a small spa offers various treatments, a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool. Note that use of facilities is only free for those who booked a treatment, and kids under 16 are not allowed. Indoor foosball and ping-pong are available, and guests can rent rowboats (for the moat) and bikes for free. A meeting room can hold 50 people and the staff can arrange champagne tastings. Parking and Wi-Fi are both free.