Chateau de L'ile

There's a fairytale magic to this beautifully restored chateau, where quaint exteriors are traditional Alsatian architecture. Flowers lining its entrance road hint at the property's 10 acres (four hectares) of natural woodlands, and strolls to the River Ill at its borders are as fun for kids as they are romantic. Interiors err on the old-fashioned side -- think period furnishings, wall carvings, and jewel-toned wallpapers in chandelier-clad restaurants, but the overall look is charming. Smart dining terraces are peaceful, and woodland vistas here are gorgeous, although frequent large groups can disrupt serenity. For a stately property, the family-friendly atmosphere is surprisingly relaxed. Note that rates soar during European Parliament dates.

The hotel sits a five-minute walk from the pretty village of Ostwald, which is small, but well-connected to Strasbourg. Ostwald Hotel de Ville station is a 13-minute walk, and Tram B runs to Strasbourg TGV train station in 20 minutes. Journeys by car take 17 minutes. The village itself is sleepy, but it has an excellent bakery and some restaurants, although most guests head straight to Strasbourg. The city's political significance has historic counterparts, and Strasbourg Cathedral and medieval Petite France are both a half-hour journey by tram (or quicker drive). Strasbourg International Airport is a 12-minute drive, or one hour by public transport.

Grand rooms with varied decor reflect the chateau setting, though the traditional fittings won't be to everyone's taste. Expect wallpapers in florals or stripes, carpeted floors in bright-red or beige, a mix of classic wooden furniture, patterned upholstery and bedspreads, and gold chandeliers. Amenities, on the other hand, are modern, and include small flat-screen satellite TVs, phones, desks, trouser presses, safes, AC, and minibars, but no tea- or coffee-making facilities are provided. Larger Family rooms sleep four, and teddy bears here accompany baby kits, although all guests get welcome candy. Marble bathrooms are lovely, with stall showers and separate, vanity kits on granite counters, slippers, and robes, though hairdryers could use an update. Period seating areas are more extensive in Superior Rooms, which also have woodland-facing balconies. Suites starting at 420 square feet (39 square meters) have full living rooms. Nature vistas are romantic, although alternative village views are equally pretty. Note, elevators bypass some rooms, so best to enquire ahead if stairs are an issue. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

French gastronomy is offered at Le Gourmet de L'Ile, while the hotel's second restaurant, Le Winstrub, is brasserie-style. The latter's traditional "choucroute" here is slow-cooked, and cheeses add regional influences. Its plaids and heart-carved chairs are less fussy than the main restaurant's pristine layouts, although wood paneling in both is elegant. Breakfast is pricey, but lavish, and its buffet offers cooked and continental options, plus homemade cakes. Outdoor dining terraces are blissful, mostly due to their woodland and river views. Terraces can be hired for functions, although the five meeting rooms hardly lack grandeur. The largest holds 250 persons, standing. Heydt Bar's fine wines include some local specialities, and a pool table keeps the space casual. Room service is available 24/7. Le Spa de L'Ile has chic loungers around an indoor pool, although whirlpool, sauna, and steam room capacity are limited. Reflexology and massages are also on offer. One downside, there's no gym here. Badminton, table tennis, and free-to-borrow bikes provide outdoor fun. Parking is free, as is Wi-Fi throughout, but it can be slow at times.