'A lovely hotel'. The owner/managers, Anne and Xavier Olivereau, are the fourth generation of the family to run this handsome pepperpotted Second Empire mansion, set amid woods and lawns in a park. A luxurious Relais du Silence, it has glorious views over the valley of the Indre from its lovely dining terrace. Some suites are in the turrets, eight luxurious rooms have been converted from stables. 'Our large room had a deck with a beautiful view.' 'Ours was lushly furnished.' In the orangery restaurant, chef David Chartier's menus are based on 'la richesse du terroir' (pigeon, rabbit, beef, etc). 'Very good service, especially at dinner.' 'The rowing boat was still there for guests to dabble in the slow waters of the Indre,' said a returning visitor, 'and the view across to the tower of Montbazon was as clear as ever.' There's a heated outdoor swimming pool, and Loire châteaux, Villandry, Chenonceaux, etc, are not far.