Les Hauts de Loire

An ivy-covered hunting lodge in the Loire Valley countryside, about two hours from Paris, with 180 acres of parkland where swans drift across a pond as if they've read the brochure. It holds a Michelin Key. Château rooms lean toward elegant restraint with antiques and proper bathrooms; carriage house rooms trade a little charm for more space. Hot air balloon rides over the valley can be arranged, for those who feel the swans aren't doing enough.