Domaine de la Tortinière

Domaine de la Tortinière Review

Legend has it that this was one of Audrey Hepburn's favorites, and you can see why immediately, as this storybook, toy-size, neo-Gothic château comes complete with two fairy-tale towers, a heated, terraced pool, and owners who, while proud that their domain was built in 1861, are intent on nearing perfection in all things bright and beautiful. Seven miles south of Tours atop a vast, sloping lawn, the main building conveys quiet, rustic luxury in both the Louis Seize public salons and soigné guest rooms; the conversation pieces are those in the two turrets, while other rooms delight with beamed ceilings. Most beds are so comfy it's hard to wake up. In recent years the owners have smartly done up the former stables, warehouses, and servants' quarters. Replete with Louis XVI chairs, taffeta curtains, chiffonière mirrors, plate-glass windows, and air-conditioning, these are almost more alluring than the rooms in the main château. The stylish rotunda restaurant looks out over the lawn and showcases David Chartier's cuisine, including beuchelle tourangelle, sautéed veal sweetbreads with morels in white wine (no dinner Sunday, November through March).