In the rolling hills of the Lot, this 19th-century manor house, approached by a long and narrow country road, has been turned by Abel and Anna Congratel into a chambres d”hôtes. They are very welcoming, say the nominators; the house is “comfortable and well appointed” and “service is second to none”. He, the chef, is French; she is English and a qualified physiotherapist (aromatherapy and massages are available to guests). The emphasis is on food and wine: gastronomic weekends and “laid-back” cookery courses are held. Dinner, booked in advance, might include foie gras poêlé aux figues; parmentier de confit de canard; petite tarte Tatin. An aperitif and wine are included. Meals are taken in ther dining room or on a panoramic terrace. Breakfast has fresh orange juice, home-made jams and yogurts. The bedrooms, all different (you can study them on the website), have rustic furniture and wooden beams. Children are warmly welcomed.