Superbly set above the River Dordogne, this 17th-century château is now a luxury hotel (Relais & Châteaux), owned by Philippe and Stephanie Gombert. “Everything was as smooth as always,” wrote a returning visitor. “The best meal we have ever had: simple ingredients combined and cooked superbly.” Michelin awards a star, Gault Millau 16 points, for the inventive cooking of Stéphane Andrieux (eg, pot-au-feu de canard; nage de lotte au curry et saffron; savarin au chocolat Manjari), served at impeccably set tables with engraved glasses, silver candelabra, Limoges porcelain. In fine weather, dinner is served on the terrace above the water as the sun sets, and breakfast may be taken under a giant cedar of Lebanon. An earlier report: “Our bedroom, overlooking the river and the fabulous garden, had beamed ceilings, faded oriental rugs, antique armoire, superb carved doors, and on the walls old silk damask.” Cheaper rooms are in the Château du Bastit, in the grounds. Concerts and exhibitions are held in a Romanesque chapel.