One of the largest and most spread-out wine regions of France, the Loire Valley is home to a vast range of different wines and almost every style of wine imaginable. It is a peaceful and picturesque region where the pace of life is calm and sedate, the majestic Loire River slowly winding its way, fed by a number of tributaries, many of which are important rivers in their own right. Many different grape varieties are grown and it is the cultural home to varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and the red Cabernet Franc.

With summer now well and truly upon us, the Loire Valley is a fabulous destination for a relaxing break. The central Loire Valley in the Touraine region has the perfect combination of attractions for a visit designed to unwind and de-stress. Dozens of amazing chateaux to visit with their beautiful parks and gardens, such as Chenonceau, Chambord and Cheverny, along with wonderful food and excellent wines.

A recently opened new luxury hotel is ideally located to take full advantage of this unique region. Les Sources de Cheverny is a five-star hotel set amongst a natural environment of leafy woodlands and surrounded by forests, vineyards and chateaux. An idyllic, luxury haven of peace, the hotel is only 3 miles from the Seventeenth century Chateau de Cheverny and is set in a 100-acre park, with its own chateau housing the most incredible Spa, with both indoor and outdoor pools.

Impeccably run by a team of professionals under the direction of Natasha Thorp, the friendly staff ensure your stay is seamless enjoyment from the moment you arrive. Boasting two gourmet restaurants, there is a choice between the Michelin starred ‘Le Favori’ restaurant and the more informal ‘Auberge’, with a wonderful outside covered terrace and where everything (except perhaps pasta!) is cooked on an open wood fire.

A chic, contemporary environment has been created surrounded by nature, where epicureans are in heaven with innovative dishes created from fresh local produce by chef Frédéric Calmels and his team. Equally impressive, certainly from my point of view, is the extensive wine list, with carefully selected, interesting wines of true character chosen from across France. True to its Loire Valley location, there are several pages of wines from the region, with the wine list of the Auberge alone featuring over 55 Loire whites and 40 reds, with a good selection offered by the glass.

Les Sources de Cheverny is an unmissable destination in the central Loire Valley, combining top luxury accommodation, top quality tasty cuisine, an extensive, well-chosen list of local wines and a peaceful environment surrounded by trees and wildflowers. A place to relax and chill-out this Summer.