Maisonnette (type studio) Indépendante

Not far from the château, this contemporary bistro nestled behind a traditional burgundy-coloured façade makes an impression! Two old friends, who met at Tours hospitality management school, rustle up a flawless culinary experience, delving freely into the abundance of first-rate local produce available, from asparagus and strawberries in season to Roi Rose pork and goat's cheese. Dishes that taste as delicious as they sound include roasted scallops, cauliflower and vanilla oil; or lemon tart sprinkled with dried black lemon, a wickedly tempting detail that makes this dessert irresistible.

The troglodyte dining room, wood burning fire in winter and the terrace shaded by a wisteria in fine weather are just a few of the discreet appeals of this charming establishment. The cuisine is tasty and wholesome, based on local produce and served with Loire wines. Booking advisable.

After a major refurbishment, the classical grandeur and former lustre of this majestic 18C manor house, whose beautiful troglodytic guestrooms are built directly into the tufa cliff, have been restored. The chef crafts a score that showcases top-notch produce (langoustine, foie gras, lobster, sweetbread), consummately and flawlessly. The terrace overlooking the river is simply divine!

A restored farmstead nestling in the midst of sprawling private woodland houses an unconventional property guided by foraging. Wild plants are picked on the estate and the veggies are from the permaculture cottage garden and neighbouring organic farm, acquired by the owners, all of which sets the scene for unexpected creative cuisine. The dining room is wood-rich, while lodges on stilts and artwork set the scene outdoors. The single set several course menu may include green pea and wild sorrel ice cream, flame-licked mackerel and buds of wild brambles or foie gras wrapped in woodland smartweed