The fairy tale retreat of Domaine des Etangs reopens with a new chef for the Michelin starred 'Dyades'

Planning a trip to France is even more special now because we have the time to save and plan for that memorable day when we can travel to Europe again and taste the food of Michelin starred chefs.

If you are searching for a place to dream of, a romantic escape or a wedding venue, then look no further than Domaine des Etangs. The sumptuous 11th century chateau is set amid 2500 acres of protected nature, forests, grasslands and seven tranquil lakes is set close to Massignac two hours from Bordeaux.

On June 2, Chef Geraud Dupuis will commence at the Michelin starred Dyades restaurant at Domaine des Etangs. In keeping with the standard at Dyades, Geraud Dupuis’ career includes training and working at Michelin starred restaurants including working for Chefs such as Pierre Maillet, Edouard Loubet, Stéphane Buron and Marguerite Bise.

He will create new dishes, new menus, and an unchanged philosophy committed to enhancing the riches of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. Dupuis favours a culinary style which highlights plants, the result of close collaborations with suppliers, producers and gardeners, an approach to gastronomy that is not restricted to the formal limits of the plate but that also involves the culinary arts, table service, and includes all those who prepare, recommend and present the food to the guests.

Besides feasting on the tastes of the region, there is no finer place to social distance or self isolate. One could never be bored with a floating tennis court, an outdoor heated pool and an onsite art gallery. A dip in the hydrotherapy pool followed by an ice rub down in the Figidarium will certainly get the heart pumping. Up the level with a café au lait in an exquisite salon decorated with antique French furniture and walls that house Picassos and Matisses.

Other complimentary extras include yoga, pilates, wine tasting and cycling. Jean Francois Magnan will even take you on a tour of the estate to spot wildlife and learn of the history

Cuisine is from the Michelin started restaurant Dyades which opens on June 2. The walnut infused Timanoix cheese made by Trappist Monks is definitely one for the bucket list.

Breakfast is served in more cosy surrounds which includes a smorgasbord of cheese, compotes, yoghurt, cheese, pastries and some traditional morsels. If you have room for lunch a picnic is a must which comes in a wicker basket with little jars filled with salads, and there are baguettes, fruit and pastries.

But which room to choose? Does one decide upon the simple yet rustic farmhouses of which there are seven or one of the seven rooms in the chateaux. No matter which your bed will be superb and your sleep even better.

Rooms start from 368 € – 3,150 € per night so we all have ample time to start putting aside our pennies for a once in a lifetime experience.