La Demeure de La Vignole

In a quaint troglodyte hamlet on a hillside overlooking the Loire River, this rustic-chic hotel is an easy drive from both Saumur town centre and Fontevraud Abbey, making it a wonderful base for Loire Valley sightseeing.

The hotel covers the whole hamlet, so rooms – all accessed via narrow winding streets and many cut directly into the Loire’s emblematic white Tuffeau rock – are set either in a 17th-century mansion or in medieval buildings, which lends a unique feel to your stay.

The quirkiest spot is the heated pool and exercise area, set entirely in a cave and the perfect place to wind down after a day outside. Couple that with the excellent prices and you’ve got yourself a brilliant stay for couples and families alike.