Les Etangs de Corot

Easily accessible from Paris by train or car, Les Etangs de Corot, is a delightful refuge where you can relax in country-chic accommodations, explore beautiful nature trails, feast at a gastronomic restaurant, and get pampered in a world-class Caudalie Spa.

Les Etangs de Corot in Ville d’Avray is named for its historic setting, overlooking the ponds and forests that inspired many great painters and writers—notably the forefather of Impressionism, Camille Corot. Owned and operated by Alice and Jérôme Tourbier, who also run Les Source de Caudalie in Bordeaux, their second hotel (43 rooms and suites, opened in 2008) combines upscale creature comforts with the charm and character of a weekend country house.

Alice Tourbier’s smart and original interior design integrates antique furniture and contemporary decorative accents throughout the hotel. In a nod to the illustrious artists who spent time in Ville d’Avray, the guestrooms feature reproductions of 19th century French landscape paintings. Meanwhile illustrations of birds and animals by contemporary artist Walton Ford (on display in the lobby), offer a modern take of nature-inspired art. The guestrooms and public areas remain airy and bright thanks to lots of large windows and glass doors. All are individually decorated with family heirlooms and flea market finds (worn leather club chairs, secretary desks, brass lamps) and modern flourishes like bold Farrow & Ball patterned wallpaper and oversized mirrors.

Like the Tourbier’s property in Bordeaux (Les Source de Caudalie), Les Etangs de Corot incorporates wine into all aspects of the hotel experience. For example, the long windowed hallway connecting the reception area to the bar/lounge is lined with 2,500 empty green bottles from the family’s château, Smith Haut-Lafitte. But perhaps the most luxurious wine-related indulgences are hotel’s signature spa treatments, which feature products derived from grape vines as well as the grapes themselves.

Indagare Tip: In the summer, if you are visiting Versailles, it's worth making a reservation at Les Paillotes, the lofted covered terrace that overlooks the scenic greenery and pond. Guests can dine en plein air on summery fare like pea and mint gazpacho, sea bass à la plancha, and strawberries and cream.

Couples looking to escape city life for a night or two of R&R without committing to a long haul will appreciate the fresh-air atmosphere, proximity to Versailles, and the luxurious spa treatments.