Chateau de la Barre; Conflans Sur Anille, France

When Comte Guy de Vanssay inherited this 14th/18th century castle in 2002, he and the Comtesse, Marnie, decided to leave their jobs in Paris and move to the 100-acre estate two hours southwest of the city. They became the 20th generation of the family to live here but, thinking the house felt too empty, opened five bedrooms filled with exquisite fabrics and family antiques. They happily escort guests to the grand chateaux of the nearby Loire Valley, share rare bottles of wine with them at dinner and hold an occasional French language immersion course. “People think they’re coming to see the Comte and Comtesse,” said the Comtesse, “but we’re just Guy and Marnie.”

Rooms: $173-$293For more information: www.chateaudelabarre.com