Domaine de Verchant

Housed in a 16th-century former mansion, this 42-acre wine estate is currently run by owners Pierre and Chantal Mestre. Wrought-iron gates opening to a long driveway next to vineyards hint at the property's grandeur, and original stone and yellow-painted exteriors are quaint. Interiors, however, take a sharp turn, outfitted in chic, contemporary decor in largely neutral tones. An infinity pool overlooking the vineyards and elegant spa are typical on-site hangout spots for the crowd of mostly couples. Unfortunately, the property is popular with wedding and corporate groups, which can cause noise disturbances and block some areas off to other guests. This is a great, romantic pick for travelers wanting a swish stay near Montpelier, though don't mind having to drive everywhere. 

The hotel's removed location means a car or taxi is necessary to get anywhere of interest. Guests are a 15-minute drive from Montpelier's center and airport. Montpellier train station is a 20-minute drive, and trains from Paris and Marseille are frequent. It's worth the short journey into town to see historic sights such as Place de la Comedie, which houses the city's Opera House. The Fabre Museum and Botanical Gardens are nearby. Rue de la Loge is great for shopping and Comptoir de l'Arc restaurant is on a charming old square. The Medieval town of Aigues-Mortes is a half-hour drive, while beaches are 20 minutes away by car. Nimes and Beziers airports are both within a 50-minute drive. This is a Relais & Chateaux property.

Divided between the old chateau, outbuildings, and former forge, contemporary rooms are gorgeous. Starting at 27 square meters (291 square feet), they're all fairly spacious, and upgraded units are larger. Design can vary a bit between rooms, but expect mostly neutral tones, a mix of wood, tile, and stone, plush beds, and splashes of color from decor accents such as patterned rugs, ottomans, and orchids. Some units have furnished terraces with pretty vistas, and other upgrades include two-person whirlpool tubs, living spaces, and/or kitchen-equipped apartments. Excellent standard amenities consist of plush beds, Apple computers and printers, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, minibars, and espresso machines -- though pods require a fee. Closets have safes and ironing facilities. Swish bathrooms are high-end, but their open-plan layout may lack enough privacy for some. Showers and separate tubs come standard, as do an array of luxe toiletries, hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers.

Although there are no elevators, ground-floor units are available. 

Two outdoor pools include a garden-set one and an infinity pool with a beach club vibe. Sunbeds surround both, and the latter has lovely vineyard views and disk-jockeys in the summer. Another pool is found at the swish spa, as are three saunas, steam rooms, and treatment rooms. A hot tub and well-equipped gym are also available. Bikes are available for borrow. Next to the pool is a casual restaurant and bar, and there's a gourmet eatery serving regional Mediterranean cuisine. note that the fine-dining restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. A shop and tasting cellar allow guests to sample wine from the vineyards. Parking and Wi-Fi are free, while pets are allowed for a fee. There are no kid-centric amenities.