North-east of Bordeaux, handsome and creeper-covered, this 12th-century chateau stands amid vineyards. It retains its original towers and a moat where fish swim. Its managers, Luce and Jacques Bastide, with daughter, Beatrice, let five stylish suites on a B&B basis: the beds have a canopy, and nearly all the decor is white. Our room had antiques, fresh flowers, say recent guests. The bathroom was huge: bathrobes, slippers were provided. The owners, with their three dogs, were warmly welcoming, providing us with local maps, etc. The .gastronomic breakfast', elegantly served with fine china and silver in a room with interesting oil paintings, includes home-made croissants and family recipes according to the cook's imagination. The park contains a swimming pool; and visits to a local vineyard and a country club (with tennis) can be arranged. More reports welcome.