Mr & Mrs Smith

The panoramic countryside views may seem sleepy and quiet – but there is much to do here for every one in the family – children have no excuse to be bored for even a moment. Although situated inland there is no shortage of watersports – from dingy sailing, canoeing and fishing (pre-booking necessary) on the local lakes, to white-water rafting in the Pyrenées as well as there being a host of waterparks for those who need an adrenalin rush.

If you’re looking for something slightly more grown-up then take advantage of the Armagnac and vineyard tours and taste your way through the grapes and buy a few bottles to continue your wine education back at the house. A recommendation is the Château Monluc which offers a free tour and tasting, but make sure you book (www.monluc.fr; +33 (0)5 62 28 94 00).

Perhaps underestimated as a tourist destination compared with Paris say, but with lots of must-see potential, Toulouse is just 50 minutes from Château de Lartigolle. There is an abundance of creativity nestled here from the worlds of engineering (namely aerospace), music and of course phenomenal gastronomy. With all these influences, the boutiques that have emerged are also full of imagination – and cover all bases from clothing and shoes to art and antiques.

Mobiles work in the courtyard and upstairs in the château, downstairs, not so well – the walls are, after all, 75cm thick. You may find this a hindrance or, more likely, a relaxation-guaranteeing blessing! If you loiter in the courtyard though, phone signals are strong.