Le Chateau Faverges-de-la-Tour, Dolomieu

This is a wonderful place! I have been there twice (one week each time) with events sponsored through my employer. The house is a true old chateau that has been renovated just enough to make it comfortable but without loosing any of the charm of the place. Yes the floors creak, the paint is slightly pealing on the window frames but this is what you expect of a very old authentic chateau! The room was clean, the bed very ocmfrortable with high quality sheets and all comfortable antique furnishings. The only caution to americans is that there is no air conditioning (as of 2006) and in the summer the rooms are hot during the day. If you open the giant windows and draw the curtains to block the sun you room will cool down. The extremely high ceilings compensate greatly for the lack of air conditioning. The proprietors will also provide an oscillating fan is you ask for one in your room. The views from the terraces are spectacular. Beautiful valleys with the mountains of switzerland in the distance. On a very clear day you can even see the snow capped peak of Mont Blanc. The location is rural though. It is perfect for enjoying the beautiful garden estate, walking to the tiny village, playing some golf (on-site) but NOT good if you are looking for lots of very close activities. Lyon is only 30 minutes by car (or taxi) though if you want to visit the city. The meals are also fantastic! The chef is very talented and friendly. For americans a warning though... there is no menu. You join for dinner at the appointed time and the chef will come out to announce what the entrees will consist of (starter, main plate, cheese plate and dessert). Multiple wines come with each dinner. The food is exquisite though. Trust the chef to never disappoint! The Chateau only does "all inclusive" stays. Your stay includes all meals, an open bar that is "family style" (i.e. go behind the bar and make yourself anything you want at any time) and all sports activities. They have bicycles, soccer balls, archery equipment & range and a wonderful swimming pool, tennis rackets, etc. If you forgot to bring anything, they probably have it. They even have plenty athlentic shoes (many sizes), swim suits, rain jackets and umbrellas available you can borrow. They truly think of everything! The family that runs the place is very caring and nice. They are extremely attentive to all details and are eager to please. The only drawback to this location is that they currently are only open for business events. They do not take individual reservations. This is a shame since I would gladly vacation here!