Château de Saint-Fargeau

The garden could be pretty, but it was poorly kept, and the old furniture outside felt uninviting. “Once upon a time there was a garden” really does describe the place. We booked because we liked the idea of table d’hôtes, but that was cancelled the day before we arrived. Most of the town's restaurants are closed on Wednesday evenings, though our hostess did take the trouble to find a decent restaurant in nearby Toucy, which is quite a feat in an area that feels like a gastronomic desert. The room had no TV or Wi-Fi, and there wasn't even a glass in the bathroom for a toothbrush. The staircase to our room looked as if it hadn't been swept in years. For what was offered, half the price would have been acceptable.

The town is very picturesque, with several places to eat, and Guedelon is nearby. We felt welcomed like part of the family. The building and garden are beautiful, and breakfast was fantastic.

A word of warning, this is a place where you can propose marriage! Didier, future husband of Anastasia

Our hostess was lovely, always smiling and attentive, and brought us a delicious, varied breakfast in the bright dining room. The house itself is magnificent, carefully restored with a romantic, bohemian feel. Its flower-filled garden smells wonderful and has a few shady, wilder corners. Even the swimming pool sits naturally among the greenery. We absolutely loved this bed and breakfast and would happily stay again.