La Reboursiere

We felt like honored family at La Reboursière. Our room was spacious and attractively decorated, with a view of the lavender garden. Mme Chappuy left a vase of fresh flowers every day. If the house were air conditioned, it would be Paradise--I'm sure it is at all seasons but mid-summer (we visited during an excessively hot spell). Mme Chappuy is a fabulous cook, and M Chappuy is an accomplished gardener who provides much of the beautiful produce she uses. Breakfast is a banquet, with homemade coffeecake, granola, and jams, the best yogurt we've ever tasted (made fresh overnight, with mint from the garden), delicious coffee, fresh fruit, and crisp pastries. By all means book dinner, served on the shaded terrace in good weather, with a peaceful view over the green Sarthe valley. Each evening brings a new delight, beginning with a local apéritif and nibbles like homemade cheese puffs or bacon pastry, followed by entrées like dorado mousse or tuna gazpacho. The main course is accompanied by a local wine; a cheese course and decadent dessert follow. The clientele is international, with French the preferred language but many others heard. You will be more comfortable if you speak some French, though Mme Chappuy can manage English and German as well. What's not to love?