f you dream of rural locations, fresh organic produce, and the wholesome atmosphere of a traditional farm, but you also value your home comforts and appreciate good design, then a stay at a boutique agritourism hotel might just be for you. With sumptuous locations in Canada, Portugal, and France, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding your rural idyll.
Jiva Hill Resort Crozet Stay in the heart of agrarian Quebec in the quaint town of Baie-Saint-Paul. 4* Hotel La Ferme offers historic farm buildings, sympathetically restored, alongside an on-site Farmers' Market and cafe. You won't miss out on modern luxuries, however: each splendidly appointed room comes decorated with scenes from agricultural life, and is fully equipped with a flat screen TV and an iPod docking station.
Herdade de Matinha If your heart belongs to France, then this hotel in the Haute-Savoie, Les Fermes de Marie, in bucolic Megève, a popular ski resort near Mont Blanc, is for you. The hotel's Alpin Restaurant offers tasty, seasonal dishes with locally sourced food, while the rooms heavily feature natural materials such as exposed pine, marble, and stone. The hotel is complete with a swimming pool and spa facilities.
Quinta do Vallado For real Arcadian romance, head to Portugal's Quinta do Vallado. Based in the countryside outside Porto, this delightful design hotel on the banks of the Corgo River is surrounded by a vineyard, and its sun drenched gardens offer relaxing walks all year round. With balconies over the river, and local food and wine always available, the hotel also provides bicycles which are free to hire, and a well-stocked library. Additionally, an airport shuttle and massage service are available.
La Ferme de Marjolet If these hotels don't whet your rustic appetite, try the splendid La Ferme de Marjolet in Burgundy, or beautiful, quirky Herdade da Matinha Country House & Restaurant in Portugal. The choice is yours.