Castigno offers various experiences (including borrowing that vintage Citroën mentioned earlier: £177 for half a day). So, to soak up all that wine, I join chef Rosina for a bread-making class (£49 each). We bake four different loaves, and I feel utterly relaxed by the therapeutic kneading. In fact, Castigno’s ethos is all about switching off: wifi is available in reception, but a digital detox is encouraged.

A trip to Village Castigno would not be complete without dining in all three of the restaurants, which are dotted around the square, encouraging the sense of community. From a hearty breakfast of pastries and cheese at La Petite Table, to the haute cuisine of La Table and the Asian flavours of Le Thai. Each restaurant’s menu changes every day, using fresh produce from Castigno’s own vegetable plot and herb garden. Alternatively, enjoy a picnic of local olives, cheese and – of course – wine in the vineyard. The Castigno staff will even thoughtfully pack a battery-powered record player (and music of your choice) in your picnic basket to soundtrack your lunch. And, if all that food and wine gets a bit much, you can relax in Le Petit Péché, a wellness room offering Ayurvedic massages and treatments.

A haven for foodies, wine lovers and anyone seeking a more indulgent authentic getaway, Village Castigno is everything that France does best.

Prices start from £115 per night on a room-only basis; visit villagecastigno.com

Images: Village Castigno

Visit France’s latest foodie paradise