Les Etangs de Corot Les Etangs de Corot

Just 15 minutes outside of Paris' high-heeled pageantry, rests the artful Les Etangs de Corot. Leafy, age-old trees, a quiet lake, and everything you hoped proper French food and wine would be.

Few countries do "bucolic" as well as France: the fresh, rustic food, the tradition of delicate wines, and the natural serenity that seems to envelope you instantly. One of the quickest ways to visit this scene is to grab the closest baguette, point your Renault towards Ville D'Avray, and drive for 15 minutes. You'll then find yourself at the door of Les Etangs de Corot.

A magnet for writers and those involved in the arts for over 200 years, the lakeside retreat offers no shortage of inspiration. Grab your sketchbook and/or notepad and take to surrounding trails via bike or foot. You're sure to find a muse somewhere. If not, well, it may be time to retreat to the spa.

Going by the name of Caudalie, the spa offers Vinothérapie, baths, wraps, facials, hand and foot treatments, and whatever else you need to detach from the corporeal world.

Privacy may be the thing you need, so retreat to your room - one of 43. Each has its own individual flair, but most show off French Country roots with minimalist sensibilities. For researching or just searching, rooms feature highspeed WiFi.

No matter if you're successful in creating your Magnum Opus or not, you'll need to eat. Authentic bistro dishes are served in warm surroundings at Le Café Des Artistes, and French fine dining goes avante-garde at Le Corot Restaurant. When the air is warm, dine over the lake at Les Paillotes, the outdoor twin to Le Corot.