Valmer’s 80ha-park and gardens are in a remarkable spot overlooking the Brenne Valley. The château was destroyed in a fire in 1948, but its grounds retain terracing and the layout of fine italianate gardens. The terraces head down to a historic kitchen garden with countless varieties of vegetable, both ancient and modern. Finish by the cool moat. Access is by a 15C spiral staircase (hidden in the large yew!) from the Leda terrace.