A short distance from ecotours, kayaking, and more, this family-friendly castle lets you experience it all. Allier is just a short walk away, so you can leave your car at the property, which offers onsite parking, or jump in your vehicle to make the 14-minute drive to Parc Naturel Regional Livradois-Forez.

After you return to this 4413-sq-ft castle, you can unwind by the heated pool or sip a drink in the garden; you may also like the deck or patio and outdoor furniture. As for the great indoors, you can try your hand at table tennis and billiards, or enjoy the free WiFi, stereo, and DVD player.

This 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom rental features a dining area, a sofa bed, a BBQ grill, and a desk. Bathroom amenities include a hair dryer, towels, and toilet paper. Prepare a home-cooked meal in the kitchen, complete with an oven, a stovetop, and a refrigerator, as well as a coffee maker, an electric kettle, and an ice maker. And you won't have to pack extra clothes, because you'll have a washer and dryer, too.