Driving up the serpentine lane to Auberge du Jeu de Paume, one almost expects 18th-century French gentry to gallop past into the surrounding 20,000-acre forest. This Chantilly estate has long been an aristocratic playground, with the Château de Chantilly, the Great Stables, the Horse Museum, a racetrack, and resplendent property. The Auberge's 92 rooms and suites combine period embellishments with modern comforts; there is a relaxing spa, gastronomic dining at La Table du Connétable, and a wide range of activities to fill the days. This is the perfect place to either start a trip to France or end it.