French development company Garrigae Investissements is midway through its plans to restore an 18th century chateau and create a luxury spa in the south of France. The Chateau de la Redorte Estate and Spa will be situated in the wine-making district of Minervois, within the Languedoc region.

The restoration will take place with the full involvement of the current owner, the Countess Dominique d’Artois, whose family has owned the property for seven generations, and who will remain in residence once the project is completed in 2010.

As well as a number of penthouse apartments, there will also be a Mediterranean Spa, accessed via a tunnel built in the 18th century.

Through a restored section of the original tunnel, guests will enter a secret garden, leading to the spa. It will have views over the Montagne Noir (Black Mountain) and feature outdoor hydropools, a sauna and relaxation areas. DETAILS: garrigae.com