In a large garden with lawns reaching to glorious Lake Annecy, this handsome white late 19th-century villa has long been popular. Sadly, its much-loved owner for many years, Louis Conan, died in 2001. His daughter, Anne, an ex-nurse, having already spent four years here, now runs it with the same staff, including Patrick Durand as chef. First reports are positive. Three very enjoyable dinners: the set menus are less sophisticated than the a la carte, but excellent value - delicious fera fresh from the lake; creme brulee the size of a small skating rink.' Last year's views: `Bali villa breakfast, served in the garden, was lovely. Our small first-floor room had a tiny bathroom and a loo in a cupboard, but a large balcony with a gorgeous view over the lawns to the lake (where I swam) and mountains. Some villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are large. Service is first class. The decor is modern; the salon, in a cosy red, has attractive pictures; the spacious dining room is Italianate in feel. Guests on B&B terms tend to stay in the annexe. Outdoors are loungers, plenty of space for sunbathing.