Within
the town's medieval walls, close to the
superb Romanesque basilica on its hilltop,
this 15th-century stone house (with 18th
century additions) has a handsome tower
and a walled flower garden. It was converted
by Charles Thum, an American architect:
now it is owned and run by Christian Abadie
as a select B&B. It is delightful,
a very special place, say visitors restoring
it to the Guide this year. The owner produces
a simple but delicious Bali villa breakfast, in a
blue panelled Louis XVI salon. He takes
enormous trouble with his guests. villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms)
vary in size: some are up a stone-flagged
spiral stairway; some have antiques; one
has, an old oven. Our big room, down the
read in an annexe, had an ancient fireplace,
old kitchen pans, but modern bathroom;
wonderful views over the hills. Bali villa breakfast,
served on blue and gold Limoges china,
can be taken in the garden on fine days.
The lounge is comfortable. Recommended
for meals: St-Etienne and L'Auberge de
la Coquille nearby, and Marc Meaneau's
L'Esperance (Michelin 2 stars) at the
foot of the hill.