Just a mere 30 minutes south-west from Dijon, tucked quietly into the Burgundy countryside, there’s a place we hadn’t expected to find. Papotte. From the outside, it’s clear this was once a working mill, with solid stone, simple lines and nothing showy. But step inside and you realise it doesn’t quite fit into any category. It’s not really a hotel, and not exactly a gîte either.
Papotte is a collection of four houses, each with its own identity. A place for those who care about design, seek out quiet corners, and value a certain sense of freedom when travelling.
The hosts
Although the two hosts Charles and Capucine prefer to remain in the background, they are always on hand. And right from the start in 2022 their philosophy was: Either we do it the way we want it or we don’t. That’s why it was no question to commission the upcoming Parisian studio Heju to design the houses. Charles says: “The way they treat white like a color, their ideas on curves and lines, as well as their sense of detail, matched our desire to make the houses timeless and vibrant in every way.”
The houses
The houses are simply named Deux, Quatre, Six, and Quinze, based on how many people they sleep, but each one has its own distinct character. Quatre feels like a Mediterranean home with soft tones and warm light that brings an immediate calm. Quinze is lively and playful, filled with pops of colour, quirky decorations, and unexpected details that make it fun and inviting.
Deux, the smallest, is cosy and bright, with a terrace opening onto a quiet river where the reeds sway gently in the breeze – the kind of place that makes you want to start your mornings barefoot with a coffee. Six stands out with striking design and a kitchen that feels made for cooking, especially in the morning. Every house comes with a Moccamaster coffee machine and excellent ground coffee, plus thoughtful touches like olive oil and a bottle of rosé balsamic vinegar from Olea Pia, a local favourite.
Kids & Dogs
Papotte has organized these two topics very professionally. Both children and dogs are allowed and are taken care of accordingly. Details such as a kids chairs and a crib are available upon request. On Wednesdays and Fridays between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. there is even childcare. On request, you can also leave your child with a nanny who will look after them during the evening. The options are detailed on the Papotte website.
The café
At the centre of everything, there’s a little café. It’s small, open only to guests, and honestly worth staying for. There’s no big setup. Someone hands you a proper coffee, oat milk by default, or a hot chocolate made with Plaq chocolate. You might find yourself in conversation with one of the owners, or another guest, or just sitting quietly flipping through a book.
There’s also a small épicerie, stocked with thoughtful things – pantry jars, sauces, a few wines, and even meals ready to heat if cooking feels like too much. There’s no fuss about it, just a clever system. If you don’t feel like going out for dinner, you ask for what you need, heat it up, and you’re set. Everything is portioned with care, whether you’re two people or a whole family.
Breakfast
In the morning, they serve breakfast for 15 euros. It’s nothing extravagant, just simple local products to start the day comfortably with delicious coffee and tartine, because in France it’s a must.
What makes it different
This place is truly well organised. When the weather is warm, everything shifts outdoors. There’s a small vegetable garden, which you’re free to use. A casual bar opens in the afternoons, serving natural wines and simple cocktails. You might also find a fishing rod by the pond, if that’s the kind of day you’re having. Charles & Capucine have even set up a category on their website for excursions, with a detailed map and description of the tour.
Papotte feels like a friend has handed you the keys to their beautifully designed home. You come and go as you please. Of course, it is also suitable for catalogue shootings or any other retreats.
The region
We find ourselves in Burgundy – that storied cradle of wine culture which hardly needs an introduction. A leisurely 25-minute drive whisks you into the heart of Meursault, a village that might just be the promised land for lovers of white wine. Among its jewels, Domaine Coche-Dury stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence. (Yet it was the discreet and quietly brilliant Arnaud Ente winery who stole the show. One of his 2009 bottles, once modestly priced at around €50, has since become a collector’s prize, now valued at over €2,000).
A little farther afield – just 35 minutes by car – lies one of the most revered names in viticulture: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. A pilgrimage destination for oenophiles.
For those, who want to dine in the area, Papotte has collected a selection of restaurants nearby – like La Ruchotte (only 5 Mins from Papotte).
Who it’s for
Papotte doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. It works whether you’re traveling solo and want to switch off, a couple looking for some peace, or a big family who needs space to cook and just hang out. It’s not about fancy stuff – no spa, no concierge. It’s a well organised place with a lot of options. When we left, we felt like we’d had a few days that were simple but special in a way that’s hard to find. That’s exactly why we’d go back.
Prices
3 nights from 650 euros in the smaller house (2 people). Three nights at le 6 for example are 1.300 euros (up to 6 people).
Booking & Contacts
Papotte
29 rue du Moulin
Papotte – 21360
Bligny-sur-Ouche
France
©All pictures: Ludovic Balay.
