This is the kind of place that comes to mind when you picture the French countryside of old: a stone courtyard, wildflowers growing freely, a beautiful pool that catches the perfect golden light in summer (you will want to snap a photo or two) and two lovely hosts, Tanur and Gilles.
The biggest decision you will face is whether to spend the afternoon by the pool or sipping café au lait in a nearby village. Not exactly a stressful day, if you ask us.
The Owners
Tanur and Gilles, who lived in Africa for many years, have truly made this place their own, and you feel it in every little detail. They live on-site and take care of everything themselves, yet it all seems effortless. Breakfast is laid out with care on beautiful French tableware that suits the spirit of the house. The best part? Everything flows naturally; you hardly notice how much work goes into making it feel so easy. If you can, catch them for a moment at breakfast when they aren’t busy pouring coffee. They know the region like the backs of their hands, love to share tips and, after their years in Africa, have plenty of stories to tell.
House & Rooms
The house dates from the 17th century and is still full of character. There are three rooms and three apartments for guests, each different and all thoughtfully put together. Our favorite is the Green Room, overlooking the pool and garden: spacious, with high ceilings and Mediterranean charm. You sense that the objects in the room have traveled, too, and many have, small things collected during the owners’ years abroad that feel right at home here.
We also liked the mix of spaces. The apartments are ideal for a more independent stay: picking up vegetables and cheese at the market, cooking something simple in your own kitchen and slipping into the slower rhythm of country life for a few days.
The shared living room has a small library with all sorts of books and magazines on fashion, travel and more. We especially loved it in the late afternoon, at goûter time, the French afternoon snack.
The Pool
Even so, the courtyard garden is the real showstopper: flowers everywhere, birdsong in the morning and that pool, peaceful and never overdone. If you do one thing, sit out there and do nothing at all.
Food
Breakfast is served in the courtyard or inside in the lounge and kitchen: warm croissants, good coffee, local jams (in France, jam is an art in itself), charcuterie, cheeses and delicious pastries.
For lunch and dinner, there are lovely restaurants in the surrounding villages; just ask Tanur or Gilles for tips.
While You’re Here
Drive to nearby Uzès for the Saturday market, full of fresh produce, local cheeses and handmade goods. The town itself is relaxed, a little elegant and very French.
Visit Lussan, a beautiful hilltop medieval village officially listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, with narrow cobbled lanes, stone houses and panoramic views of the countryside.
Another must is the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in France. You can walk across it, visit the museum or rent a kayak and paddle down the river.
Ideal for
Anyone who wants a few quiet days in a not-too-perfect setting, far from the posh, staged new châteaus of Provence: couples and families alike, with different room types for different needs, and above all those who enjoy slowing down. P.S.: Babies are welcome, too.
Prices
Doubles from around 145 euros per night, including breakfast.
Booking & Contact
Les Sardines aux Yeux Bleus
Hameau de Gattigues
30700 Aigaliers
France
WhatsApp: +33 6 15 14 27 81
All photos: © Nesrine of L’Escale Voyage
