Expect the full medieval experience at the extraordinary Château de Trigance. But thankfully there’s none of that daft dressing up, those unfunny jesters and the diabolical middle-ages food which is often deemed appropriate for punters in similarly historic buildings.
Until the 1960s, all that remained of the 9th century castle were a few broken down walls, much of the stone having been plundered for buildings in the village below. The Thomas family who soon after took over the restoration have somehow managed to create an ambience where all that medieval history - and mystery - sits comfortably alongside today’s creature comforts. The dining room is sited in the massively vaulted armoury - awesomely dark, perhaps, but then what are candles for? The spotless accommodations have half-tester beds, tapestries and ‘feudal’ fabrics. From the château’s hill-top eyrie, the views from all but one of the rooms are of the village or over the verdant valley that stretches far into the distance.
Needless to say, North American visitors adore all this medieval character. We Europeans are always a bit more sceptical but, given favourable weather, few will resist the magic of breakfast outside on the battlements. Couple this with excellent cuisine, super value and a friendly welcome from the second generation of Thomases and you have a splendid base for exploring the equally impressive Gorges du Verdon. Children will never forget it.