A charming little hotel in a jewel of a medieval village that sits below a spectacular Knights Templar castle.
The oldest building in its square is the 16th century chapter house which has been receiving guests for the last 25 years, courtesy of Monsieur and Madame Cheyroux. The original architectural features (mullioned windows, gargoyles etc) have been carefully preserved and the suitably rustic accommodations are tastefully decorated in an intimate, home-from-home style. Three of the rooms are up a spiral stone staircase in the house opposite; they have all been recently renovated but do ask for one with a view of the countryside. The remainder in the hotel itself are more spacious (one has a generous terrace) and are next in line for a revamp.
Breakfast and dinner are taken in the vaulted former wine cellar. There are only seven tables and the ambience is delightful thanks to an eclectic collection of paintings, prints, pottery and lamps. In fine weather, everything decamps to the pretty courtyard, shaded by vines and scented in season by honeysuckle. Claude Cheyroux’s admirable cuisine is based on the freshest local ingredients so make sure you reserve your table at the same time as booking your room.
The Maison de Chanoines runs like clockwork in that relaxed, genuinely hospitable way that only true professionals seem able to achieve. Sympathique Madame Cheyroux makes people very welcome.