The charismatic Chazal family own two hotels in Brioude. The Poste & Champanne is their 2 star with a very good restaurant on the main street of this pleasant market town. Most of its rooms are in annexes and could do with some updating.
The Sapinière is their pricier, 3 star accommodation, set in its own quiet garden a short uphill walk from the centre. It is worth paying the extra to stay in what is a relatively new building with an indoor pool, a jacuzzi and spacious, individually decorated rooms.
The restaurant has an equally good reputation as the Poste’s but perhaps the Sapinière lacks some of the infectious buzz of its sister establishment where locals enthuse noisily over chef Jean-Baptiste Halter's superb Auvergnat specialities. At either you may be offered Pan-fried foie gras with a pear compôte; Lotte with a magnificent Puy lentil sauce; or Boned quail with cèpes; plus one or two surprisingly generous touches that are the trade-mark of your warm-hearted hosts.
Let yourself be tempted by one of the regional wines that feature prominently on their well-researched carte – a chilled rosé from Corens is perfect on a summer’s evening. The Chazals have been hoteliers in Brioude since 1920. Long may the family tradition continue.