Hotel La Deviniere

An intimate B&B-cum-salon de thé at the heart of the old town of St Jean de Luz

This solid maison bourgeoise first saw the light in the 18th century in the days when St Jean de Luz was becoming a fashionable seaside resort. La Devinière takes its name from a house dreamed up by the novelist Rabelais. Think enjoyment of the most epicurean kind so where better to pick one of its 11 charming rooms.

A collection of erotic prints, masses of naïve paintings, a festive pick-and-mixing of antique rugs, occasional walnut tables, a grand piano, a huge library and numerous vases of flowers create a mood which is both whimsical and elegant. There's a balanced serenity within. Out front the pedestrian street makes you feel a part of the town whilst to the rear, a walled garden provides a peaceful enclave. There’s no tv, iPod dock nor permanently manned reception. Instead expect oodles of warmth and charm and that delicious sense of being somewhere that the 21st century has passed by. Thank goodness these places still exist.

Highs

• Masses of TLC has been lavished on the 11 bedrooms which are characterful, comfortable and quiet
• The family at the helm of La Devinière – Bernard, Marie-France, Pascal, Béatrice - are prepared to go that extra mile to ensure you enjoy your stay
• St Jean de Luz is deservedly popular as a holiday destination, with a lovely sweep of beach and a fascinating historical centre
• You’re in the French Basque country so expect to eat really well

Lows

• There’s no off-street parking but you can drive to within 50m of La Devinière, where someone can guide you to a good parking spot
• The layout of the house means that you may be aware of the comings and goings of other guests