L'Etoile Guesthouse in Lozere (France)

Open from 15/06 till 15/09

Ideal for a relaxing stay in the freshness. Half-board, stopover for hikers or extended stays in resorts

Former Hotel of the 30s on the edge of the Allier river, L'Etoile Guest house is located at 1000 meters elevation in La Bastide-Puylaurent, between Lozere, Ardeche and Cevennes, in the mountains of the South of France

L'Etoile Guest house created and run by Philippe Papadimitriou, is, let's say from the outset, a rare place that can only appeal to hikers or guests in search of coolness (1000m), uniqueness, well-being, nature, and a holiday atmosphere reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. I came here for the first time by chance, ten years ago, on my way back from crossing Lozere, and I have been coming back every year since then, out of pleasure and almost out of tradition, even if it means making a detour. The place is not inaccessible; La Bastide Saint-Laurent-les-Bains train station serves all stops to Nimes or Clermont-Ferrand.

Getting off at the Etoile is to find an atmosphere worthy of the stories of Stevenson's famous trip with a donkey. The table d'hôte, by the fireside, in a large bright room is cheerful, very well stocked, varied. The ice is quickly broken, thanks to the earthy humor of "Philippe", host and cook. Generations intertwine; we talk, we laugh, we remake the world! The cuisine is all in the image of the strong personality, generous and frank, of the boss! We eat good fresh produce. The management of the premises is sound: the euro earned is reinvested in improving the rooms and common areas.

Thus, in a few years, Philippe Papadimitriou, who came from Belgium, will have succeeded in rehabilitating a beautiful building from the twenties (1926), heritage of this commune of the Cevennes. The sober, coherent decoration elegantly declines the black and white. The floors are in beautiful light wood. The bedding is impeccable. The spaces are large, and clean. You can opt for the room with bathroom or without bathroom; spotless showers are then available upstairs. The nicely landscaped garden overlooks the Allier, which refreshes it. Lovers of authenticity, do not miss this experience! Bernard patary

L'Etoile Bedrooms and guests table - Information & contact - Tarifs - Former resort hotel from the 30s - Impressions and testimonials of stays - Diaporama

Hiking loops - Bicycle loops - Meet our friend Philippe Papadimitriou - International Innkeepers Exchange

L'Etoile Guest house, 48250 La Bastide-Puylaurent, Lozere, France. Tel.: 06 83 99 70 86, papadimitriou4@gmail.com