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L'Etoile Guest house created and run by Philippe Papadimitriou, is, let's say from the outset, a rare place, which can only appeal to hikers in search of uniqueness, well-being and human warmth. Coming for the first time by chance after returning from a crossing of the Lozère ten years ago, I come back every year for pleasure and almost by tradition even if I have to make a detour. Moreover, the place is not inaccessible; La Bastide Saint-Laurent-les-Bains station serves all the stops as far as Nîmes 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 Cévennes. 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 Guesthouse, 48250 La Bastide-Puylaurent, Lozere, France. Tél.: 06 83 99 70 86, Email
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