Guestbook of L'Etoile Guesthouse
Hello Philippe. For our first stay in Lozère, your guesthouse was perfect for our e-bike trip. We tried the suggested in-house routes: between 60 and 85 km with no issues, and we were able to recharge our bikes every evening. Your warm welcome, your good humor, the chestnut kirs, and those shared evening meals leave us with very fond memories that will definitely bring us back. Best regards. Andreys Stephane and Veronique
L'Etoile Guesthouse, created and run by Philippe Papadimitriou, is a rare place that will delight hikers seeking authenticity, well-being, and human warmth. I first came here by chance ten years ago on my way back from crossing Lozère, and I return every year for pleasure—and almost by tradition—even if it means a detour. The place is easy to reach; the La Bastide Saint-Laurent-les-Bains train station serves all stops to Nîmes or Clermont-Ferrand. Staying at L'Etoile means finding an atmosphere worthy of Stevenson's famous tale. The dining room, by the fire, is cheerful, and the meals are varied and generous. The ice is quickly broken thanks to the lively humor of Philippe, our host and cook. Generations mingle; we talk, we laugh, we set the world to rights! The food reflects the strong, generous, and straightforward personality of the owner. You eat great fresh produce. The management is sound: every euro earned is reinvested into improving the rooms and common areas. In just a few years, Philippe Papadimitriou, originally from Belgium, has successfully rehabilitated this beautiful 1920s building. The sober, coherent decoration elegantly uses black and white. The floors are beautiful light wood. The bedding is impeccable. The spaces are vast and clean. The beautifully arranged garden overlooks the Allier river, which keeps it cool. Lovers of authenticity, don't miss this experience! Bernard Patary
For a long time, I wanted to add the Cévennes to my list of hiking achievements! After consulting maps and taking advantage of the easing of the lockdown in mid-June, I took the train to Nîmes... and from there, a regional train took me to La Bastide-Puylaurent through fabulous landscapes. I stepped out of the station and almost immediately spotted this large white vessel on the road to Mende... L'Etoile guesthouse! I hadn't booked accommodation in advance... I rang the bell at the veranda door... a tall man greeted me with a smile and offered me a spacious, comfortable room with an en-suite bathroom overlooking the park. I had time to enjoy a Belgian beer on the terrace overlooking the Allier river. Dinner was hearty and shared with a few hikers; we had lovely exchanges about our itineraries. Philippe joined us at the table after serving, delighting us with anecdotes. A great breakfast was served buffet-style near a small fire in the large fireplace. I have very fond memories of this unexpected stop at L'Etoile, and I know I'll be back! Lalanne Christian
L'Etoile is a superb old building full of charm and authenticity where you quickly feel at home. The host welcomes his guests with warmth and humanity. The rooms are spacious and simple with all the necessary amenities for hikers. Dinner brings guests together, and the humorous host enlivens the meal with fascinating anecdotes. The dishes are well-prepared, healthy, and balanced, as are the picnic baskets. The excellent bread is homemade. This must-see place is a true asset for the town of La Bastide-Puylaurent. Patrick Berger
Highly recommended! Anyone hiking the Stevenson Trail should not miss this experience! The house and its host are exceptional. The house and garden are beautiful and offer plenty of space. Philippe is a wonderful host. The evening at the long communal table with all the hikers, the good food Philippe prepares, the warm fire, and the great conversations accompanied by improvised piano music will remain etched in our memories for a long time. Thank you very much!
L'Etoile is a charming place. We were looking to relax, and thanks to a friend, we discovered this warm and welcoming house where we spent a wonderful week. Immersed in nature, we returned home enchanted. When you enter through the large veranda, you are transported back to the 1930s. Philippe, the master of the place, continuously beautifies the property, and we loved his colorful personality. A large staircase leads to spacious, bright, and welcoming rooms. Every evening, we had the pleasure of seeing hikers from all over Europe, Australia, and Canada gather around the table, making for enriching evenings. Philippe would then arrive with his impressive soup tureen. Finally, coffee and verbena tea signaled bedtime. Philippe went out of his way to show us exceptional places, which we greatly appreciated. We highly recommend this place. Colette and Jean Paul
L'Etoile is not a luxury hotel but a lovely accommodation for hikers and guests looking to explore the surroundings. We were here for the fifth time and felt very comfortable once again: the warm welcome from the ever-helpful host, friendly interactions with other guests, a hearty five-course dinner, and the beautiful, wild Cévennes landscape. This time, we stayed in the small garden house (La Cabane), which was very relaxing. We brought our bikes, and the proximity of the train station allowed us to take some trips by train. Anonymous
This is my second stay in this aptly named guesthouse. Philippe, the host, is a warm and humorous man. His homemade cooking is generous, just like him. Dinner is shared, and conversations between hikers (from several countries) are rarely superficial, as everyone quickly feels at ease among friends. The rooms are bright and spacious. The building has fully retained its 1920s style. Surrounded by trees, it is just a short walk from the village and at the crossroads of many hiking trails. Anonymous
Hello Philippe. Coming from Le Puy-en-Velay in September, I stopped by your place. I have very fond memories of the welcome at your guesthouse, complete with a good local beer. There were many of us at a well-stocked table featuring great regional products. A great atmosphere, maintained by you, Philippe. I borrowed your guitar and played a few chords by the fire. A restorative night in a comfortable bed, followed by an energizing breakfast before heading to Villefort. I will certainly recommend your address to hiking friends passing through the area. Best regards, Jean-Yves
Back in our Berry region, we received the photos sent by Renee! We had a great stay in this magnificent house where Philippe puts his heart and soul! Thank you again for the meals, the great bread, the warm fire after a long day of hiking, and the laughter and encounters! Philippe, don’t change a thing; people will keep coming to savor the atmosphere you have created. It’s just a "see you later" and safe travels! Nanou
To Philippe of L'Etoile. Almost two months later, we look back on the week we spent at L'Etoile in La Bastide-Puylaurent. We came to hike and explore a region we didn't know. The countryside is truly superb. The accommodation could have been secondary, but we discovered a very special atmosphere here. What a welcome! The house is one to fall in love with. Philippe is both very welcoming and highly professional—smiling, serious, and full of humor. He transitions effortlessly from giving hiking advice to cooking, playing the piano, and baking amazing bread. Then there are the soups and fresh vegetables. Staying at your place is a true wonder. Best regards from Reunion and Flanders, Claudette and Michel
Dear Philippe, allow me to thank you once again for your hospitality. I will always cherish the wonderful memories of your warm welcome, the dinners and conversations around the large communal table, the warmth of the fire, the peace within and around your house, and the impressive landscapes of the Cévennes. I returned home to Bonn fully rested. I will definitely recommend your house to all my friends who love nature. Big hugs and best wishes. Ursula
For several years, we had planned a week of hiking on our own. While searching the internet, I found L'Etoile's website, which perfectly matched our needs, allowing us to do loop hikes from a fixed base. From the moment we arrived, Philippe made us feel at ease, showing us around and pointing out the fridge with good Belgian beers. Philippe provided us with numerous guidebooks and maps. We had a pleasant stay with beautiful hikes, especially in June with the blooming gorse. And what can we say about the delicious breakfasts with homemade jams and bread, or the hearty dinners by the fire! Thank you again for your warm welcome. Alain Dupont and Jean-Claude Giret
Philippe, I greatly appreciated my recent stay with you earlier this month. Thank you again for these two delightful days at L'Etoile, and I hope to visit you again in the future. Please also convey my gratitude to your young Chinese assistant for his help and efficiency. Tell him to contact me if he ever visits Scotland! See you soon. Frank Harkness, Selkirk, Scotland
Arriving at L'Etoile is like arriving at a friend's house. We were made comfortable right away. A warm welcome, as if I already knew the place. Philippe connects everyone, creating bonds. It feels good. It was a heartwarming moment during my summer wanderings. Thank you, Philippe, and keep it up! Françoise Monin
A spacious house, well-equipped, bright white, and comfortable. My daughter stopped at this beautiful guesthouse last year while doing the Regordane Trail. She told me I would feel good there. I am 83 years old, and I am enchanted by the unique atmosphere here. Hikers arrive with their heavy boots and backpacks. They are fascinating, simple, and happy. I listen to their stories with delight. The highlight is the evening meal; the soup is very popular. They sleep in perfectly equipped rooms and leave the next morning after a varied and plentiful breakfast. Françoise Durand
Dear Philippe, now that winter is approaching, it's time to add a few lines to your Guestbook and thank you once again for those exceptional days. In lives like ours, there is a constant shift between traveling and resting. Your place offered both: a shelter and a home. We stopped at L'Etoile three times during our journeys through the Cévennes. It is a shining star to remember! With Philippe as the ever-present, benevolent soul of the house, being a guest here was a pure joy. It remains a mystery how you manage to make every guest feel so welcome. May Philippe remain the heart of this unique universe in the mountains of southern France! We strongly advise anyone traveling to the Cévennes not to miss Philippe and his L'Etoile. Rosemarie and Bernd
Is L'Etoile a hotel? No! Is it a guesthouse? Not quite! It is a place of unique charm, a "secret" stop deep in the Cévennes. L'Etoile is an experience of simplicity and fluidity, just as Philippe, the host, intended. L'Etoile is like a family home that opens its doors to us in the summer. There is nothing sophisticated here; its charm comes from simple things. Like coming home after a long walk, opening the fridge, and grabbing a beer. The fire burning in the fireplace, the piano waiting to be played, the smell of baking bread, and the large tables where people share stories. When Philippe asked me to photograph our bed linen creations at L'Etoile, I gladly accepted. The spacious rooms and the summer light allowed for very natural photos. I wish L'Etoile continues to enlighten all who visit. Françoise Roux-Tarrieu
This former holiday hotel transformed into a guesthouse is a perfect conversion. Modernity and comfort haven't erased the past. For a hiker looking for a lodge, it’s a pleasant surprise. Philippe makes everyone feel comfortable right away. His spontaneity creates a friendly atmosphere. Whether you are alone or in a group, this is a place for listening and sharing. Meals are family-style and generous, and discussions flow freely, continuing in the evening with a cup of verbena tea by the glowing fireplace. The same fire greets you in the morning at breakfast. The smells of wood fire, coffee, and homemade bread are amazing. Bravo Philippe for the success of your business, and thank you for making us happy. Christian
Four hikers from Nantes crossing the path to L'Etoile in La Bastide-Puylaurent. Their stay here will definitely be one of their fondest vacation memories. In this charming hotel, they appreciated Philippe's hospitality... what a joy to toast with a good Belgian beer after a long walk! After trekking through endless landscapes, they shared their discoveries under the sunny veranda. At dinner time, they shared a hearty meal around a large table near the crackling fireplace. In the evening, sipping herbal tea, they were soothed by Philippe’s piano melodies. After a restorative sleep, they woke up to find Philippe already in the kitchen baking bread. With homemade sandwiches in their bags, they set off again to conquer the ridges of Lozère! Brigitte, Marie-Paule, Claude, and Paul Corbineau
My second stay at L'Etoile was once again very restful. I spent a pleasant week thanks to the welcoming, almost familial atmosphere. During the hikes, I recharged in a varied landscape. The well-marked trails and clear descriptions were very helpful. With Philippe's excellent sandwiches, hikers are well-equipped for the day. What a pleasure to return home to the smell of fresh bread and a hearty meal! We enjoyed listening to the piano or guitar played by Philippe or other guests. Thank you, Philippe! Uta
At L'Etoile, there is a very pleasant and welcoming atmosphere as soon as you enter. Philippe serves a hearty multi-course menu in the evening. Friendly conversations flow as platters of food are passed around. The relaxed atmosphere quickly creates conviviality, and guests share their hiking experiences. Everyone enjoys Philippe's freshly baked bread, the generous cheese platters, and the local wine. For digestion, herbal tea is served by the fireplace while listening to music. The hotel also provides precise descriptions of day-hikes. Anonymous
After several stages on the Stevenson Trail, we landed a few years ago at L'Etoile. We immediately felt at home. We have already been there 5 times and will undoubtedly return. Our favorite hike is the Regordane towards Villefort. We appreciate the calm, simplicity, generosity, warm hospitality, and great food. It's a real pleasure to meet guests from all over the world and exchange stories. Superfluous things have no place here. Until next time! Waltraut and Rolf Menne
Thank you again, Philippe, for the welcome, the good food, the good mood, the piano improvisations, and so much more. This little stay was a pure moment of happiness for us... We felt "at home." My friends returned enchanted and are already asking when we're going back! The drive back through the Ardèche was beautiful. Have a great summer, Philippe, and keep up the good work! Jocelyne
Hello to our host! Here is the impression from our small group: we have never felt as much at home as we did at L'Etoile. We never felt out of place, whether in the kitchen or the office; there's a true sense of freedom. It is wonderful to return from a hike and serve yourself a tea made from good local products. Bravo for keeping the early 20th-century aesthetic while making everything highly functional. Have a great end to the season! Andree Bensoussan
A Belgian-Greek (or perhaps a Greek-Belgian), a young Chinese assistant, Trappist beers, a piano, an old family hotel from the days when people came to cool off in the mountains, homemade bread every day, and sturdy hikers setting off with enthusiasm; this is what you can expect at "L'Etoile." Add to that the homemade soup, hearty sandwiches "for the road," and Philippe’s attentive presence, making this unique place a must-visit. Walkers, travelers, and dreamers from everywhere, welcome to L'Etoile! Marguerite Aflallo
Hello Philippe, we remember with great happiness our too-short visit to L'Etoile, and we want to thank you for your hospitality and the beautiful place you have created. We wish you the best and invite you to visit us if you ever come to Southern California—we have plenty of room, so feel free to call us! Judy & Don Nollar
A week-long stay. It was a risky bet for someone who loves walking but doesn't "hike." The weather forecast wasn't encouraging either. And yet, it was an amazing stay. You feel at home in this large house. There's no fake luxury, just a comfortable dining room, an old-fashioned staircase, the Allier river flowing nearby, thick grass, and coffee or tea generously offered by Philippe, the maestro of it all. My congratulations, Philippe, and thank you for all your attention. Yvette
Riding the Stevenson Trail by mountain bike from Langogne to Alès in 4 days, we spent two nights at L'Etoile. As a group of eleven, we chose the dormitory and appreciated the space and the sturdy wooden beds. Mountain bikers eat well, and we really enjoyed Philippe's hearty dishes. Most importantly, we appreciated his kindness and readiness to help. We were also able to safely leave our cars and trailer for 4 days and wash our bikes before leaving. We have very good memories of this stop. Thank you, Philippe. Cyrille Schwander
There are places that are hard to leave... where you carry the scent of warm bread with you... Places where you simply feel good. I just returned from L'Etoile after a week of hiking, creativity, and napping in the fields! Every morning the sun pierces through the windows, and every evening well-being and good humor meet. Thank you, Philippe, and to all the wonderful people I met. If the weather is nice, don’t hesitate to sleep in "the little cabin" by the river; you will fall asleep to the sound of water and wake up to the birds. Sandra Romont
Philippe and Olga, please accept my sincere thanks for these wonderful holidays. My wife Frances and I stayed at L'Etoile for 5 days while hiking the Stevenson Trail. It was a very pleasant stay in excellent company, with a caring host and his charming assistant. We loved every minute of our stay! Roger & Frances Phillips
It has been at least 7 years since my first stay at L'Etoile. I was with my beloved Piet, and I have such fond memories. We were doing a three-week hike on the Stevenson route and stayed two nights to recover. I remember your warm welcome, which truly inspired me. It showed me that it is possible to do something unique, entirely in one's own way. One must have incredible endurance, be creative, and be a nice person to maintain this lifestyle. I still cherish that encounter with you. I will surely return! Cecile
Dear Philippe, writing a message in your guestbook is the easiest thing in the world. I felt both as a guest and as a friend at your place. The days spent at L'Etoile were magnificent. Besides the splendid landscape, the atmosphere of the house, the friendliness, and the interesting conversations made this stay unforgettable. I hope to see you again. Michael Hattenbach
My teenage sons and I had three days before joining our adventure vacation in the Ardèche, so I searched online for a place to stay in the countryside. The quick response from L'Etoile assured me we had found the right place! The boys loved the healthy homemade food, served in generous portions. During dinner, we practiced our French while others practiced their English with us. Philippe has created an environment based on trust and respect where you can truly appreciate humanity. Highly recommended! Brian, Damien, and Aaron, London
Hello everyone. We stayed 4 days in August, and L'Etoile was a great base for several hikes. Philippe knows how to create conditions for dialogue where music and singing naturally follow a convivial meal. Philippe is a true entrepreneur with a gift for empathy; his guests quickly feel like residents of his home thanks to his directness and contagious joy for life. You impress us with your capacity for work and the efficiency with which you run your business. Thank you for an energizing stay on all levels. Michel and Christine Froissard
A few years ago, a film came out that I had unfortunately missed. I stumbled upon Philippe Papadimitriou's website while looking for accommodations. His site immediately fascinated me. When I arrived, I couldn’t believe my eyes: it looked exactly like the photos on his website! I usually don't eat soup because I don't like it, but I tried his and it was delicious! I particularly enjoyed the herb soup. The other dishes always incorporate a touch of his native Belgium, ending with original Belgian waffles. With great attention to detail, he takes care of his guests. I felt at home here and found my place of rest. I will definitely return. Karin Buczylowski
Hi Philippe, this is Michel from "Les Chemins du Vent." I will keep an unforgettable memory of this stay. The wild beauty of the Lozère and Ardèche landscapes was matched only by the atmosphere of the L'Etoile Lodge: the food, the human warmth, the music... everything was there. I hope to meet you again at L'Etoile while hiking the Stevenson trail. Thanks again and see you very soon. Michel
A few years ago, I was looking for a quiet spot to escape the tourist-filled lower Ardèche. The town hall recommended the "L'Etoile" lodge, run by the charming Philippe. Since then, every August, I return for the calm, the kindness of Philippe, his excellent cuisine, and his homemade bread. A good week at your place makes you forget the summer heat and hustle! Stay a long time in this Lozère, Philippe! Madame Rosiere
To take a break from my professional life, I embarked on a 2.5-month hiking trip across France. I arrived in September at La Bastide-Puylaurent. Mr. Papadimitriou warmly welcomed me; I took a large room and felt great. After dinner (half-board is highly recommended!), we sat by the fireplace, engaging in lively conversations with guests of different nationalities. The next morning, Mr. Papadimitriou drove me in his van to the GR®7 trail. I hope to return to La Bastide-Puylaurent one day and see Mr. Papadimitriou again! Frank Fischer
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