Le Vieux Castillon

Nestled in the narrow streets of the perched medieval village Castillon du Gard, on the western fringe of Provence, this elegant historic luxury hotel makes a pleasant base for exploring the region. Situated near the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a Unesco World Heritage site, the Vieux Castillon is installed in a cluster of beautifully renovated Renaissance houses, with exposed beams, tall wooden doors and impeccably groomed gardens and patios.

The 29 rooms and three suites are cozy Provençal rustic in style: stone walls, hand-painted furniture and Provençal boutis (traditional hand-quilted bedspreads, here in floral prints). The Michelin one-star restaurant, run by chef Bernard Roth, serves traditional Provençal dishes along with contemporary fare. There's also a sizeable sauna, and the swimming pool, walled on one side by a medieval ruin, offers a superb view of the countryside. An attentive staff gives guests a warm welcome. €180 single room low season-€360 suite high season (prices for 2008).

10 rue Turion Sabatier, 30210 Castillon du Gard, website

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