This is the sort of place that comes to mind when you think of the French countryside as we knew it back in the days – with wild flowers growing freely, a beautiful pool that catches that perfect golden light in summer (you’ll probably want to snap a photo or two). And two lovely hosts – Tanur & Gilles.
The biggest decision you’ll face is whether to spend the afternoon by the pool or sipping café au lait in a nearby village. Not exactly a stressful kind of day, if you ask us.
The owners
Tanur and Gilles, who have lived in Africa before, have really made this place their own. You can feel it in every little detail. They live on-site and take care of everything themselves, but it’s done so effortlessly. Breakfast is laid out with care and served on beautiful, typical French tableware that just suits the whole vibe of the house. The best part? Everything just flows naturally here – you hardly notice how much work goes into making it feel this easy. If you can, try to grab a moment with them during breakfast when they’re not too busy serving coffee to other guests. They know the region like the back of their hand and are always happy to share some great insights. And with their fascinating experiences living in Africa, they’ve got plenty of stories to tell.
House & rooms
The house dates back to the 17th century and still holds so much character. There are three rooms and three apartments for guests – each one different, all put together with intention. The Green Room, which looks out over the pool and garden, is our favourite. It’s spacious, with high ceilings, and has that Mediterranean charm. You get the feeling that the objects in the room have travelled too – and many of them have. Small things collected during the owners’ life abroad that somehow feel right at home here.
We also liked that there’s a real mix of spaces. The apartments are ideal if you’re after a more local, independent stay – picking up vegetables and cheese at the market, cooking something simple in your own kitchen, and slipping into the slower rhythm of countryside life for a few days.
In the shared living room there is a small library with all sorts of books – fashion, travel, a bit of everything. We especially liked this space in the late afternoon, around the time for “le goûter.”
The pool
Even with all that, the garden is the real showstopper. Flowers everywhere, birdsong in the morning, and that pool – peaceful, never overdone. If you do one thing, make time to sit out there and do nothing at all.
Culinary
Breakfast is served in the courtyard or inside the lounge / kitchen – warm croissants, good coffee, a few local jams (because when in France, jam is an art in itself), charcuterie, cheeses, and delicious viennoiserie.
For lunch and dinner there are beautiful restaurants in the nearby villages. Just ask the owners for recommendations.
While you’re here
Take the car and head to nearby Uzès for the Saturday market. It’s full of fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods. The town itself has that real village feel – relaxed, a little elegant, and very French.
Visit Lussan – this is a beautiful medieval village on a hilltop, listed as one of “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”. Narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Another must-see is the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the best-preserved Roman monuments in France. You can walk across it, visit the museum nearby.
Ideal for
Anyone who wants a quiet few days in a not-too-perfect setting away from the poshness of the new staged Provence chateaus. Couples, families – there are different room types depending on what you need. But especially for those who enjoy letting things slow down a little. PS: You may also bring your baby.
Prices
Rooms from around €145 per night.
Booking & Contact
Les Sardines aux Yeux Bleus
Hameau de Gattigues
30700 AIGALIERS
Whatsapp: +33 615142781
All pictures: ©Nesrine from L’ Escale Voyage.
