LA MAISON DU PASSAGE

A few miles to the west of Uzès, nestled into a hillside that shields it from the mistral winds, is the picturesque village of Martignargues, a settlement with thousands of years of history. It’s here, at the foot of the Cévennes mountain range, that you’ll find La Maison du Passage, a thoroughly tranquil and exceedingly characterful bed and breakfast set right on the little village square.

Its most unique feature might be its rooftop terrace, with a commanding view of the countryside — this part of the house was once a watchtower. And its rooms, all different, are lovingly hand-crafted, each one with an evocative name: Head in the Stars, the Guards’ Secrets, Butterfly Dreams, the Warrior’s Rest, a Lost Paradise. In each one, old stone walls mix freely with modern furniture and eclectic decoration.

As a bed and breakfast, it’s not meant to provide resort-style services; there is, however, a small spa, with a rooftop jacuzzi and an infrared sauna, and massages are available as well. A generous breakfast is provided, and then it’s out into the sunny countryside for the day; lunch can be arranged, as well as dinner on the terrace, when the season permits.