Lots of history to soak up in this 500-year-old mas, long ago a silkworm farm and later for sheep. Beautiful apartments sit around the higgledy-piggledy roofed courtyard, sharing a pool for guests and several garden areas next to the owners’ house (where dogs and chickens roam). Kate and Graham’s thoughtful restorations and extras for guests are spot on – find ancient stone walls, an iPad loaded with information and a welcome app, bikes to borrow. A vaulted barn is now La Bergerie, with white stone ceilings sweeping over simply styled spaces, and a secure terrace perfect for guests with a small pet. Open steps lead up to Le Grenier, formerly a grain store, sleeping four in sleek bedrooms under ancient beams, and Le Murier, where silkworms once spun their magic in the tower. Just right for honeymooners, who can look over lavender to medieval Lussan. A short walk up the road leads to the village, one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France with a programme of events in the summer. So much to do – visit Uzès, hike in the Cévennes, taste wines and visit Roman ruins including the extraordinary Pont du Gard.
