Sommelier in a restaurant in Lille, Jean-Marc won a Perrier contest on the luck of a draw. Off he tripped with his young wife and two children to a most emerald green valley and claimed a whitewashed, geranium-spilled, 18th-century country inn. Order a trout on the vine-covered terrace and back comes a live one in a bucket from their trout farm across the road by the river. Needless to say Jean-Marc’s exceptional wine list and creative use of local produce should lead to a prolonged stay (the nearby ramparts of Montreuil sur Mer are well worth a visit). Inside: wonky beams and low ceilings, a battery of copper pans behind the old zinc counter, deep green walls in the smaller dining room (our favourite), and all the cosiness of a modest country kitchen with open fires on chilly days. Bedrooms are snug, smallish and beamy, furnished with repro cherrywood antiques and refreshed with modern leather and wicker; bathrooms are spacious and airy. This may not be grand-chic but it’s an endearing address: an uncommon treat to find such good food combined with such perfect service.
We stayed at short notice for one night en route to the tunnel; our room was spotlessly clean, cosy and full of character. Dinner in front of an open fire was absolutely first class, and demonstrated just how good French cuisine can be. Not to mention the wines to accompany the food... It was the kind of meal and service you hope to receive for a special occasion - which is exactly what Laurence turned it into for us. We will be back!