Auberge Ostape, near Bidarray, French Basque Country - Explore & Book

"In the rolling foothills of the Pyrenees looking out across the Nive valley, secreted away amongst a 45-hectare estate of meadows and forest, Ostapé’s location could scarcely be more Arcadian. Your return to nature begins right at the entrance of the estate, where you exchange your car for an electric golf buggy. Then you’re away, purring up hill to a group of traditional Navarrese buildings, which fan out around the original farmhouse. And the sublime surprises don’t stop coming. The first will be your suite, which will be regal in size and furnishings. Next comes the food - you’re in for a gourmet extravaganza - and lastly there’s the sheer beauty of the surrounding countryside, unsullied by the whine of car engines. Ostapé waves goodbye to the mundane, offers blissful respite for body and mind, and would be a great choice for one of life’s most special celebrations, such as a honeymoon or wedding anniversary. Highs Some of the best food in the south west of France, with service to match Superbly comfortable suites with everything you could wish for In spite of the remote mountain location you’re an easy drive from the Atlantic coast beaches Fabulous walking on little-known trails The serenity and beauty of this corner of the Basque Country is hard to match Lows A stay at Ostapé will make a sizeable dent in your bank balance If you want to eat out, you'll have to drive Having to motor about in your electric golf buggy could be less fun in wet weather Once you're here, you won't want to leave" - Guy Hunter Watts