Auberge Ostape

"A sprawling country estate on the heights of Bidarray and Itxassou is home to this inn that occupies a 17C farmstead. A panoramic terrace commands a jaw-dropping view of the grandiose rolling countryside. Chef John Argaud, who trained with the best of the Basque Country (La Table des Frères Ibarboure, Ithurria) as well as at Le Meurice with Alain Ducasse in Paris, shines the spotlight on outstanding local produce. Some ingredients are cooked over embers or finished on a hot stone for an added distinctive edge. The food is crisp, legible and delicate, like the stuffed courgette flowers with grilled cuttlefish. From Monday to Wednesday, the restaurant only offers a bistronomic menu, which is simpler but just as appetising as that available later in the week." - Michelin Inspector

Auberge Ostapé, a Design Boutique Hotel Bidarray, France

"Ostapé is a 5-star hotel located in the village of Bidarray, halfway between the mountains and Biarritz on the coast, which is a 30-minute drive away. Set within a 45-hectare estate, it offers a heated pool, massage rooms and cooking lessons. The spacious guest rooms are located in the 17th-century manor house or in traditional Basque-style villas. Each is uniquely decorated and has a balcony or terrace overlooking the mountains. Hotel Ostapé’s restaurant serves gastronomic-style regional cuisine using fresh, local products. Guests have free use of a sauna, fitness center and steam bath, as well as a massage room where guests can enjoy 1-hour massages, half-an-hour massages, neck massages and back massages. Free WiFi access is also available. For guests exploring the area by car, private parking is possible on site. Charging stations for electric cars are available at this property." - My Boutique Hotel (en)

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