Madame is happy to serve breakfast until two o’clock; in this haven, she’s used to guests oversleeping! The very old house, at the end of a short avenue, sits solidly around two sides of a square below the brow of a hill sheltered by trees; you overlook the sleepy Romanesque village of Haux and its church. Here live three generations: delightful Madame, her two grandchildren, and her sprightly mother – along with horses, a donkey and two cats. Thick walls ensure you won’t hear a sound, and you share the living room and the library. Furnishings are traditional, of good quality and character, with touches of marquetry and chintz; books, paintings, magazines abound. There are two spacious bedrooms to choose from, one off the garden, one off the landing (invitingly furnished with books and rattan chairs). Bathrooms are carpeted and generous, with marble basins. As for the garden, it is more of a ‘parc joli’. Take a picnic to the stream, swim in the shaded (unheated) pool. For a simple lunch, stroll to the village bar; for shops, restaurants and market, discover Créon. Lovely.
Our visit was at the end of a ten day road trip around Bordeaux and the Gironde. Domaine l’Esplette was a wonderful way to round off our journey. Madame, who led three generations of family members in welcoming us, made us completely at home. The house is elegant, filled with many beautiful family heirlooms. The breakfasts were outstanding. Our room was very comfortable. Thanks to the family’s recommendations we were able to eat two truly memorable meals, one at Branne on the Dordogne, and one at Cadillac, overlooking the Garonne. We are grateful to Madame and her family for her kindness.