Bel Air Maison d'hôtes des Landes

This traditional Landes house dates from 1829 and belongs to Christophe’s family – look out for the old family photographs that give a fascinating glimpse into their history.

Sylvie serves a huge continental breakfast, either on the terrace or in the dining room: fresh smoothies, a variety of breads, jams, local organic cereals and yogurts, fresh fruit and a local speciality brioche called the Pastis Landais. Lunch and dinners can be arranged if you ask ahead, and are equally good. Settle next to the fire in the sitting room with a book, or swim in the pool.

Although there are neighbours it’s very quiet – roe deer sometimes venture onto the lawn in the evening to nibble at the grass. Stay here as a stopover if you’re driving between northern France and Spain, or linger for a few days – there are lovely beaches a 20-minute drive away, as is Dax, a historic spa town with a lively market on Saturdays – Christophe is always happy to advise on things to see or do.