Beauty is not always subjective or skin deep. Sometimes it is actually set in stone – literally in the case of the utterly delightful Le Clos Saint Saourde.
For this 18th century building was painstakingly hewn out of the rock of the mountain, the result of which is that some areas and rooms have not walls to hold them in but the actual rock itself.
The effect is a luminous quality that is as unique as it is stunning (and almost beyond description, but we’ll give it a try). It may as well have a “do not disturb” sign on the outside for everything is geared to providing an antidote to stress.
The natural spring, the giant Platane, the square courtyard, those stone walls we’ve mentioned, the surrounding vineyards and the exceptional view of the Dentelles de Montmirail all work together to seduce guests with its authenticity and serenity and little touches of magic.
All rooms (three suites and two doubles) are ample and decorated to a superb level of comfort, despite the seeming simplicity, and open out on to the square courtyard and its pond, across the never ending grapevines, whilst the Romanesque cathedral and the Sasso Barisano are also within view) and are kept naturally cool by the rock.
In winter, the under floor heating discreetly diffuses heat through the Beaulieu rocks, as well as fireplaces in two of the suites and in the large guest living room make the Clos Saint Saourde cosy and serene even during the most inclement of weather.

If you do go in the warmer months, however, do try the breakfast under the tree or the edge of the beautiful salt water swimming pool: perfection indeed.
Also available is “La Grange” an independent house available for up to 8 people in 4 double bedrooms with its own private swimming pool.