Le Vieux Castillon ★★★★

Driving through the beautiful Languedoc-Roussillon countryside in the south of France, on our way to the village of Castillon du Gard, the five of us had already fallen head over heels for the region. I had invited my parents along to celebrate our daughter’s birthday, and we were all delighted with our surprise. Her smile stretched from ear to ear!

The medieval village of Castillon du Gard can only be described as magical. Perched on the hillside, it looks out over the Gorges du Gardon and the surrounding countryside. You will find narrow cobbled streets, ancient fortifications and gorgeous old stone buildings, typical of the south of France. It is historical, tranquil and picturesque, and situated between Uzès, Nimes and Avignon, making it the ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. 

We soon arrived at the Vieux Castillon hotel, which is just as gorgeously authentic as the rest of the village. Here, the air is filled with the delights of the south. Among the stone walls, I could see terraces and patios on varying levels, sheltered by cypress and olive trees.

We stepped inside and were greeted in a pleasant and professional manner at reception. Of the thirty-six bedrooms at the Vieux Castillon, some are decorated in a traditional Provençal style and others are more contemporary. My husband, daughter and I had chosen the Junior Suite, and my parents had a double room to themselves. Our suite was just perfect for the three of us, decorated in a refined and modern style that complements the traditional architecture perfectly. I looked out of the window and found a calming view of the patio. This is an establishment that seems to breathe tranquillity.

We spent the rest of the afternoon beside the swimming pool, and I booked us into the hotel restaurant for supper in the evening. My daughter wanted to look nice for her special day so we went to the bedroom to get ready. For once, my husband was ready before me and he took the opportunity to prepare another birthday surprise. The hotel restaurant is very pretty, with exposed beams on the ceiling, stone walls and gorgeous views. The food is wonderful too, offering fine local specialities made using delicious fresh produce. When the pudding came, my daughter’s birthday wish came true. We’ll definitely remember this birthday forever. 

After this fabulous family meal, we all retired contentedly to our rooms. The following day, we were up early for an excellent buffet breakfast and a lovely walk. We strolled through the village then continued into the countryside among vines and olive trees. Afterwards, we went back to the hotel restaurant for a delicious lunch. The following day our daughter was in for yet another surprise: the Sweet Museum in Uzès, fifteen minutes from the hotel.

It was a magical family trip and we’ll cherish our memories forever.