Hostellerie l’Imaginaire ★★★★

Imaginary time is a new dimension, at right angles to ordinary, real time. - Stephen Hawking

Imagine a town with two identities, split down the middle by the Vézère River. On one bank, the new, modern town spreads its feelers into the surrounding Périgord countryside. On the other, the old town, built on a hill, firmly anchored, no room for further growth. A monastery, constructed at the height of the Middle Ages, was once the hub of this bubbling community. The monks themselves built the first mill, the first dyke, the first bridge, bringing travellers, nourishment and prosperity to the town that is known today as Terrasson-Lavilledieu.  

Everything you can imagine is real. - Pablo Picasso

Imagine an imposing cut-stone building in pastel shades of pink and salmon with a thick, protective slate roof. A building that once provided shelter and care for weary travellers, ailing soldiers and tired pilgrims. A large round clock stands sentry, reminding you what time it is in the real world, should you get lost in your imagination. Under the clock, a patio invites you to daydream in the shade of one of its large, creamy white parasols. Just across the street, botanical gardens tell a horticultural tale of man’s existence since the Roman period in Les Jardins de l’Imaginaire.

The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury. - Charlie Chaplin

Imagine seven heavenly rooms with oak, hardwood floors, apparent stone walls, cosy fireplaces and so many pillows and cushions, you won’t know what to do with them. Imagine a serene colour-scheme of muted whites, soft greys and subdued pastels. Imagine diving under the fluffy duvet, luxuriating in the high-quality bedding as you drift off for some highly restorative slumber. Lose yourself in the vast marble bathrooms with terracotta-tiled walk-in showers or bathtubs big enough for the whole family. And if your imagination fails you in this tranquil setting, turn on the wide-screen TV, hook yourself up to the Wi-Fi and let modern technology do the imagining for you.

If your mind is hungry, give it food for thought – Anonymous

Imagine a meal that will make your mouth water in anticipation and your mind rejoice in its memory. Imagine regional culinary treasures, such as foie gras and truffles, as they generously share the limelight with fresh local produce in your plate. No need to imagine the awards, their presence is felt from the moment you set foot in the striking dining room to the moment your coffee is served at the end of the meal. Chef Vincent Laval, who took over the restaurant in 2012, prepares creative, refined and colourful meals that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Let your tastebuds be surprised by his innovative recipes and inventive techniques. His brigade of talented cooks and attentive wait staff will make you feel like royalty as you savour your epic meal.

You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will be as one. - John Lennon

The Hostellerie l’Imaginaire is perhaps not the answer to world peace but it may just help you find inner peace. Now that your imagination has had time to conjure up images of this peaceful, quiet haven, come see it with your own eyes. You won’t be disappointed.


* Please find below the 6 course menu proposed by the hotel's gourmet restaurant: