Auberge du Paradis

TELL YOUR FRIENDS you’re staying at Auberge du Paradis in the village of Saint-Amour and they’ll probably think you dreamt it up. But this aptly-named auberge is a little gem well worth making tracks for.

The seven-roomed Auberge du Paradis is a stylish little address at the heart of Burgundian wine country where heart-shaped room keys and spicy room names (will your stay in Paprika be a hot one?) are matched with excellent cooking and home comforts.

Huge, immaculate and individually decorated rooms offer the max in comfort, with wide beds, fat pillows, fine linens and luxurious bathrooms. Creams and whites with the odd splash of scarlet make for easy-on-the-eye surrounds, and the owners’ antique market finds are juxtaposed with sleek modern pieces. Bathroom walls have been swept away, leaving clawfoot bathtubs and swish double basins standing unfettered near the beds.

Burgundian gastronomy

Most rooms overlook the village square, with one (Tandoori) having its own terrace and vineyard views at the back and another (Réglisse) being built into the eaves.

Breakfast at Auberge du Paradis is well worth getting up for: everything here from preserves to yoghurts (try the tangy lemon curd) is deliciously home made. What’s more you can enjoy it outside on the shady terrace, with views of the pretty Burgundy countryside beyond.

If you enjoyed your breakfast, you’ll relish dinner at the inn even more. Menus feature some of the pillars of Burgundian gastronomy (try the marinaded Charolais beef) as well as innovative newer creations laced with oriental spices. Dishes are naturally matched by some of the region’s stellar wines.

Saint Amour is a great place for getting to know local wines, and the region heaves with wine growers and vine-covered slopes. If you’re out to do some serious tasting (and you’re spoilt for choice here), the owners will recommend the best cellars to start your quest – starting in the main street.

© Room for Romance