Hotel Les Esclargies

The chic Hotel Les Esclargies in Rocamadour is my kind of hotel. Spending a fair amount of time in luxury hotels gives you an eye for what really matters and what is just ostentatious fluff. But what serves me best is an uncomplicated place of simplicity, with a certain amount of elegance, and a shedload of peace and quiet.

I have to say, that in its 3-star category, Hotel Les Esclargies scores 10/10 with me, and it’s all to do with a simple, unpretentious stylishness, where everything is dedicated to relaxation and well-being.

To begin with, is isn’t actually in Rocamadour, but in L’Hospitalet, on the plateau of the Causses du Quercy above the valley, and that guarantees much more peace and quiet, set, as it is, in an enclosed oak grove – typical of the region – in itself a splendid place to relax with a glass of chilled wine and a good book.

The design of the hotel is as simple as could be, using stone and wood in the construction that blend agreeably to enhance the feeling of warmth and hospitality.

The rooms are beautifully decorated to reflect the natural environment, and have views over oak trees, drystone walls and box hedging. Having stayed here a few times now, I can vouch for the comfort of the beds and furnishings, and the thoughtfulness of the room amenities.

From here it is a short walk to the upper station that feeds by funicular to the ecclesiastical level of Rocamadour; you don’t even have to take your car.

Although there is no restaurant – there are plenty of those nearby – there is a bright breakfast room in which a comprehensive buffet is served; on quiet, sunny mornings, it’s a delight to sit outside and have breakfast surrounded by trees, listening to bird-speak from the hedgerows, and taking in the heady scents of the garrigue that arise all around.

Clean, simple lines give the hotel a refined elegance, charm and character; a small, comfy lounge, internet access and reliable room WiFi, swimming pool, parking, not to mention friendly and attentive multi-lingual staff, make this the place to stay if visiting Rocamadour and this part of the Dordogne.

This is confident hotel provision, refined to its essentials, which are then burnished and refined to perfection and all wrapped up in a splendid location.