Ostapé
France: Aquitaine: Bidarray
The Basque Country, situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenées mountains, is home to the newest creation of the world famous chef Alain Ducasse. Newly opened this property is comprised of 120 acres of meadows and woods leading to the Nive River. The atmosphere is pastoral, a great place to escape the pressures of city life. There are multiple buildings on the estate, including the master farmhouse dating to the 18th century. The accommodations consist primarily of suites and duplexes - there is only one room. All suites are very spacious (460 - 700 sq. ft.) with antiques and contemporary furnishings - all rooms are different and some have fireplaces - and feature silk or linen fabrics, and rustic tiles or wooden plank floors. Rooms are disbursed in five typical Basque villas throughout the property. Given the stature of Alain Ducasse in the culinary world, there is - of course - a wonderful restaurant - and bar - featuring refined and traditional cuisine of Navarre, using the freshest local ingredients of the estate. One of the dining rooms, in the former kitchen of the house, can welcome guests at a "table d'hôte" with a beautiful fireplace. In summer, meals can also be served on the terrace overlooking the pool. Facilities include acre upon acre for nature walks, hiking, picnics, horseback riding, trout fishing, cooking classes, a fitness center, heated swimming pool, Turkish bath, sauna and a boutique.