Prieuré de Las Canals 

Tucked away in a steep little valley, La Prieure de las Canals is a real hidden gem. The priory dates from medieval time, but was rebuilt around 1720 after a fire. The building is solidly constructed, with stone vaulted ceilings on the ground floor and wooden beams everywhere. Our family room - 'Grand Duc' - had a huge bed, plus an antechamber with another double, plus a day bed. The whole place was eccentrically furnished with antiques, stuffed animals and religious relics. The grounds occupy the whole valley, including secluded arbors and a large swimming pool. When we arrived the place was buzzing with a wedding party spilling out into the gardens, but our hosts were still happy to offer us a meal table d'hôtel. This was an utter delight, complete with wonderful canapés including trout from the stream in the grounds, followed by simple but delicious regional fare. The gratin au dauphinois was a triumph, albeit a somewhat calorific one! What made this meal special was the conversation with our hosts and the other diners. Sat around a long table, as the wine flowed we chatted in a mixture of French and English about everything from the weather, to what temperature wine should be served, to horse racing (our hosts own a horse that finished fourth in a recent Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe). Not the cheapest overnight stop, but one that will live long in the memory!