Hostellerie La Couleuvrine

Hostellerie La Couleuvrine Review

Sarlat is not overly blessed with beautiful historic hotels, so this one stands out—literally—thanks to its massive crenellated tower (an imposing structure that held off besieging forces during the Wars of Religion) and an interior that includes a magically medieval restaurant. Originally part of the town's ancient ramparts, the hotel is a short stroll from Sarlat's Cité Médiévale. Inside, the atmosphere is richest in the restaurant: a vast half-timber, 13th-century stone hall where the town council once presided. Even more delicious is the food, with dishes such as brick-pressed duck with coriander artichokes and fresh-fruit kebabs with Sauternes zabaglione. Guest rooms are simply but elegantly furnished; the showpiece is the tower room complete with a crenellated Cinerama view out the windows.