THE FACTS ABOUT CUQ EN TERRASSES

France

This 18th-century hotel is in Le Pays de Cocagne, the area around Toulouse, Carcassonne and Albi that became famous in the 16th-century for producing a natural blue dye sold as little round balls (cocagnes). From its position in a hilltop hamlet there are wonderful views of the countryside and the hotel's terraced gardens and large pool. Weather permitting, guests sit outside to enjoy meals prepared by Greek chef Andonis Vassalos, who runs the hotel with his partner Philippe Galice. Vassalos shops daily at markets such as Revel but often gives the local produce a Greek twist. The décor is rustic, homely, occasionally haphazard, with terracotta flagstones, exposed beams and seven bedrooms of varying appeal. The best is the Terra Cotta room, a small double with steps leading down to the bathroom, and Lauragais, with its swathes of blue Toile de Jouy fabric. CONTACT Cuq en Terrasses, Cuq-Toulza, near Castres (00 33 5 63 82 54 00; www.cuqenterrasses.com). Doubles from 95 euros; breakfast 12 euros; five-course dinner 34 euros. Closed November to March HOW TO GET THERE Fly to Toulouse with easyJet (0905 821 0905; www.easyjet.com), British Airways or bmi baby (0871 224 0224; www.bmibaby.com), or go by train. The hotel is 45 minutes from the airport