THE STORY: In the mood for an artistic or contemplative retreat? Head to the Basque backcountry, where Célia Grabianski (a former event project manager at Hermès) celebrates creativity and craftsmanship at her bed & breakfast, Maison Gamboia. It’s the dream spot to find inspiration while doing everything or nothing at all, surrounded by collections of artworks exhibited year-round in the house’s dedicated spaces, while supporting the cultural program of the La Réciproque association – founded by the owner herself. Behind an impressive white facade with green shutters, six double or family bedrooms welcome you in with open sheets (oak parquet flooring, Blanc des Vosges linens, bouquets of fresh flowers), with views of the garden or the forest, unless you opt instead for the 25 m2 studio (a well-equipped kitchenette, a pull-out couch, a separate bathroom). On the ground floor, the common spaces are worth spending time in, starting with the dining room and its large tableclothed table, or for a taste of the house’s indoor-outdoor vibes, the immense estate includes an orchard and a vegetable patch. Double rooms starting at €135 a night, studio starting at €175. It’s also possible to rent out the entire estate.
TOILETRIES: Shampoo, soap and body wash from artisan producer Chloé Chlouzeau.
BREAKFAST: A local and organic breakfast is included in your stay, featuring hot drinks, apple juice from Xarnegu Sagarrak farm, bread and viennoiseries from the Ogi Bihia bakery in Hasparren, yogurt, milk and butter from the Esnekiak farm, Mamiño jams, homemade compote made using fruits from the orchard, homemade cookies and cakes…
LITTLE LUXURY: Stroll through the botanical garden, dotted with edible and medicinal plants – this is where great minds meet!
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