Palais Cardinal

St-Émilion


Run by the same family for five generations, this historic hotel from 1878 puts a little more thought into its dress sense than the other 'budget' hotels in St-Émilion. The heated pool is set in flower-filled gardens and framed by sections of the original medieval town-wall fortifications, dating from the 13th century. Its 24 rooms are comfortable and quietly elegant. Breakfast costs €14.50.

From May to November, it's well worth partaking of the gastronomic fare served at its restaurant (lunch/dinner menus €34/50).