Château d’Etxauz

St. Etienne de Baïgorry is in that glorious part of the Basque country at the base of the Pyrénées alongside the River Nive. With its many timbered homes, the village is rich in character and tradition. On its outskirts, in complete contrast to the timbered village, sits the absolutely regal Château d’Etxauz, dramatic with its four corner turrets. The château dates from the 11th and 16th centuries and is truly a historical monument—staying here gives guests the opportunity to “live” history. The bedchambers, each recently renovated are large, well-lit and enjoy modern bathrooms. All decorated for an historical character and period, the guestrooms are all luxuriously appointed and incredible in their historical details. The Bertrand d’Etchauz has a handsome four poster bed. The King Navarre suite has a lovely but standard-size bedroom, but an enormous living room where the king used to hold court when he was in residence. One guestroom is named in honor of a more contemporary, distinguished guest—Charlie Chaplin. While the bedchambers are spectacular, my favorite room is the dining room where a handsome hutch takes up an entire wall opposite a large open fireplace and a beautiful trestle table runs the length of the room in between. A grandfather clock takes command of one corner of the room and copper pots cover the walls.