Ferme-Château de Dourbes
Marie Jottrand
In the beginning was the farm, passed down from mother to daughter, from one generation to the next, since 1880. In 2000, Marie Jottrand converted some of the farm buildings into a large gîte with a multi-purpose hall in the former hay barn.
Next came “Haute Roche”, “Hellébore” and “Colchique”, three low-energy eco-gîtes, that are small cocoons for two or three guests with all the typical comfort of eco-buildings, and which show great respect for the original building.
As far as was possible, all the artisan builders used were locals. The timber window frames came from Mariembourg and the stone was worked by a mason from Viroinval. Local produce is served on the dining table. Guests often sample some Romerée beers on arrival. For events and business meetings, Marie works with local caterers.
Set amid a carefully preserved landscape, these eco-gîtes are havens of peace and serenity.
Ferme-Château de Dourbes
4, Rue auxiliaire, 5670 VIROINVAL
Province of Namur, Belgium
Tel: +32 2 347 57 35
www.dourbes.com
Labels : Access-I, 3 ears of corn
The timber window frames came from Mariembourg and the stone was worked by a mason from Viroinval. Local produce is served on the dining table.
Ferme-Château de Dourbes - entrance
Ferme-Château de Dourbes - exterior view
Ferme-Château de Dourbes - Lounge
Marie recommends: La Bonne Auberge
Located in the heart of Nismes, near Viroinval, La Bonne Auberge has smelled strongly of 'terroir' since 1960. The owner, Marianne, is in charge in the kitchen. She took over from her mother in 1987, and she aims to ensure the gastronomic delight of each her customers. With the greatest respect for tradition, she cooks old-fashioned recipes such as fried lamb’s tongue or pork fillet with thyme and honey. Add to these some revisited classics, such as the chef’s hamburger or beef kebabs with bacon or “la bouchée financière”, which adds veal sweetbreads to chicken and mushrooms. Of course, all these dishes are made with fresh local ingredients. Generous cooking, a short menu and guaranteed home-made.
Families are welcome, the décor changes with the seasons and festivals, just like at home. Conviviality. Authenticity. Eating well.
La Bonne Auberge
20, Rue Bassidaine, 5670 NISMES
Province of Namur, Belgium
Tel: +32 60 31 10 90
http://www.bonneauberge.be/
La Bonne Auberge - facade
La Bonne Auberge - pumpkins
La Bonne Auberge - main course
