Le Relais des Gourmands

The food was generally very good, with an interesting selection, though a couple of things struck me as odd. The presentation looked lovely, as in the pictures. Service started off a bit slowly but soon picked up and stayed great through lunch. It was an unexpectedly fine dining restaurant, with a hotel attached if you want to stay the night.

It was tough to choose among the five or six options for each course on the €40 "menu délice". I also love that there's a little gastronomic menu for kids under 12. They brought canapés and amuse-bouches for all three of us, and the staff were so friendly and helpful. We really enjoyed our evening meal and hope to get back before our holiday ends.

Gramat worked really well as a base for exploring this lovely part of the Dordogne/Lot, and the hotel also helps arrange onward baggage transfer for long-distance walkers on the "pilgrimage" route. The area has stunning villages and countryside to discover. There's ample parking just outside. The hotel is near the local railway station, but don't be put off by that, trains are infrequent and quiet. After a day out, we could relax by the garden and lovely swimming pool, with plenty of sun loungers. Pool towels can be borrowed for €2. There's also a pleasant sitting area by the hotel, surrounded by flowers and roses. We stayed for three nights, and the whole family made us feel so welcome. Susan, Marine and Julien were superb hosts, and we're looking forward to coming back. The hotel has been family-run for over 40 years, with comfort, hospitality and delicious food clearly at the heart of it. Our modern, contemporary room was nicely furnished, with plenty of wardrobe space, a secure safe and a very comfortable king-size bed. The spacious shower room was excellent and well designed. Dinner is popular with locals, so book ahead even if you're staying at the hotel. There are two menus: the Menu du Jour is €26 for three courses, with two choices per course, and was excellent. The three-course “gourmet” menu costs €40 and offers four or five choices for each course. It was outstanding quality and value. You won't find better in any restaurant.

It's usually full, so it's better to book a few days ahead. In summer, the terrace is lovely. One of the region's best restaurants, with excellent ingredients prepared with real care.