'This small hotel has considerable charm,' says its nominator. In a hamlet in the upper Aude valley, amid Cathare country, it is approached up a winding mountain road. Run by its owners, M and Mme Bruchet and their daughter, this Logis de France is liked for its 'traditional', perhaps 'rather old-fashioned' style. Creeper-clad, it is entered via a pretty terrace with a small pond. The restaurant is popular with locals for its 'very good', 'modern rustic' cooking. 'Many local dishes; an extensive wine list. Breakfast included fresh fruit salad and charcuterie. Service is friendly and helpful.' Rooms are individually, colourfully, decorated; 'good bathrooms'. 'Duc' here means 'owl' not 'duke'. (Bill Bennett)