Meet Your Host, Gaby
Gaby Martin, your host at La Flânerie
My Steps in Provence: A Decade of Resource and Discovery
Like most meaningful relationships, my journey to La Flânerie began with compelling curiosity. The connection was revealed layer by layer in Uzès and its surrounding region, with its strong heritage and rich culinary culture.
After years of all-season visits and a deepening appreciation, my commitment formed: to make this place my home. Here, my background in Interior Architecture and the values I championed while serving on the Slow Food committee in London could breathe and find expression in quiet moments.
When I discovered this artist's house in the heart of Euzet-les-Bains, I immediately felt a friendly draw and recognised its potential as a canvas for my creative journey. The undercroft space with its cocooning vaulted limestone structure promised to become the vaulted sanctuary that guests now enjoy. As an advocate for adaptive re-use in architecture, I saw how this historic building could be thoughtfully transformed while honouring its 17th-century soul.
Hands-On Restoration
With my background in Interior Architecture, I approached this redesign as a respectful steward rather than an imposing outsider. The restoration became a genuine apprenticeship as I worked alongside local artisans, the University of YouTube, and specialist manuals.
In so doing, my French vocabulary developed naturally a distinct bias toward esoteric construction terms!
This blend of formal education, artisanal wisdom, and resourceful self-teaching allowed the building's soul to guide our decisions, creating a space that honours both history and modern comfort.
Detail Concept Sketch March 2025
In progress - Restoration of an original door.
Every decision balanced historical authenticity with modern comfort. The natural properties of the thick stone walls were preserved and enhanced, creating a sustainable approach to summer comfort without heavy reliance on air conditioning.
Finding Beauty in Imperfection
Found objects tell stories no new object could. Such discoveries guide our restoration philosophy throughout.
My approach to La Flânerie embraces Wabi-Sabi—the Japanese philosophy that celebrates the beauty in imperfection. Rather than hiding the marks of time in this 17th-century house, I've highlighted them while ensuring modern comfort.
You'll notice this throughout your stay—in the character of limestone walls, the gentle curves of ancient surfaces, and the thoughtful balance of old and new. It's about creating a space that feels authentic and lived-in, not sterile or overly perfect.
This philosophy encourages slowing down and noticing the small details that make a space feel special, exactly what a vacation in Southern France should offer.
Sharing La Flânerie
For over eight years now, I've had the privilege of welcoming guests to La Flânerie. Having worked in elite hospitality in London and with a solid WSET Wine & Spirit Education Trust wine certification, I take particular joy in helping visitors discover the exceptional food and wine culture that makes this region so special.
Though I primarily make the property available to guests during peak seasons, I treasure my own time here during the quieter months, particularly the golden light of October and the fresh beginnings of spring. The climate is so delightful that even Boxing Day lunch can be enjoyed al fresco! ☀️👙🎄
THE HOSPITALITY DIFFERENCE
My background in premium hospitality in London has shaped how I welcome guests to La Flânerie.
Basket with yoga props at guests' disposal.
True luxury lies in thoughtful details and anticipating needs before they arise. From carefully selected linens to a curated guidebook of local recommendations, I've applied the principles of exceptional hospitality to create an experience that feels both sophisticated and warmly personal. Whether it's suggesting a special vineyard tour or ensuring your kitchen has the perfect tools for preparing market-fresh finds, my goal is to enhance your stay while allowing you to discover the region at your own relaxed pace.
When you stay at La Flânerie, you're experiencing a space that has been thoughtfully curated by someone who truly loves this region and has dedicated themselves to preserving its authentic character while ensuring your absolute comfort.
My downtime, swimming wild at Pont des Abarinnes in Mialet — one of many local secrets I love sharing with guests looking to experience authentic Cévennes.