I’ve lived in this house since my childhood. After years spent away from it—first in Montpellier for my studies, then in Paris where I worked as a journalist in the art market—returning felt inevitable, as if it were the obvious choice. This change in life slowly gave rise to a project: breathing new life into this family home. In 2019, the idea of welcoming guests took shape, naturally continuing the convent’s history. More than just a house, it is a living legacy, which I have chosen to share with those seeking peace and tranquillity.
The house is distinguished by light and stone, its two defining features. Very open to the outside, with large windows throughout, it captures every shift in the light and generously diffuses it. Built from local blue stone, it asserts a strong identity, deeply rooted in its landscape. During its renovation, I was keen to preserve this material whilst opening up the spaces: on the ground floor, the living rooms, reception areas and breakfast room flow into one another in an almost seamless continuity. The stone arches and high ceilings enhance this sense of space and light. Photo credit: Mikhael Pijoubert
In 1873, the inhabitants of Millau built a chapel here dedicated to Our Lady of La Salette. A few decades later, between 1890 and 1895, a convent adjoining the chapel was built to house the postulancy of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa, known as the “White Sisters”, founded by Marie Salomé. Young women stayed there before setting off on their missions, mainly to Africa. The religious presence, though fervent, was short-lived: in 1903, the sisters left the premises amid a climate of anti-clerical policies. The building was acquired by successive private owners, including my parents in 1970. Since then, the property has kept up a discreet continuity, perpetuating a form of hospitality faithful to its original purpose.
I offer my guests a timeless retreat, dedicated to well-being and tranquillity. Upon arrival, a sense of profound calm takes hold, as if you have been removed from the world. In the former cellars of the convent, a space measuring nearly 300 m² houses a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, swim spa, massage room and floatation tank. Everything here invites you to slow down: reading, silence, meditation, relaxation. No hustle and bustle, no pretence, just an unspoilt atmosphere, true to the spirit of the place. The convent is a haven of serenity and rejuvenation, continuing its original purpose.
“Le Sahuc”, a venue run by a passionate young chef and his wife. In Millau, “Umami” and “Les Potes au Feu” also offer excellent dining experiences. Millau is still the discreet capital of glove-making, with Maison Fabre, Maison Causse and the Atelier du Gantier. Nestled in the heart of the Larzac plateau, La Couvertoirade, a medieval Templar town, fortified and listed as one of the “most beautiful villages in France”, where a 1000 years of history await you. The spectacular landscapes of the Gorges du Tarn and the Gorges de la Dourbie, or the unmissable Millau Viaduct. A land of nature, the Aveyron is ideal for outdoor activities: canoeing, kayaking, paragliding or via ferrata. Just a stone’s throw away, Roc & Canyon offers you the possibility to explore all of these possibilities.
The convent has four bedrooms, each approximately 40 m², located on the first floor, one of which can accommodate two adults and a child. On the second floor, two spacious suites are set beneath a wooden roof structure. Each bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom. The ground floor is dedicated to the shared living spaces: a double lounge, dining room and meeting room. In the basement, a 300 m² wellness area features a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, swim spa, massage room and floatation tank. The property is equipped with electric vehicle charging points.
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