Dog-friendly hotels

Far from the madding crowd, this sublime corner of the Cotentin peninsula boasts ten rooms, all with stunning views over the sea.  At low tide, explore with your dog rock pools and the soft mauve, green and golden colours of the varech, the rich local algae. This remote place is both wild and sophisticated, the cuisine modern, high-end and creative. Inspired by his contacts with local producers, Henrik, your chef, brings a contemporary touch to his cooking, while retaining the basic qualities of French cuisine : fish, vegetables, wild herbs and even flowers.

This former hunting lodge hides deep in the Andaines Forest near Bagnoles-de-l’Orne, next to a golf course and natural thermal springs. Michelin-starred Chef Franck Quinton and his sister Stéphanie Lebailly have thought long and hard about how to best cater for city dwellers in search of peace and quiet. The bedrooms are of the highest standard, sunbeds are to hand at the pool, and then there is Franck’s marvellous cuisine.  His cooking has earned him many awards and throughout the year, the Manor proposes cookery lessons, mushroom foraging, picnics and wine tastings with resident sommelier Yvon.

Situated between Deauville and Honfleur, the simplicity of the Manoir de la Poterie belies its excellence. Surrounded by a magnificent garden boasting apple trees and agapanthus in bloom, this hotel is timber-framed in the local Augeron style, and its gardens are decked with hammocks and everything to help you unwind and relax, enjoying outdoor cooking, marvellous views over the Bay of the Seine, and perfect service to hand at all times.

Just about as 18th century and classical a property as you could wish for! This chateau likes to tell the story of when the Empress Elisabeth of Austria spent the summer of 1875 here. It gives onto a huge park, just outside the little village of Sassetot-le-Mauconduit. The 11 hectares of grounds make their contribution to your perfect repose, and a bucolic setting to enjoy this historic house. A stay here is the perfect opportunity to dream and live the life that once echoed through such a great house of character and seductive charm! Nearby are the beaches of Les Petites Dalles, Fécamp and Etretat.

Tucked away in the heartland of Impressionism, a stone’s throw from the Château-Gaillard, this beautiful former flour mill is quite a sight in its island setting, with its blue timbering, flint and stone chessboard ‘diaper’ work and decorative turrets. Enjoy dining by candlelight while looking down at the river flowing past by your feet. The outdoor swimming pool is well-hidden on a little island… happiness indeed!