This story is pretty old now, and I’ve stayed in some fantastic places in Normandy since.
This will always be my favourite though, I think:
Château de Saint Paterne, Saint Paterne
This fairytale hotel on the outskirts of Alençon was once a bolthole for King Henry IV of France, who conducted his dangerous liaisons here. These days it’s the stylish abode of owner Charles-Henry de Valbray, a chef and cookery book author, who treats his guests to sumptuous meals in the surroundings of the luxurious candelabra-filled dining room before they retreat to one of the ten rooms. Each boasts decor that is fit for a king. Outside, take a dip in the heated pool or stroll around the 2.5-hectare park that surrounds the château. See their website here
I’ll add some more of my favourites soon! Watch this space…