Le Domaine d’Ablon

Modeled after a traditional Norman village, this intimate countryside retreat combines classic French elegance with exceptional service.

• The restored 16^th-century cottage, which has a kitchen, fireplace and lawn
• Bulgari products in each of the room’s spacious bathrooms
• The property’s elegant Norman design

Opened in late 2015, Le Domaine d’Ablon is located just ten minutes outside of Honfleur yet remains delightfully tucked away from the crowds of Normandy. With only three suites, the hotel is ideal for travelers in search of a quiet, low-key atmosphere. In fact, each morning guests wake up to near silence with only the sounds of roosters crowing in the distance.

Visitors can walk the outline of the property in 20 minutes, likely followed by one of the resident cats along the way, and each turn reveals another beautiful, idyllic scene. With wisteria-lined, stately Norman-style buildings, the setting is straight from a fairy tale: there is a small, aromatic herb garden where the chef picks fresh ingredients for every meal; a stable home to a pony; and a small orchard where two intimidating geese reside.

Two of Le Domaine’s suites are housed in one building, and both are accessed by exterior staircases (a traditional Norman design). The ‘Small Suite’ boasts crisp white décor, punctuated by pops of teal and sky blue colors, plus a large bathroom with a blue-tiled floor. The ‘Large Suite’ features similar blue and green hues, a rustic living area and a bathroom with a standalone tub. The two suites can connect, making them an ideal choice for families.

The charming, 16^th-century restored cottage is the only accommodation at the hotel that retains its original two-story structure, and has two bedrooms, a kitchen and dining area. Those staying in this suite enjoy a cozy living room with a fireplace and television (with a large collection of DVDs), plus a private lawn and dining area where private dinners or barbecues can be arranged. With low-beamed ceilings, however, the cottage may be uncomfortable for taller visitors, and the staircase is rather steep and poorly lit, so families with young children should consider booking the other rooms.

While on property, guests have the choice of spending their days exploring the grounds, bicycling in the neighborhood and enjoying the library (the only public space at the hotel). While there is no restaurant, the staff can arrange for private dining (which must be booked in advance). The charming town of Honfleur is ten minutes away by car and is home to some great dining options including Le Bréard (restaurant-lebreard.com) or **L'Ecailleur **(www.lecailleur.fr).

Le Domaine D’Ablon is the passion project of the owner, Christophe Delaune. Since the family-run hotel hosts fewer than ten guests at a time, the attentive, friendly staff members get to know each visitor and welcome them as close friends. Mr. Delaune has high hopes for Le Domaine, and future plans include additional cottages, a spa, fitness center, restaurant and pool. These new additions will surely be impressive, especially considering each cottage requires eighteen months to build in order to retain its original elements (such as thatched roofs with irises planted on top).

Couples and families seeking a quiet countryside escape that’s easily accessible from the sites of Normandy will be happy here. Le Domaine d’Ablon is best for those who appreciate a warm, family-run atmosphere as opposed to formal, white-glove service (such as that of La Ferme Saint Simeon, Hotel du Normandy Barrière or Hotel du Royal Barrière, which all have a larger staff.)