Hotel le Manoir Saint Michel

On a hillside overlooking wide white sands and wild coves is a sturdy stone ‘manoir’ 400-years-old with a long and varied history. Ducks wander the peaceful gardens, there’s a small lake stocked with fish, wooden loungers dot the lawns and there are fine sea views from every angle. Inside, fresh flowers pretty up the reception and Monsieur and Madame greet you warmly: your hosts could not be nicer. Bedrooms vary in size and shape, not luxurious but comfortable and cosy, some traditional with floral fabrics and patterned carpets, others more contemporary. Bathrooms are spotless and small. Exposed stone walls add rusticity, antique armoires add character and there are 20 rooms to choose from so let the website guide you. Some are in the converted stables, some have sea views, some are on the ground floor. Take a ferry between St Malo and Dinard, visit the ancient, unspoilt Château de la Hunaudaye, come home to cakes and tea by the great log fire, and walk to dinner (take a torch!). Breakfasts are to die for: homemade croissants, yogurts and jams: Monsieur was once a pâtissier.