Rustic stones to chandeliers - the breadth of dog-friendly hotels in France
It’s not always been easy to take your four-legged-friend on holiday. Historically, dog friendly places to stay have been bland, lacking character or aren’t really dog-friendly at all. In our collection of dog-friendly hotels, France comes out top with its diverse range of stunningly designed hotels that welcome your dog with as much warmth as they welcome you. Here’s a few that run from quiet old stone buildings to sophisticated châteaux, to get the tail wagging in anticipation.
Grand Hôtel d, des Bains, Finistère
This waterside hotel on the north Brittany coast has always been close to our hearts, with sea views from almost every room, superb design throughout and balconies looking out to Locquirec for one of the finest views we’ve ever woken up to. The garden leads down to the beach, where dogs can run free and cool off in the water. Plus, there’s a treatment spa, sauna, hammam and gym to spoil yourself too. Head off one way down the coastal path to the Pink Granite Coast and the other to the Wild Coast then head back for a tipple at sunset and tasty seafood dinners.
Le Château de l’Abbaye, Vendée
There are bowls and treats, with leashes to borrow if you’ve forgotten your own, so you know the dog will be well looked after, but that’s only a tiny part of the joy of staying here. The 12th-century abbey has been given some delicate modern touches, like massive corner baths in old stone rooms, but retains a timeless charm. Wonders are worked in the kitchen, so despite the chance to pop into La Rochelle or over to Île de Ré, you could easily stay put for cocktails and dinner, followed by a stroll of the acres of parkland. This is a place that effortlessly combines French elegance and cuisine with laid-back family warmth.
La Cour de Rémi, Pas-de-Calais
With its scented garden, homemade jams, paintings on the walls and spectacular views, this rustic hotel is a brilliant dog-friendly mountain retreat. First to greet you at the farmhouse are the sounds of birdsong and rushing water, then the scent of orange or cherry blossom. All around you are gorgeous antiques and sun-filled terraces, plus views of the mountains and beyond. Enjoy homemade treats outside when it’s sunny, or in the dining room on cooler days. The river at the foot of the garden is a great spot for wild swimming, and the whole area is filled with walking trails for all levels. Collioure and the Côte Vermeille is full of little creeks to go and cool off the dog on a hot summer’s day.
Hôtel Castel Brando, Corsica
Off the stunning Cap Corse in the centre of pocket-sized Erbalunga – with its cute seafront square strewn with well-worn fishing boats – is this graceful 19th century hotel. Lounge in generous, light-filled rooms, read or have a drink in the exotic garden and pretty courtyard and work off all the rich Corsican food in the spa and swimming pools. The bedrooms are spacious enough to sit in and each overlooks the gardens or town – the best have mountain and sea views. Dogs will be in total heaven here, with lots of walk straight from the door. A four-hour round trip hike up Monte Stello rewards with panoramic island views and offers opportunities for a cooling dip to boot.
Vive la France
This article is part of Vive la France, the home of inspiring itineraries and stories from travel writers and our team, to help you plan your next French adventure.
Written by
Ella Perryman
Ella has a great eye for telling a story in a full article or a single picture. Marshall only has eyes for anyone who’ll give him a scratch or a biscuit. He’s also partial to a wander in the woods and days spent digging in the sand. Together, they’re a coastal adventure dream team who love heading back to Ella’s Devon roots or exploring the rugged fringes of Wales.
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