Manoir de Mathan

Elegantly built from local limestone, with stone staircases and classical gables, this manor hasn’t changed outwardly since it was the home of the 17th century de Mathan family. Drive through the baroque arch and crunch up the drive for drinks under a parasol on the terrace. The gardens are made up of lawns, mature trees and a lily pond. Have a look for the ancient bread oven and apple cider press.

The 21 bedrooms (some in the outbuildings and converted barns, some suitable for wheelchair users) have been sympathetically revived. Expect four-poster beds, oak beams, original fireplaces. Bathrooms are big, most have tubs. Breakfast is a generous buffet of bacon, eggs, patisserie, cheese, fruit salad, freshly squeezed juice.

Stroll into nearby Crépon, there’s a church and café. Explore Bayeux and the landing beaches (you’re only two miles from the coast). Then head back to relax, read a book, think about where you’ll have supper.