Being a spokesperson for French tourism, I often get asked where’s best to stay that is something ‘out of the ordinary’, somewhere special.
Of course I get asked a lot about places in Paris. I often try to sneakily divert their interest to more undiscovered regions of France (it is a big country after all!) however if they insist then I have no problem recommending, in my opinion, one of the chicest hotel in Paris, Hôtel du Petit Moulin.
Housed in what was the oldest bakery in Paris, this boutique hotel in the 3th arrondissement is to be found nestled in a clutch of quirky shops, cafes and bars.
Designed by Christian Lacroix, the inside of the hotel is a fun mix of old and new, colour, surrealism and polka dots, all wrapped up in the most au courant aesthetics (of course, darling!). Rooms are around £300 per night.
Another place I consider to be just as chic, albeit with considerably less mod cons, is the Belrepayre Airstream & Retro Trailer Park. Of course you’ll have to share my love for Airstreams to fully appreciate this place; situated in the heart of the Cathare country in Belrepayre is where you’ll find your very own one, equipped with, well not a lot really. But it’s an Airstream!
The surrounding area offers plenty to see, with many 9th-12th century castles to visit, and with loads of opportunities to go hiking, swimming, horse riding, cycling and canoeing, this would be the perfect spot for an active getaway with a twist. Prices start from around £300 per week.
Lastly (for this post at least) I strongly recommend visiting Groundhouse, a unique ecological home in the heart of Brittany. It offers beautifully designed ‘guilt-free’ living, and was in fact featured on Grand Designs and selected by Kevin McCloud as one of his top five all time favourite designs. Prices from £600 per week and sleeps up to 6.
So, which one will you go for, and have you slept anywhere exceptional in France?
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