Hôtel Barrière L'Hermitage La Baule ★★★★★

There’s a certain charm about a seaside town that can never be recreated – an intrinsic magic in the air that perpetually floats on the salty ocean breeze. So whilst on my travels through France, I felt the tides gently tugging me towards the rugged Atlantic coast, to the golden sands of La Baule in the Pays de la Loire region. Standing on the soft sand of the beach with the crashing waves behind me, I gazed up at my not so humble abode: the elegant palace that is the L’Hermitage Barrière.

The towering white façade, dotted with cherry red balconies and topped with old-style timber framed upper storeys, certainly leaves a remarkable first impression. At the very top, a large sign bears the hotel name in block capitals proudly, giving a warm welcome to all its treasured guests. The view inside was just as impressive: all soft colours and refined elegant furniture. My room continued in the stylish theme, splashed with hints of gold and cream, but I was captivated by what laid outside the sweeping window: I’d opted for a Sea View Superior Room offering a spectacular vista of the sands below.

It was time to head out into the magical air of the century-old seaside resort: days of creamy ice creams, leisurely strolls on the beach and visits to delicious crêperies were definitely in order…but I was reassured by the fact that on retreating to the hotel each day, no end of activities awaited. I made the most of the fitness room and bike hire in my more energetic moments, and lounged by the saltwater pools and in the sauna and hammam in times of utter relaxation. Moreover, there was no better way to end a day than a slap-up meal in the elegant atmosphere of La Terrasse restaurant, followed by a nightcap to the sound of tinkling piano in Les Évens bar. This is an establishment not just with a fantastic beachfront location but with so much more – so come and discover it for yourself.