Manoir de Gressy ★★★★

Pulling up to the stunning Manoir de Gressy**** I knew we’d got the right place; sat proudly in all its mansion grandeur it radiates an air of authentic charm. Encircled by flourishing floral gardens and boasting a quaint Italian courtyard, the 85-room resort, with its ivy coated façade, will instantly make you feel engulfed in a natural oasis.

Upon entering the enchanting hotel, you are transported to a different era; the wooden staircase, archaic rugs, and velvet furnishings evoke Belle Époque-esque luxury. Despite its enchanting passé characteristics, it is by no means old-fashioned in its ecology. The rustic resort is supplied by a non-polluting energy source, uses low-energy bulbs and seasonal produce, so you can indulge while be kind to the environment, too.

The magic continued as we entered our Classic Room; bright, and spacious, its refined décor is perfectly in-keeping with the Manoir de Gressy****’s unique theme. Opening the classic French doors, we sat on the flower-filled terrace and took in the Italian style garden, home to Virginia creeper and fragrant honeysuckle, where swallows nest. As the birds sang to the sound of the fountain trickling, a wave of calm washed over us, and we were soon lulled into the gentle pace of life at the enchanting resort.

A game of tennis prior to a dip in the heated pool got us working up an appetite. We were delighted to find the Manoir de Gressy****’s exclusive restaurant "Les Jardins du Cellier", which marries sumptuous aromas with gastronomic excellence and served the very finest French cuisine.

With satiated, full stomachs we ventured out of the hotel grounds and walked along the Canal de l’Ourcq’s banks, planning excitedly the next day’s activities…nearby Disneyland and a trip to Spa - parfait!