Hotel Restaurant Le Bellevue

Le Bellevue is housed in a 19th-century villa built by the director of the Opéra Comique of the time, and still bears plenty of its original period features, such as traditional carved wood fixtures and furnishings (though combined with some more modern and less attractive additions). There is a small-town ambience to the hotel, with a cozy and quiet atmosphere during the day that extends to a secluded garden and manicured lawns overlooking the sea -- close enough to catch the odd pleasant whiff of briny breeze. The hotel is very much centered on its well-known and popular restaurant, meaning evenings are abuzz with both locals and guests enjoying its locally inspired dishes in intimate surrounds.

The hotel is located down a small lane in the quiet village of Villerville, which overlooks the Seine Estuary in northern France. Situated just off the main road connecting Deauville and Honfleur, it offers easy access to both of these popular tourist destinations (both around 10 to 15 minutes by car). The village itself is pleasant enough to stroll around, though there are no beaches within walking distance, and most of the area's tourists attractions are only accessible by car (there's little or no public transport). The D-Day beaches are all about one hour to 90 minutes away by car, and the hotel is about one hour from both Rouen and Bayeux, with its medieval buildings. The stunning island compound, Mont-St-Michel, is two hours away.

Most of the hotel's 26 rooms occupy the more recently built section of the property, and decor is largely a modern take on traditional styling. The four suites are all located in the historical part of the property and are styled in more classical fashion with antique furnishings, though brightened with colorful fabrics and modern art. Free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs come as standard, though in-room refreshment is lacking with no hot drink facilities or minibar. All the suites, and many of the rooms extend to furnished balconies or terraces, often with sea views. Although a little plain in parts, rooms are all very well maintained with excellent cleanliness.

The hotel's main highlight is its excellent restaurant, which specializes in fresh and locally sourced seafood. Some tables offer partial sea views, however the restaurant is popular with locals so booking is recommended. Drinks can also be taken on to the garden terrace in warmer months, or in the hotel's cozy bar in front of a log fire. There's little in the way of health facilities on-site, though a partnership with the local tennis club next door means tennis courts are free for guests. Wi-Fi is also free throughout the property and on-site parking is also free of charge.