You could almost do with a guide to hand, to steer you round the passageways, narrow stairs and twists and turns of this intriguing 16th-century building – once three fishermen’s houses and a salt warehouse. Each of the bedrooms has its own decorative style – romantic, nautical, Baltimore, country; the attention to detail is exquisite. Imagine dreamy fabrics, limewashed walls, elegant omelettes on white china, cushions on painted wicker, toys and chairs for children and a booklet for each guest on the treasures of Honfleur. Sample gourmet food in the hotel’s new restaurant with blazing log fire in winter, or delicious home-made scones for afternoon tea. Breakfast is laid out in a red-walled room with views to the big square and the church of Sainte Catherine; on Saturdays, the food market leaps into action. Relax in the salon, spoil yourself in the spa or the (free) hammam, self-cater in the delicious Petite Maison. No lift – that would spoil the charm – and a car park a few minutes’ walk away, but staff will happily ferry bags to the upper floors. A total gem.
