A French Affair

We love a French escape. The food. The wine. The space. The sights and smells. It’s a feast for the senses and for the soul. Whatever you’re looking for, Further Afield has some stunning French partners. It’s time to say Bonjour les amis!

Into the Prairie, Brittany

This cluster of eight beautifully stylish houses in Brittany were created by Liz and Corentin, which they run as part of their farm. The houses recently appeared in The Times roundup of great French stays, in which they were described as having a “quirky Frenchness” and the writer raved about their wonderful interiors.

Each house has its own outside space and surrounding them is the verdant and lovely farm, full of friendly animals – perfect for entertaining younger members of the clan.
Breakfast can be arranged and the family also have a restaurant in nearby Plélo.
Find out more about Into the Prairie

Clos 1906, Bordeaux

Just outside of wine lovers’ Mecca, Saint-Émilion, this delightful guest house is a restful and tranquil base from which to explore this fantastic region. Yes there are vineyards and superb restaurants in abundance, but there’s also Bordeaux itself less than an hour away. It’s a city of enormous history and culture – check out this rather handy guide to exploring Bordeaux all made even better when you can return poolside after a day discovering.
Find out more about Clos 1906

Hotel Recamier, Paris

Described as a “Left Bank Gem” this boutique hotel in Paris is the kind of sleek, stylish and sophisticated haven that makes travelling a joy. With just 24 rooms the service reflects that sense of intimacy with a team which is welcoming and helpful.

This area of Paris is famous for its laid back and arty feel, with innumerable cafes and bars, art galleries and wonderful people watching opportunities on every Rue corner.
Find out more about Hotel Recamier

Manoir Laurette, Gironde

This is one of those places that seems almost to have fallen straight from the pages of beautiful interiors magazine. Every corner hosts a delight, with bright fabrics and eclectic furniture but without becoming chaotic, rather it feels beautifully put together. Lora and Rob (who you can read more about on our blog) have curated a really special place to stay which feels homely without taking away from that privacy and space we all crave at times.

One of the things that makes Manoir Laurette stand out is the wonderful Apple Barn Spa in the grounds. Book up a massage or yoga session before hopping into the wood fired hot tub for a relaxing soak. The stuff of holiday dreams.
Find out more about Manoir Laurette

La Grande Maison, Loire

One of the things we love most about this place (alongside its wonderful hosts Michaela and Sue, its extensive choice of wine tours and its general fabulousness) is the ease of getting here from the UK. Jump on a train to Paris (maybe have a night at the Recamier en route) and then take a train to Saumur from which you can be sat fireside or reclining on a lounger in just over an hour. It’s a truly hassle free way to reach one of our favourite retreats.
Find out more about La Grande Maison

Cuq en Terrasses, Toulouse

In a quiet hamlet in the heart of the Midi-Pyrenees, with historic and beautiful cities like Toulouse and Carcassone close by, this wonderful B&B with restaurant offers a fantastic blend of escapism and exploration. The garden, pool and the terrace with its incredible views are enough to get you to stay put the whole time – especially when you can simply book in for dinner too. But there is such much in the immediate and close vicinity that heading out is worth it!
Find out more about Cuq en Terrasses

Hotel Lou Calen

This stunning hotel in the heart of beautiful Cotignac, Provence, feels more like a hidden hamlet than a hotel. The rooms are spread across huge gardens and there’s a pool and restaurant on site.

Find out more about Hotel Lou Calen

Maison de Beaumont

Peter and Mark’s labour of love is a beautifully restored village house close to the centre of medieval Beaumont-du-Périgord. There’s this lovely pool, stylish rooms, local markets to explore, fabulous food and the opportunity to save 20% at Maison de Beaumont

Find out more about Maison de Beaumont

Check out all of our French partners