Le Jardin des Plumes

I have a strange relationship with Paris: however much I love to escape the noise and the pressure of daily life in the city, I am always content to return. But, this past weekend, I was in need of a getaway. I packed my bags, grabbed my equally vacation-desperate partner, and we made a bid for freedom. It didn’t take long, because happiness is never far away: just an hour from Paris, Le Jardin des Plumes remains a luxurious secret in the heart of the Normandy countryside.

Here, we discovered a little bit of paradise. The principal manor house is settled comfortably among its unpretentious but immaculately maintained gardens, with a garden seasoned with ancient trees and a small pond. It appears laidback and homely, almost simple; but for Eric Guérin, the chef-turned-hotelier who fell in love with the estate a year ago, happiness isn’t complicated.

The interior is luxurious, with accents of Art Deco. Eric’s mother, Michèle, designed the interiors, and created a warm, charming atmosphere conducive to romance and relaxation. The restaurant is simply stunning: with light streaming in from vast windows, and a splash of peacock blue on one wall making a bold contrast to the cool neutrals, there is a profound emphasis on nature and its beauty. This is a guiding principle for the Guérin family and their team; it was Eric’s father who gave him a passion for the natural world from a young age, a value he brings to his cuisine with his use of fresh, natural produce.

The attention to detail paid to the interiors is reflected in the polite, accommodating staff. The whole team under Guérin’s professional supervision were unfailingly friendly and efficient, taking every care to ensure our dining experience at the hotel’s signature restaurant was a delight. After a drink on the patio, the only sounds being the rustle of leaves and the occasional quack of a complacent duck, we retreated to a table in the light-filled dining room, where we sampled chef Albert Riera’s gastronomic artistry. Albert Riera and Eric had previously worked together at the Michelin-starred La Mare aux Oiseaux, and their friendship and culinary expertise has resulted in a delicious and delightful dining experience in their latest venture.

Unsurprisingly, the same care has been taken to ensure the eight rooms are as cosy and comfortable as the rest of the house. With dark walls and rich, rosewood furniture, our room was intimate and luxurious, even boasting a Murano glass chandelier above our large bed. The bathroom was immaculately clean, contemporary in design, with an enormous free-standing bath. After mopping up every drop of indulgent white chocolate ice cream, we strolled across the gardens sated and content, to return to our sumptuous and exclusive bedroom in the annexe.

Small in size but big in atmosphere, the hotel has a laidback, peaceful ambiance, perfect for a country getaway with friends or a loved one. This time, I wasn’t too content to return to the city after my idyllic retreat; but, I know, just one hour away, I’ll certainly be back to Le Jardin des Plumes.