Clos de Bellefontaine

The best B&B in historic Bayeux, with just 2 bedrooms, an elegant salon and a warm French welcome

Calm and charm are the keynotes of this lovely 19th-century maison de maitre 10 minutes walk from Bayeux’ famous tapestry. The guest wing has just 2 antique-furnished rooms: a sumptuous double in stylish white, and a pretty twin that snuggles under the eaves on the floor above. Common rooms are even more generous, including a large chocolate and white sitting room with fine carved fireplaces, a grand entrance hall, and an elegant dining room where owner Carole Mallet serves her celebrated breakfasts.

In summer you can sit out on the south-facing terrace overlooking the vast and verdant garden. Having regaled yourself with home-made apple tart, fresh fruits, local cheeses and a host of other goodies, it’s an easy stroll into the centre of this historic stone town, made famous by William the Conqueror’s half brother Odo who commissioned the tapestry to decorate his newly built cathedral.

Highs

• Carole and Jerome will do anything to make you feel comfy, from offering you a cup of tea or lighting a fire in the evening to booking restaurants or D-Day tours
• The huge and tranquil enclosed garden, which includes some very ancient trees
• Secure parking inside electronically controlled gates
• The guests' part of the house is separate, and has its own entrance
• Beautiful Bayeux is everyone’s favourite Norman town, and you are within easy reach of the D-Day landing beaches too

Lows

• With only two rooms you need to book well in advance if you want to stay at this wonderful place
• The top-floor twin, with its sloping ceilings and compact single beds, can feel cramped - but it’s perfect for children
• If you really don’t like children you might think again as Carole and Jerome have four - but you won’t hear a thing as their part of the house is totally separate