Stay at these beautiful historic properties, with Pierre & Vacances
As a long-established European leader for self-catering, Pierre & Vacances is firmly committed to delivering a low-carbon accommodation solution that supports local communities and improves biodiversity in the regions where it operates. The brand embodies local culture and, at the same time, has upscaled old buildings to reuse them as part of its environmental commitment. Pierre & Vacances has residences ideally located in France which have incredible histories: from a customs barracks in Normandy and an old island fort in Charente to a flour mill in the heart of a medieval town of Loire.
The Customs Building (featured image)
Situated at the north-eastern end of the Touques peninsula in Deauville, the Customs House is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the seaside resort. Built between 1861 and 1866, and at that time named the “Customs Barracks”, the initial house comprised offices for customs officers on the ground floor and accommodation in the upper parts. Steeped in history, this is a building that Pierre & Vacances has protected and restored by highlighting the 19th century architectural heritage.
In 2021, the interior benefited from a large-scale restructure as well as an identical renovation to the façade that respected the historical aspect of this emblematic building. Completely refurbished, the Bâtiment des Douanes is now composed of 28 spacious, bright and elegant flats. Guests can enjoy the services of the main building, including heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, children’s pool, sauna, hammam, Deep® Nature Spa, fitness room, breakfast and concierge service.
A four-night stay, at the 5* Presqu’île de la Touques – Le Bâtiment des Douanes, costs from £380 total based on two adults sharing a studio standard with double bed, bathroom, open-plan kitchenette and living area.
For more information call 0870 0267 145 or visit www.pierreetvacances.com
Fort de la Rade
Ile d’Aix is a small-pedestrianised island, just two kilometres long, on the Atlantic Coast. It is reached by ferry and is 30 km south of La Rochelle and is well known as the place where Napoleon had a splendid house built. Located on the southern tip of the isle, it’s easy to see the Fort de la Rade, which was built in 1703 to control access to the Aix harbour. In 1757, it was completely razed to the ground by the English, before being completely rebuilt and then regularly modernised. Pierre & Vacances then renovated the building and built within the fortress.
Now, the 3* Residence Le Fort de la Rade is located 300 metres from the pier, the beach and the shops. A heated outdoor swimming pool is available from June to September.
A four-night stay in July 2023, at the 3* Residence Pierre & Vacances Le Fort de la Rade, costs from £1,420 total based on two adults sharing a studio with bathroom, open-plan kitchenette and living area.
For more information call 0870 0267 145 or visit www.pierreetvacances.com
Flour Mill
There are more famous castles in the Loire than you can shake a finger at, but only 42 of them are considered exceptional enough to be UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Discover Loches, a medieval town immersed in history that still retains its authenticity – it’s one of the best-preserved communes in France with a fascinating past.
Right in the centre of the royal town, the Pierre & Vacances 3* Residence Le Moulin des Cordeliers was once a former industrial sized flour mill from the 19th century. Its location is right in the hubbub of nearby shops and the city’s entertainment, as well as being at the crossroads of several hiking trails and the Loire and Indre cycle trails.
Harmoniously blending modern and ancient, it offers cosy and bright apartments with contemporary decor, some of which have balconies. To relax, head for the semi-open heated-swimming pool or the sun terrace.
A seven-night stay in July 2023, at the 3* Residence Le Moulin des Cordeliers, costs from £785 total based on two adults and two children sharing a one bedroom apartment with bunk bed alcove with bathroom, balcony, open-plan kitchenette and living area.
For more information call 0870 0267 145 or visit www.pierreetvacances.com
Fort
What was a former small sardine port, nestled at the end of Baie de Douarnenez in Morgat, is now an ideal seaside resort for discovering the island charm of the Crozon peninsula in Brittany. Located in the Armorique natural park, the Pierre & Vacances Cap Morgat residence has been fitted out in a former fort. The reception area retains the original architecture with stone walls and a vaulted ceiling. The accommodation occupies a spectacular site on the cliffs, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. A rocky beach, below the residence, is accessible at low tide.
On site, the apartments are decorated in light-blue tones to echo the horizon. All have balconies with views of the sea or the landscaped gardens. A heated outdoor swimming pool is available from June until the end of September.
A seven-night stay in July 2023, at the 4* Residence Pierre & Vacances Cap Morgat, costs from £1,210 total based on two adults and children sharing a one bedroom apartment with double bed, sofa bed, bathroom, open-plan kitchenette and living area.
For more information call 0870 0267 145 or visit www.pierreetvacances.com
