Regions of France

51 One of the oldest cities in France, Rouen is the historical capital of Normandy and an atmospheric place with a fine medieval quarter of narrow streets lined with half- timbered houses. The city also has a vibrant cultural life with a host of engaging museums, a cathedral that Monet used repeatedly for subject matter, and numerous Gothic churches and mansions. ROUEN With its craggy chalk cliffs, including three monumental natural arches and a pointed formation called the Needle which rises 70 metres above the gin-clear sea, this is known as the Alabaster Coast. The extraordinary luminescence makes Étretat mesmerising. No wonder its beauty was much admired by Impressionist painters. Étretat Cliffs that made an impression! The Hotel de Bourgtheroulde and Spa is a 15th century listed historic property in the heart of the ancient capital of Normandy, Rouen. The boutique hotel features a 700sqm Spa and houses an indoor 18/9m swimming pool, steam bath, sauna, gym and 8 treatment rooms. A fine dining restaurant, a bar in the atrium or the historic courtyard complete the experience. Its superb location makes it the ideal base to explore one of the most understimated cities of France. Hotel de Bourgtheroulde and Spa Autograph Collection, Rouen, Normandy Les Tilleuls Etretat, Normandy When a Parisian tells you they’re going to Normandy for the weekend, it usually means they are headed to their country home - often a big beautiful half-timbered affair with moody sea views and manicured sloping lawns - to enjoy the simple, best things in life: oysters and long seaside walks. If however, you aren’t lucky enough to have your own place to pop over for the weekend, then you have beautiful Les Tilleuls.