traveldk.com

To the east of Argentan, this handsome, well-dressed 18th-century hunting lodge is set in its own extensive wooded park at the source of the River Orne.

Helicopters arriving here in the wooded Risle Valley (and some do) look for two thatched roofs joined by a modern extension. The decoration and superb food are also fusions of old and new, and every bedroom has its own character and style.

This Cotentin beach is the place to come for serious surfing. Pitch a tent, or take one of the well-designed caravans.

In the centre of Deauville, a short stroll away from the Casino, boutiques and glitzy seafront board-walk, the refurbished Trophée is smart enough to make chic Parisians feel comfortable. The reception desk is manned by suitably metropolitan staff.

This long-established family-run Logis de France in the heart of the Pays d’Auge has a cosy, familial atmosphere, clean, pretty bedrooms and – its focal point – a popular local restaurant serving straightforward regional food. All in all, it’s good value. Try to be in St-Pierre-sur-Dives for the wonderful Monday market.

This two-star seaside campsite was converted from a lime quarry in 1983. One of the pits is now used for rock climbing; the other has been turned into tennis courts. If you like fresh seafood, catch your own and cook it over a campfire.

L’Absinthe, close to the Vieux Port, is the most intimate hotel in Honfleur, with just seven, wellequipped, beamed bedrooms, a restaurant, a brasserie and a cosy, wood-panelled reception room.

A stylish and well-appointed former hunting lodge, with two pools (one indoor), a talented chef, and a smart dining room (with fair-weather terrace). A huge log fire warms the bar in winter.

With 80 bedrooms and an outdoor terrace, this popular hotel is a good choice in the heart of this happy-go-lucky resort.