Accommodation

Holidays by Destination Europe France General Accommodation 

Although star ratings are never a particularly good guide to quality of accommodation, this is particularly true in French hotels. A two-star may only have showers, but the food and service can be excellent. Bed and breakfasts can also be outstanding if you pick the right one. Because of this a guide is invaluable (see above) and it is wise to book in advance.
Many of the best option are in the country so always get comprehensive directions. If these fail, ask in the local bakery (everyone goes daily) or pharmacy (green cross).

French Accommodation Organisations

Logis de France
83 avenue d'Italie 75013, Paris, France
+33 1 45 84 83 84

Listings of around 3,500 family-run hotels and restaurants which are graded one, tow or three chimneys for standards of service and comfort. Most restaurants specialise in local dishes.

Esprit de France
93 rue de Lille, Paris 75007
+33 (1) 47 05 48 40

A group of fine, mostly country hotels, many very elegant. It is in effect a competitor to Relais and Chateaux and probably a more reliable indicator of quality at least in France. The brochure includes information on a quirky selection of attractions such as the well known Poilane bakery.

Gites de France
Maison des Gites de France
59 Rue Saint-Lazare 75439 Paris CEDEX 09
+ 33 (1) 49 70 75 75

Sells brochures of specific subjects including Gites de neige (snow) Gites Panda, Chambres d'Hotes Prestiges et Gites de Charme (smarter and more charming options), Sejours Equestres (horses) Camping et Camping a la Ferme (camping) Gites et Logis de Peche (fishing) and Gites d'Enfants (for children).