THE STORY: Here’s a true haven of peace hidden away on the very popular Île de Ré. This mansion built in 1885, boasting a belvedere with incredible panoramic views of the Port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré and the ocean beyond, is governed by Sophie and Jérôme Perrin, two Parisians who (inevitably) fell in love with the area. Inside their aptly-named Lanternon, you’ll find hardwood floors, crown moulding, fireplaces, and five bedrooms with high ceilings, two of which get beautiful natural light from the west, overlooking the harbor, and three south-facing bedrooms, which open out on the garden’s olive and fig trees. Savor lunch in said garden or lounge about on a deckchair or by the pool, away from the madness of all the tourists. For last-minute summer vacationers: if all the bedrooms at Le Lanternon are booked, try Le Secret, the couple’s second house, which also has five bedrooms for rent that give out onto the garden. Double rooms starting at €198 a night.
TOILETRIES: Parfums d’ici lemon verbena and argan oil shampoo, soap and body wash.
BREAKFAST: From €15 to €25, with hot drinks, freshly squeezed orange juice, viennoiseries, Poitou tourteau fromager, local honey and jam, rostello ham, Comté, fresh goat’s cheese, eggs any way you like…
LITTLE LUXURY: Swim a few laps against the current in the pool.
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