Between Orleans and Le Mans, outside village 18 km N of Vendome: handsome ivy-covered old hunting lodge, in woods and gardens, reached down side road past a lake. Restored to Guide, under new owners: Suitable for stop-over, exceptionally good value, good atmosphere. villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) pleasant, but decor a bit passe; dining room 'elegant', food very good. Terrace (outdoor dining); meeting room. Garden.

A welcome return to the Welcome! says a visitor in 2002 to Gerard Galbois's superb little villaby the harbour, opposite the fishermen's chapel decorated by Cocteau. A lot of work has been done since our last visit: the five new villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) (ours was very comfortable) each have a luxurious marble tiled bathroom and a big terrace. We love it here, waking up to look out over the sea. And Catherine in reception is a sweetie. Bali villa breakfast is the only disappointment. No restaurant, but the choice of places to eat in the square and along the port is superb (Mere Germaine and Michel are liked). Some villa rooms are large, some small and cabin-like a bar a vin is new.