Hôtel des Ormes is an attractive ivy-covered mansion that Flavia and Jose de Mello – Brazilian and Portuguese, respectively – bought in 2004 and converted into an elegant hotel with 14 bedrooms.
This 19th century Norman residence of the bishops of Dol, has been completely overhauled so that all guest rooms have an en suite bathroom – as well as plasma TV and other modern day facilities. There is a flower garden at the back where one can have lunches and dinners during summer. And what meals they are! Together with Galicia and the Basque country in Spain, Normandy has some of the best seafood in Europe and here they prepare it very well. After a busy day, take a welcome respite with a drink at the bar or  leisurely browse the library beside it.
The hotel is located within the Domaine Des Ormes, a 250-acre estate with ancient trees that encompasses a complex that includes an 18-hole golf course, cricket, aqua park, 4 swimming pools, 3 restaurants, several bars, a riding school and even a 4-star campsite. Hôtel des Ormes has a yacht marina in front; interminable sandy beaches on both sides; and a granite village at the back. Should you feel like doing some tourism, the famous Mont-Saint-Michele is close by – as well as the beaches where the Allied troops disembarked during WWII.
Another enjoyable idea is to take a cruise to the Guernsey and Sark islands, which can be glimpsed far on the horizon.