There's an interesting little history to this hotel. It was allegedly built by the Russian prince Vlassov, in tribute to Queen Hortense de Beauharnais (daughter of Joséphine de Beauharnais, who is better known as Napolean's wife, no less!). By all accounts Vlassov was a poet, aesthete and all round mystery man, but there’s nothing mysterious about the delights of a stay here. It’s down to the wonderful couple who now own the place. Friendly and courteous, the Benoist family have fine tuned the art of hospitality down to a tee, so in effect you will be treated as more than just a guest and be charmed with many stories of the place.
Having only six rooms, of course, helps keep things on an intimate and personal level but the Villa Reine Hortense, is not only renowned for its history or welcome. The 19th century building is a major attraction in itself. Decorated in the Louis XV style, public rooms are enormous and glamorous with high ceilings, topped with trompe l’oeil, whilst bedrooms are truly fit for a princess. In fact, one such high ceiling room still has the original silver plated bath tub used by Joséphine herself.
Finally, there’s the location. The Villa Reine Hortense, is located directly onto one of the best known beaches in the area, so on top of history, class and hospitality you can also add seaside to the Villa’s many plus points. The town of Dinard is also a pleasant place with many good restaurants (the hotel does not serve meals other than breakfast) to choose from. A water taxi to St Malo is also available from Dinard.