Niort – Maison La Port Rouge

Lovely host, stunning rooms – a perfect retreat in Niort

We stayed in some wonderful hotels and B&Bs on our La Velo Francette trip but this one in Niort was one of my absolute favourites – for so many reasons. Firstly, there was Christine, who greeted us with a huge smile and farewelled us a day later with a stash of bananas and fresh water bottles. She has five lavishly decorated bedrooms (with lovely walk-in showers – perfect after a day on the road), as well as two studio apartments in her gorgeous restored townhouse. Christine's put her heart and soul into the place – and you can tell; her fine and elegant touches are everywhere from the rich wall colours and art to the beautifully laid out (and wholesome) breakfasts. There is a large garden to relax in, complete with pool and safe bike parking. French and English spoken. Free wifi. Just perfect.

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