France B&B Karen Brown's

In a tranquil setting of pasture, orchard, and forest, La Réserve is a beautiful amber-washed, two-story manor just a short drive from Giverny, whose owners offer guests a genuine welcome. Unbelievably, the building is of new construction—with much hard work and love, Marie Lorraine and Didier built it themselves, repaired furniture, and made all the bedspreads and curtains. The result is a gorgeous, elegant place to stay with exceptional accommodation. On the ground floor you find a beautiful salon with fireplace and old pool table, a gorgeous dining room, and an adorable guestroom tucked just below the stairs looking out through large windows across to orchards and fields grazed by cattle. Upstairs, guestrooms under high, beamed ceilings are magnificent. Twin or queen beds are set on creaking wooden floors topped with attractive throw rugs, while large, shuttered windows open onto greenery and seem almost to frame a painting worthy of Monet. Just 90 minutes from CDG airport, the Brunets recommend a minimum of two nights’ stay so that you can explore Normandy, and spend at least a day lazing in the countryside.