The Hotel Guru
20 Best Hotels near the Channel Ports

20 Best Hotels near the Channel Ports

The northern Channel Ports of Calais, Boulogne and Dunkirk are a cinch to get to from the UK, but still very European. They’re rich in historic sights, beautiful beaches and glorious places to eat and drink, so worthy of more than just passing though. The southern Channel Ports, Caen, Cherbourg and St. Malo might not be quite so well known as the northern ports, but they have oodles of charm, and incredible historic stories to tell too. It wasn’t easy for our Gurus to narrow down their picks of the best hotels near the Channel Ports, because this stretch of Brittany and Normandy is spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options, from gorgeous châteaux to city style hotels close to the ports. They had to consider peaceful converted farmhouses and auberges, beach resorts and restaurants with rooms, but their final list has a range of all these accommodation types, so hopefully has the best hotels near the Channel Ports for families, romantics, foodies and beach-lovers and everyone inbetween!

For a Château Hotel

For a truly authentic château stay, consider the Château de Beneauville with its elegant facade, five graceful rooms and suites and 50 acres of grounds. This is exactly the kind of building many of us would draw if we were asked to draw a château, possibly with even more character, and the interiors embody the château idyll too, with great hearths, beamed ceilings, wall-sized tapestries and antiques with their French patterns. The location is great for exploring the region, but there’s a lot to do on site too, from fishing to cycling. No restaurant, but they offer an indulgent breakfast.
The Château du Colombier feels every inch the fairytale castle, with its graceful turrets and elegant stonework. Built in 1715 by a ship manager for the East India Company, the château today has 15 guest rooms and suites, with more fairytale features, like four-poster and canopy beds, chandeliers and huge shuttered windows. There’s a fine dining restaurant in the old dining room, with views onto the beautiful gardens.
Château de Montreuil is a small but pretty manor house/château, painted white with bright blue shutters. The landscaped gardens offer peaceful views, the restaurant has a Michelin star and the rooms — many of which have four poster beds — are more than comfortable.
The Château de Cocove, near Calais, is a classical 18th century château set in expansive parklands. The white facade makes for an especially promising approach. The 30 rooms, suites and villas are elegantly decorated, and have high ceilings to make the most of canopy beds and huge windows letting in lots of natural light. The restaurant is gourmet and the wine cellar is excellent. The communal salon and dining rooms have charming views over the grounds.

For Families

The Hotel Vent d'Ouest in Le Havre is in a central spot in town, but still only a few minutes walk from the beach. It’s a chic hotel, with 35 rooms, suites and family apartments, and an old world nautical flair. Some rooms have private balconies, and three apartments are self catering, but there’s also a restaurant serving local delicacies, plus a bar and spa too.
Clos Masure Hôtel de Campagne is set in a 17th-century farmhouse in rural Normandy. With an outdoor pool, a playground for the kids and a spa for the grown ups, it's a top family choice. Junior suites can easily accommodate two adults and two children under 12.

For Foodies

Converted from a traditional, Dinard-style villa overlooking the Baie du Prieure near Saint Malo, the Didier Meril is a chic but affordable option. Its 11 rooms snd suites, some suitable for families, have white walls, exposed brick and simple details — many of them also have bay views. The restaurant is supervised by the man with his name on the front of the hotel, Didier Meril, and the gourmet cuisine is fabulous.
The Hotel La Matelote is a seaside spot with an excellent fish restaurant, in Boulogne-sur-Mer. The decor is quite sumptuous, there's an underground pool and spa and it's got a Michelin star.
The Ivan Vautier is a Michelin starred restaurant with rooms in the centre of Caen, which is a great base for exploring the D Day beaches and Bayeux. The hotel has 19 contemporary rooms and suites, with feature walls and unfussy details and all the mod. cons..

For Romance

Les Pins de Cesar is a peaceful, coastal escape set in pretty gardens and woodlands on the cliffs north of Le Havre. It’s also one of our Guru’s picks for the most romantic hotels near the Channel Ports, and Normandy too. There are just 14 rooms and suites, all individually, and stylishly decorated, to make the most of the building’s historic features, but also adding to the mood of rustic romance. There’s also a beautiful indoor pool and spa.
Château De La Marine is a château-come-B&B offering four elegantly stylish rooms. Enjoy romantic dinners in their gorgeous dining room and head off on long walks around the estate or down to the beach.
Le Manoir de la Plage is a majestic seaside manor on the coast just outside Honfleur. The elegant exterior makes this feel like a special place to say, and the seven guest rooms offer a charismatic mix of the manor’s traditional features with contemporary style and comfort. The sunsets are idyllic, and if that’s not relaxing enough there’s a sauna, pool and hydrotherapy facilities.

For the Beach

The Hotel Atlantic in Digue de Mer is an Art Deco styled seafront hotel with spectacular sea views and a fantastic seafood restaurant.

For a Rural Escape

Only three kilometres outside Cherbourg, but feeling much more rural than that, the 16th century Manoir de la Fieffe is an elegant country château set in gorgeous manicured gardens. There are just four guest rooms, beautifully decorated in a French country style with lots of interest, which mirrors the exterior perfectly — but with bang up to date bathrooms. This is the perfect country escape.
The Auberge de la Source is an historic timbered farmhouse outside Honfleur, turned charming auberge. Its 15 rooms and suites are decorated in a rustic chic style that mirrors the property’s exterior — with plenty of French country antiques to be envious of. The owners have been clever with the space and there are lots of different choices for room configurations, making it a good choice for families and groups. And they have bikes you can borrow.
Le Prince Gourmand is a quaint farmhouse, painted white with charming blue shutters, and sitting pretty in beautiful gardens. There are just four rooms, all recently decorated and unfussy, with wood floors, whitewashed walls and a rustic collection of furniture. Homemade suppers and breakfasts are served in the garden when weather permits, and it’s a very French experience.
Le Colombier is a charming country house conversion just moments from Wissant Beach. Accommodation comprises just four rooms, all light and airy, with whitewashed walls, crisp linens, and contemporary artworks. This is a peaceful base for exploring the area.

For Sightseeing

Manoir'Hastings is a charmingly renovated 17th century farmhouse in Benouville, with four light, airy rooms and a fabulous restaurant specialising in contemporary French cuisine. The decor mixes French rural style with contemporary comforts, and there’s lots of outdoor space too. Caen is only ten minutes away, and you’re within a short walk of Pegasus Bridge, which was a key point in the D Day map.

For Great Value

Le Landemer is a beautifully converted farmhouse right on the Normandy coast in Orville-Nacqueville. Its ten simple, contemporary rooms offer wonderfully unadulterated ocean views, and private balconies and terraces to enjoy it from. The restaurant is known for its seafood, and you’re just minutes from a sandy beach. Perfect for a romantic escape, but also exceptional value.
Enclos de L'Eveche is an elegant townhouse in the centre of Boulogne, with just five rooms arranged around an intimate feeling courtyard. All are simple and elegantly dressed, with wood floors, large windows, and possibly a fireplace, and one suite is large enough to accommodate a family. Perfect for families, friends and groups looking to book an entire property.
Le Cercle de Malines, set in a 19th-century house, boasts tasteful rooms from £75 per night. There's a lovely little garden in which to unwind with a book and even dogs are allowed!

Still not sure where to book?

Refine your search to just the best places to stay in Calais, the best places to stay in Boulogne, Cherbourg and St. Malo, or the best places to stay in Dunkirk
Or you could expand your search to include our recommendations for the best places to stay in Picardy, the best places to stay in Normandy, or the best places to stay in Bretagne
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Château de Montreuil Montreuil 16 rooms from AU$399
  
  See more photos
  
  Total relaxation  -  Unwind in style- sit in the lovely garden with afternoon tea (or something stronger) or lounge by the pool with a good book.
  Foodies  -  The on site restaurant is a renowned local favorite, serving up delicate and precise gourmet dishes.
  Great walks  -  No better way to pass your evening than a stroll along the lovely beaches of the Opal Coast.
  Sights nearby  -  Explore the UNESCO biosphere reserve of the Audomarois Marshes.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, Michelin Travel
  
  English country house meets French château. A white building with blue painted shutters and doors. Rooms with pastel colours and views over beautifully landscaped gardens, and a lively and popular restaurant. A fantastic country escape. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Clos Masure Hôtel de Campagne Normandie, Normandy 13 rooms from AU$184
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  A charming country home offering hearty homemade meals, spacious gardens, a pool, and beautiful surrounding walking country
  Local exploring  -  There's plenty to do locally from spotting bison and wolves, horse riding, walking, and the coast nearby
  Short break  -  Located less than a two hour drive from Paris, this is ideal for a quick weekend getaway
  Spa  -  spa facilities include a fitness centre, solarium and a range of body treatments
  
  In the heart of rural Normandy, this authentic 17th-century farmhouse delivers a meticulous hybrid of old and new. A traditional, lovely garden and exterior is counterbalanced by a pool and sleek interiors where you'll find neutral tones and minimalist design. A chic base for exploring the region. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Hotel Atlantic Boulogne 18 rooms from AU$391
  
  See more photos
  
  Beach Life  -  Situated in the charming seaside town of Wimereux, each room overlooks the sea right on your doorstep.
  Foodies  -  An excellent restaurant featuring classic french cuisine with a focus on regional seafood.
  Great walks  -  Long stretches of sandy beaches make for great post dinner walks.
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the interesting historical sight of Fort de la Creche.
  Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel
  
  Excellent seafood and spectacular sunsets at this Art Deco seafront hotel. Contemporary rooms with floor to ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light and offer spectacular views. The fantastic restaurant serves fresh fish of the day. An all encompassing seaside hotel. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Hotel La Matelote Boulogne 35 rooms from AU$171
  
  See more photos
  
  Foodies  -  The focus is on quality local produce at Tony Lestienne's Michelin starred on site restaurant.
  Sights nearby  -  Boulogne-sur-Mer has the nations's largest fishing port great for a visit and for sampling seafood.
  Great walks  -  Grab a packed lunch and take a stroll on the 12 kilometer long beach.
  Swimming Pool  -  Small indoor pool
  Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel
  
  A cosy restaurant with rooms. Bedrooms and reception rooms are smartly furnished with red and gold decoration and mahogany furniture. The ground floor harbours a small pool and hot tub although it's all about the restaurant here. The michelin star outlet is famed for seafood. Unmissable. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Chateau de la Marine Boulogne 4 rooms from AU$310
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  Set in a stunning parkland estate, just five minutes from the seaside resort of Wimereux, it's perfect for a country getaway.
  Great walks  -  Make the most of the beautiful walking in the surrounding parkland estate.
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels
  
  A glorious chateau-come-B&B near the charming seaside resort of Wimereux. The stylish rooms feature refined furniture and tasteful artworks. Let them know if you would like evening meals in the enchanting dining room. The perfect stopping point for a trip through Wimille. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Manoir de la Fieffe Cherbourg (Normandy) 7 rooms from AU$243
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  A charming 16th century rural house set on a picturesque and little known peninsula, the Cotentin
  Families  -  The self catering cottage with plenty of space and a full kitchen is a great choice for families
  Great walks  -  Enjoy peaceful walks through the countryside and along the coast
  Sights nearby  -  A trip to famed Mont Saint-Michel is a real must
  
  An elegant 16th-century mansion in the quiet countryside just 3km from Cherbourg. Expect gorgeous manicured gardens, a fine dining room and a sunny sheltered terrace for meals. Bedrooms are traditional in style but ooze sophistication and bathrooms are bang up to date. Calm, countryside relaxation. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Le Landemer Normandy 9 rooms from AU$248
  
  See more photos
  
  Foodies  -  The restaurant is the real focal point. The chef gathers produce from local farms to create innovative regional dishes
  Value chic  -  Considering its spectacular location and its restaurant, this is a very reasonably priced stay
  Romantic Break  -  A quiet atmosphere, fine dining, and lovely sea views - the ideal spot for a romantic getaway
  Beach Life  -  Le Landemer is located just a few minutes away from the beach
  
  Le Landemer is located in Urville-Nacqueville, set in a renovated farmhouse on the coast of Normandy. The hotel offers smart accommodation boasting marvellous sea views, as well as bathrooms with crystal washbasins. Stunning seafood dishes are served at the restaurant. A romantic coastal spot. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Chateau du Colombier Saint-Malo, Brittany 15 rooms from AU$222
  
  See more photos
  
  Local exploring  -  In a splendid quiet location, close to the city centre, yet moments away from the beautiful beaches in the Brittany region.
  Writing a novel  -  Sit out in the lovely gardens and be inspired by the poetic location and peaceful atmosphere.
  Sights nearby  -  Check out the Saint-Malo Cathedral and the 18th century La Demeure de Corsaire - a privateers house and museum.
  Local markets  -  Walk and explore the interesting cobbled streets of the old town.
  
  A lovely castle with beautiful architecture that dates back to 1715 built by a ship manager of the East India Company. High ceilings, four poster beds, period furniture and intricate chandeliers add to the old world charm. A fine dining restaurant with wonderful views of the lush gardens. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Didier Méril Dinard 11 rooms from AU$160
  
  See more photos
  
  Local exploring  -  This hotel is the perfect base for discovering the north coast of Brittany, as well as the Rance Valley and Mont-Saint-Michel
  Families  -  With cots available for babies and kids' menus at the restaurant, families are well-catered to at this hotel
  Beach Life  -  Set on the beautiful bay of Dinard, steps from the sunny beach, this hotel is ideal for a seaside getaway
  Sights nearby  -  Visit Notre Dame d'Emeraude de Dinard, a charming local church located steps from the hotel
  
  This boutique hotel is housed in a traditional, Dinard-style villa overlooking the bay in Brittany. Guestrooms are bright and airy, with crisp white linens, plush, aquamarine carpets and sea views. Dine at the hotel restaurant, supervised by Didier Méril himself, after a day at the beach. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Hotel Vent d'Ouest Le Havre 35 rooms from AU$204
  
  See more photos
  
  Families  -  Ideal for families with the choice of spacious family rooms or apartments that sleep up to four and have kitchenettes
  Local exploring  -  Well set in the heart of the Perret neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and just a few minutes from the beach
  Short break  -  Well positioned for those taking a ferry crossing
  Spa  -  The spa offers massages and body treatments using NUXE natural health and beauty products
  
  A chic hotel in the centre of town yet just minutes from the beach. A choice of elegantly styled rooms, suites, and apartments (some with private balconies) suit all guests. Supreme pampering can be had at the Nuxe Spa and the restaurant serves traditional fare. Ideal crashpad for local exploring. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Les Pins de Cesar Normandy 14 rooms from AU$430
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  Converted family estate situated in a nature reserve and offering quality spa facilities, ideal for relaxing country retreats
  Spa breaks  -  The Nuxe Spa is a real lure with individualised body treatments and massages and its wide choice of amenities
  Great walks  -  The Chemin des Douaniers is a stunning 7 km round-trip hike along the white-chalk cliffs nearby
  Sights nearby  -  Head to the picturesque villages of Tilleul and Etretat on the charming Alabaster Coast
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A peaceful coastal hotel tucked away in pretty gardens and woodlands near the cliffs. Featuring a gorgeous indoor pool and indulgent Nuxe spa, its rustic charm is bound to seduce. Rooms are homely and sophisticated and expect to be delighted by the cuisine- ideal for a rejuvenating getaway. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Auberge de la Source Barneville-la-Bertran, Normandy 15 rooms from AU$326
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  With beautiful countryside, picnics arranged, and several walking or cycling routes - this is an idyllic rural escape
  Local exploring  -  Well positioned for accessing Honfleur and its pretty harbour, Deauville, Mont Saint Michel, and the Landing Beaches
  Restaurant  -  Gourmet regional cuisine is served in the restaurant which uses mostly local & seasonal produce
  Sights nearby  -  Only 4km from Honfleur and easy access to Deauville.
  
  A delightful timbered farmhouse with a fantastic regional restaurant. Rustic chic interiors with high wooden beamed ceilings and lots of light. Rooms, suites, and family suites are wood clad with simple modern furniture. A peaceful rural setting for families, groups, or friends. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Le Manoir de la Plage Honfleur 7 rooms from AU$236
  
  See more photos
  
  Total relaxation  -  Remote, quiet and good facilities for relaxing including a sauna, an indoor swimming pool, and hydrotherapy
  Beach Life  -  The beach is on the doorstep of the manor, perfect for sunset walks or a bracing swim
  Tennis  -  Outdoor tennis courts by the sea are available for hire at the hotel
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool with the option to rent out for a private session
  
  A majestic seaside manor with a charismatic mix of traditional French decor and contemporary style. Spacious rooms feature large sash windows, exposed beams, and simple modern furniture. Boasting hydrotherapy massages, a sauna, an indoor pool, and tennis courts - this is a peaceful hideaway. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Manoir'Hastings 14970, Normandy 4 rooms from AU$289
  
  See more photos
  
  Local exploring  -  With the Bayeaux Tapestry & D Day Landing beaches nearby, this is well placed to explore some of Normandy's historical sites
  Short break  -  Well positioned just 10 minutes from Caen and 2 hours from Paris
  Foodies  -  Sample exemplary modern french cuisine at the hotel's restaurant
  Sights nearby  -  History on your doorstep - the Bayeux Tapestry is only 40km away
  
  A renovated 17th-century farmhouse in Benouville. Four chic rooms are light and airy with a perfect mix of contemporary and traditional styles. Boasting a fabulous restaurant serving modern French cuisine. Walking distance from Pegasus Bridge, (a pivotal D-day site) and Caen is nearby. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Chateau de Beneauville Cabourg 5 rooms from AU$310
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  A quintessentially french country escape with chic interiors, indulgent breakfast and fantastic walks
  Groups  -  With just five rooms, this is ideal to rent out in its entirety for a grand getaway with friends
  Local markets  -  Sample regional produce at one of the local farmers markets that run throughout the week
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  A whimsical Renaissance château set within 50 acres of grounds. Interiors brim with character, expect: elegant antiques, tapestries, working fireplaces and classic french patterns. There's plenty to do within the property from fishing to cycling and it's also well positioned to explore the region. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Ivan Vautier Caen (Normandy) 19 rooms from AU$199
  
  See more photos
  
  Foodies  -  The one Michelin starred restaurant, headed by Ivan Vautier, uses local produce to create elegant and simple regional dishes
  Romantic Break  -  With a fine dining restaurant and a spa, this is a romantic option for a getaway for two
  Great walks  -  Get out of the city and take long coastal walks before returning with an appetite for dinner
  Spa  -  The spa offeres a hammam, a sauna, a hot tub, and a wide range of treatments
  
  A Michelin starred restaurant and five star hotel with sleek contemporary rooms in the centre of Caen. The rooms are simple and contemporary with bold colours and clean lines. The restaurant is the real lure with its exquisite regional dishes. Complete with a spa, this is an indulgent stay. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Enclos de L'Eveche Boulogne 5 rooms from AU$150
  
  See more photos
  
  Private Hot Tub  -  Some of the rooms are equipped with hot tub bath tubs
  Sights nearby  -  Right in the centre of Boulogne
  Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
  Restaurant with rooms
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  An elegant townhouse hotel in the centre of Boulogne with an intimate atmosphere. Simple but elegant bedrooms and one family suite with parquet floors and high ceilings. Great value for families and friends visiting the city or stopping off to or from the ferry. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Le Prince Gourmand ECHINGHEN, Pas-de-Calais 4 rooms from AU$171
  
  See more photos
  
  Country Escape  -  A delightful converted farmhouse set in a tranquil and scenic rural spot.
  Sights nearby  -  View the the ramparts and visit the castle museum in the town of Boulogne sur Mer.
  Great walks  -  Take long walks along the spectacular UNESCO capes of Gris-nez and Blanc-nez.
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  
  A quaint white farmhouse set in charming gardens. Beautifully renovated throughout the feel is traditional yet unfussy. Expect rustic furniture, white washed walls and wooden floors. Home-made breakfast and dinners are served in the garden (weather depending). A quintessentially French experience. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Le Colombier Wissant, Pas-de-Calais 4 rooms from AU$187
  
  See more photos
  
  Local exploring  -  Ideally placed to access the beach and explore the historical sights of the region.
  Great walks  -  Explore the scenic walking trails starting from near the property.
  Full of character
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  
  A charming country house just steps from picturesque Wissant beach. A handful of rooms are individually styled but all are light and airy with white washed walls, crisp white linen and pops of colour coming from the contemporary art. A delightful base to explore the region from. See More
  
  Check Availability
- Chateau de Cocove Calais 27 rooms from AU$160
  
  See more photos
  
  Restaurant  -  Fine dining based on local organic resources and on fresh produce from the nearby sea.
  Traditional
  Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
  Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
  
  Classic 18th century chateau near Calais with a gourmet restaurant and excellent wine cellar. Beautiful elegant bedrooms with high ceilings and pastel furnishings. The restaurant, formerly the stables, has wonderful views of the parkland. A romantic country escape. See More
  
  Check Availability