L'Ecu de Bretagne

Location. L'Ecu de Bretagne is housed in a restored old post house and inn in the medieval town of Beaugency on the Loire, 25 kilometres from Orleans. The River Loire is 500 metres from the hotel and the Golf des Bordes 18-hole golf course is eight kilometres away. Beaugency railway station is 500 metres from the hotel and Paris Orly Airport is 150 kilometres away, with an approximate driving time of 90 minutes.

Hotel Features. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool set in the pretty gardens and the lobby boasts a wood-burning fireplace. Bicycle rental is available and the hotel can make up sandwiches for those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside. Free, secure parking is available for those arriving by car.

Restaurant L'Ecu de Bretagne serves local 'cuisine bourgeoise' with a selection of fine regional wines in a setting with traditional decor in rich deep colours. A children's menu is available.

Guestrooms. The 34 air- conditioned guestrooms are spread over two floors and have individual contemporary decor in a variety of colour schemes. All guestrooms include satellite television, direct-dial phones and bathrooms with hair dryers.

Expert Tip. Be sure to visit the house in Orleans where Joan of Arc lived in 1429, though destroyed by bombing in 1940, it was lovingly restored after the war. The house can be found 25 kilometres away.