Hôtel Tanquerey de La Rochaisière

Gilles made our arrival easy, even though rain and the narrow streets made Google Maps hard to follow. The hotel’s small oval plaque is above and to the right of the door, though from the street the plain stone front gives little away. We stayed three nights, and the place became one of the highlights of our Normandy trip. The 17th C building has period furnishings that feel thoughtfully updated while still respecting its character, with modern comforts where they count. I’m glad the bathroom, bedding, and lighting weren’t fully authentic to the 17th C. Our host was warm, attentive, and full of useful local advice, from things to do to places to eat. Breakfast was outstanding, especially his homemade jams, pastries, and yogurt. He did sheepishly admit the croissants and bread were bought. Coutances has lovely surviving areas despite wartime damage, and I especially enjoyed the cathedral because I love medieval architecture. Next time, we’ll take Gilles’s advice and see more of the coast and surrounding area. I’d return in a heartbeat.