La chaumière du Tordoir

On our way back from the UK, we stopped here for one night and found it excellent value. Dinner and breakfast were both great. The bakery just around the corner was friendly and really handy too, with great sandwiches for the journey.

Catherine, the owner, was lovely. I really enjoyed my one-night stay, and the evening meal was delicious and good value.

The owners were friendly, the place was comfortable, and breakfast was great.

The room was cozy, comfortable, and tastefully decorated, and breakfast was a real pleasure, with homemade food or homemade products. Catherine's care and energy showed in all the thoughtful details. She welcomes guests with real warmth, and after more than ten years in hospitality, she and Jacques still make you feel genuinely looked after. They are happy to chat if you want, especially about cycling, but also give you space and respect your privacy. I never felt judged or intruded upon when I wanted time to myself, which I really appreciated. The cottage sits in a lovely green spot beside the Saint-Quentin Canal, in a region with a remarkable heritage of embroidery and lacemaking. Catherine and Jacques know the Cambrésis region inside out and share it generously and sincerely. With the bicycles they lent us, we explored sections of the Way of St. James, a nature reserve, a greenway, and little paths alongside locks and fishermen. The rides were peaceful and full of chances to take photos, with locals greeting us warmly along the way. Thanks to them and local tourism providers, I discovered, and in some cases rediscovered, the area's treasures, including the magnificent Vaucelles Abbey and its brewery, the Matisse Museum, and the Caudry Museum of Embroidery and Lace. I was struck by the skill of the embroidery and lace professionals. Their reputation reaches well beyond our borders, and they receive many commissions for international figures. Jacques is a true ambassador for this craft. Thank you to him for giving so much of his time and sharing his passion with such genuine enthusiasm. This was one of my most memorable short breaks, and the encounter touched me personally and culturally. The Cambrésis region deserves to be explored, and Gîte du Tordoir is an ideal base, with quality, affordable accommodation and hosts who are passionate and genuinely kind. Thank you, Catherine and Jacques.