This 16th-century manor near Deauville hides a luxurious retreat

It’s a place that can only be discovered by taking the time to get away from the crowds. Behind a discreet alley in Canapville, just a few minutes from the sea and Deauville, lies a rare address. . Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville. A 4-star hotel with a historic soul and a contemporary promise.

A story set in stone: from Cornelius’ refuge to boutique hotel

Built in the 16th century, Manoir de Prétot – its original name – was a refuge for Pierre Corneille, who stayed here in search of inspiration and silence. The elegant half-timbered building, with its turret and imposing carved staircase, has stood the test of time. It was a schoolhouse in the 19th century, a farm in the 20th, and then a private residence. Listed as a Monument Historique since 1995, it has been entirely restored by the Buildinvest Group.

This ambitious restoration has preserved the remarkable heritage features – black and white flint paving, period fireplace, marine engravings on the walls – while adding modern living spaces. The former stables and outbuildings have become luxury cottages. The bread oven has been turned into an intimate suite, and the old water troughs into elegant planters.

Every nook and cranny of the estate tells a story, while today offering a sophisticated hotel experience.

The Norman way of life

Nestled in a 2.5-hectare green setting, Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville is much more than just a place to stay: it’s a slow, precious vacation, in tune with the rhythm of Normandy nature, birdsong, apple blossom and morning mist on the pond.

In terms of accommodation, the historic manor houses rooms full of character, with their monumental staircases and period beams. The independent cottages offer a bubble of calm with direct access to the garden. Family or romantic suites, sofa beds for children, private lounge: everything is designed to welcome couples, families or solo travelers in discreet comfort.

Themed getaways: more than just a stay

Les Manoirs offers several “turnkey” experiences to extend the Norman art of living:

• L’Escapade Romantique, ideal for lovers: champagne in the room, tailor-made massages, overnight stay in a cottage with private access to the spa.
• L’Escapade Gourmande, perfect for epicureans: dinner in a Deauville restaurant, generous breakfast, and private use of the wellness area.
• L’Escapade Normande, designed for culture and nature lovers: stroll along the banks of La Touques, visit local markets and relax in the garden.

Each of these formulas illustrates an à la carte stay, focused on pleasure, disconnection and (re)discovery of the region.

L’empreinte d’Amélie Buvat: rustic elegance and meticulous details

Interior designer Amélie Buvat designed the interior. Inspired by the “family home” spirit, she blends authenticity and modernity: 70s chic furniture, natural materials, sand and linen tones, crystal chimes, Louise Roe lighting, Ardamez bistro tables… each room has its own story to tell.

The rooms evoke the sea in their nuances, while the lounges exude a gentle warmth. And everywhere, Norman linen recalls the region’s agricultural roots. A sensorial decor, designed to rest the body as well as the mind.

The apple orchard: conservatory, tasting and local immersion

At the heart of the estate, the orchard plays a central role. Entrusted to landscape gardener Philippe Dubreuil, it features several ancient varieties of apple trees. Every autumn, guests can take part in the harvest by hand, in an almost meditative atmosphere.

The fruit is then cold-pressed by Les 3 Pommes. Some are transformed into PDO ciders and Calvados by master cider-maker Michel Bréavoine. A complete apple experience is on offer: guided tastings, pairings with local dishes, and the discovery of natural juices without sugar or preservatives.

A confidential wellness area

The warm, discreet spa features a heated outdoor pool (April to October), a private Jacuzzi, a light-wood sauna, and a menu of customized treatments for solo or duo massages.

The atmosphere is calm, never flashy. Well-being here is a form of silence, between breathing, soft light and natural fragrances. Even children can enjoy it, while adults savor a homemade apple juice or a local calvados.

Simple, local gastronomy

Buffet breakfast is served from 8am to 11am. You can choose to eat in the shade of the apple trees or in the dining room by the fire. Seasonal fruit, pastries, soft-boiled eggs, Pont-l’Évêque cheeses and freshly squeezed juices make up a generous, local offering.

In the afternoon, a gourmet snack is served with homemade pie and a hot drink. The Salon Corneille, with its honesty bar, welcomes guests all day long for a glass of wine, a cocktail or an organic snack. Finally, a picnic basket can be ordered for an escape to the surrounding fields.

A partner restaurant (L’Auberge du Vieux Tour) completes the offer, just a stone’s throw from the estate.

In Canapville, between Pont-l’Évêque and Deauville, the Auberge du Vieux Tour is one of those discreet addresses that cultivate the Norman art of living with precision. Nestled in an authentic half-timbered thatched cottage, this charming inn is a renowned eatery run by chef Franck Dugast. A member of the Confrérie d’Escoffier, his gastronomic cuisine is simple, masterful and always in season, with local produce and generous desserts. In fine weather, you can sit under the pergola or in the shade of the trees, in a bucolic setting, refined without overdoing it. The welcome is warm, the place preserved.

Manoirs des Portes de Deauville, seminars in the countryside

For companies looking for a change of scenery and a sense of cohesion, Manoirs des Portes de Deauville offers intimate seminars for up to 30 people, in a 45 m² half-timbered room. Breakfast by the fire, creative meetings and breaks in the garden. The experience is a world away from conventional meetings.

Practical information

📍 Les Manoirs des Portes de Deauville
30 route de Pont-l’Évêque, 14800 Canapville
📞 +33 (0)2 31 65 65 18
📩 [email protected]
🚗 From Paris: 2h by car (A13)
🚆 Nearest train station: Trouville-Deauville (6.9 km)
✈️ Nearest airport: Deauville (7.7 km)

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