Set on the coastal hills just outside the picturesque port town of Honfleur, Ferme Saint Simeon is a lovely, 17th-century Normandy complex of timbered and shingled buildings with flowerboxes adorning every window. Although a fire a few years ago mandated extensive renovations, the wonderful ambiance of old has been preserved—the transition from old to new is seamless, and Ferme Saint Simeon is even more beautiful than ever.

In the garden where painters such as Monet, Boudin, and Jongkind set up their easels, 17 rooms have been added. Of these new rooms, three are suites and, like the other rooms; all are individually styled and handsomely decorated with fine antiques.

The intimate decor of the restaurant is beautifully accented by a beamed ceiling, bountiful flower arrangements and elegant place settings. The chef uses only high-quality, fresh produce, for which the region is famous, to create exquisite dishes. Another restaurant, La Table Toutain offers traditional cuisine. Reservations for this superb hotel and the exceptional restaurants are a must.

Ferme Saint Simeon offers a convenient and luxurious base from which to explore enchanting Honfleur. The D-Day beaches and Giverny are both just an hour’s drive away.