THE ROAD TO INSPIRATION
Looking to book your next stylish escape? There’s an abundance of charming destinations just across the Channel. Here, our editors reveal their favourite European hotels and the inspiring interiors that make them unique
LE BARN Bonnelles, France
We say: Exploring Europe isn’t just about city breaks. It might be less than 25 miles from Paris, but Le Barn feels a world away from the urban bustle. Located in what was once La Cense estate – the setting for Henry IV of France’s hunting expeditions and his extramarital exploits – it’s now a stylish retreat offering a meditative dose of nature. The focus here might be on exploring Rambouillet Forest, but relaxation is also guaranteed. Nestled in two large red barns, all rooms have stunning views and rustic interiors courtesy of Parisian design studio Be-Poles. First stop when you arrive should be the outdoor hot tubs with a view. From £132 per night (lebarnhotel.com/en).
Get there: For the fastest, easiest and most environmentally friendly way to cross the English Channel by car, try Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. The journey from Folkestone to Calais takes just 35 minutes; from there you can make your way down to Bonnelles. CLARE SARTIN, HOUSES EDITOR
AUGUST Antwerp, Belgium
We say: Tucked away in Antwerp’s ‘Green Quarter’, August takes its name from the former Augustinian cloister it inhabits, and boasts five heritage-listed buildings that have been transformed into a stylish sanctuary by Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen. Each of its 44 guest rooms is unique, but all share a sense of pared-back luxury. The lounge and bar area in the turn-of-the-century chapel is where the drama unfolds, with its soaring ceiling, arched windows and oversized Molteni&C sofas. For a spot of quiet contemplation, head to the secluded wellness area and take a dip in the natural swimming pond. From £116 per night (designhotels.com/august). Get there: Make a trip of it by driving through Brussels en route to Antwerp. With its ornate 17th-century guildhouses, Belgium’s capital is a must-visit. Make organising your perfect adventure even more stress-free by booking your hotel and travel together with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle.
KATE WORTHINGTON, FEATURES EDITOR
THE PULITZER Amsterdam, The Netherlands
We say: Many visitors don’t make it further than the decidedly grown-up bar, but take it from us: Amsterdam’s first five-star hotel, the Pulitzer, is still the city’s most compelling place to stay. It’s hard to believe that this row of centrally located 17th- and 18th-century canal-front houses was once dilapidated, so lovingly converted are its labyrinthine spaces. Overhauled several years ago by creative director Jacu Strauss, the hotel is now plush but not pretentious, and its interiors echo the painterly hues of the Dutch masters, with dazzling art on display – the Rijksmuseum is a short walk away if you’re in the market for more. From £218 per night (pulitzeramsterdam.com).
Get there: Holland is just a few hours’ drive from Calais, so why not take your time getting there? Stop off at Belgium’s port city of Ghent along the way, to take in its medieval architecture, wide array of museums and beautiful river harbour.
CAT OLLEY, SENIOR FEATURES WRITER
THE HOXTON Paris, France
We say: Transformed in 2017 into a buzzing 172-room hotel, this former 18th-century hôtel particulier (grand townhouse) in Paris’s hip 2nd arrondissement is a great affordable base for exploring the City of Light. Its eclectic, boho public spaces have been conceived by the design team behind Soho House, while guest rooms are by Paris-based duo Humbert & Poyet. Think distressed walls and period cornicing combined with luxe Art Deco-style furnishings, chevron parquet flooring, Formica-topped tables and Lampe Gras lighting. As always with The Hoxton hotels, the stylish communal spaces of the restaurant and enclosed courtyard terrace are a big draw for residents and locals alike. From £111 per night (thehoxton.com).
Get there: From Calais, make a pit stop in Amiens to explore the stunning Gothic Amiens Cathedral or find a quiet spot to enjoy a cafe au lait on the Quartier Saint-Leu’s narrow streets.
BETHAN RYDER, EDITORIAL MANAGER