Le Prieuré Saint Michel

It is not often that you can actually reside in a historical monument, but you can do just that at Le Prieuré Saint Michel. The complex has been authentically restored and is truly a masterpiece. The granary is now used for various exhibitions and concerts, the giant press where the monks produced the Calvados brandy is still intact, and the lovely little chapel is now an art gallery featuring the sketches of many French artists. Equally outstanding are the splendid, meticulously tended gardens. There is an old-fashioned rose garden featuring an incredible variety of fragrant roses since days of yore. In contrast there is the “new” rose garden, the iris garden, the herbal gardens, and on and on. Each is laid out as it would have been long ago. Two ponds with ducks and swans complete the idyllic scene. In summer, the grounds are open to the public, but guests are assured of their privacy with their own intimate little garden. Each of the cottages is handsomely decorated. This is a gorgeous property and I was thrilled to meet Viviane and Jean-Pierre, who ventured here from a corporate life in Paris, were captivated by the setting, and now very graciously share their enchanting home with guests.