Le Moulin de Connelles

I am fortunate to have experienced some of the world’s finest hotels and yet every once in a while there is one that captures my heart—as did Le Moulin de Connelles. The setting is magical. This fairytale teal-blue and cream timbered 19th-century grain mill, topped by a medley of dormer windows and chimneys, straddles a river on the banks of its own island. Green lawn and geraniums add dramatic color. However, it is the warmth of welcome and comfort of accommodation that capture the soul. Karine is truly charm personified and juggles everything with finesse, embracing the business and, more importantly, the guests with graciousness and warmth. Guestrooms are found up a winding staircase. We settled into a suite (4) with windows on two sides and views overlooking the river and the pool. Suite 2 on the first floor and suite 9, a junior suite with balcony just above, are both located right over the water. All the bedrooms are lovely, even number 11, the smallest, tucked under the eaves with hillside views and a small balcony nestled in the roofline up against the turret. A favorite, number 1 is the largest, with windows on both sides and a dramatic bath with the Jacuzzi sunk into the turret round. There are many sightseeing destinations nearby and lots of activities on the property.