Moulin De Connelles

A Serene Escape: A Comprehensive Review of Moulin de Connelles (Michelin Key Selected Property)

Nestled discreetly in a picturesque bend of the Seine, Moulin de Connelles offers an idyllic retreat in the heart of Normandy, earning its selection by the Michelin Guide for its charm and exceptional experience. This enchanting 4-star manor house, originally a centuries-old water mill, has been transformed into a haven of tranquility, blending historic elegance with natural beauty.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for Moulin de Connelles is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "excellent," "beautiful," and "charming." Review platforms indicate high satisfaction, with Hotels.com showing exceptional ratings for cleanliness (9.0), location (9.8), and staff & service (9.6). Guests consistently praise the hotel's ability to provide a truly relaxing and serene experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests are particularly captivated by the hotel's stunning setting, featuring a private island situated between two arms of the Seine and surrounded by a 3-hectare wooded park. The heated outdoor swimming pool (seasonal, June to September) and direct access to the river enhance the tranquil atmosphere. The elegant design, the delicious and refined cuisine, and the notably warm and professional staff are consistently highlighted as key differentiators. Many appreciate the opportunity for activities like rowing on the Seine or relaxing in the beautiful gardens.

3. Room Quality

Moulin de Connelles boasts 12 stylishly decorated rooms and suites, each meticulously designed to ensure utmost comfort and tranquility. These rooms often provide picturesque views of the Seine River, the surrounding hillside, or the charming Ile du Moulin. Embodying a blend of elegance and quaint charm, the rooms are furnished with antiques, and some feature sloping ceilings, inviting reading nooks, private balconies, or luxurious Jacuzzis. Guests frequently comment on the "perfect" bedding.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Moulin de Connelles is a significant draw. The hotel's chef and team offer delicious and refined French cuisine, focusing on local Normandy products. Dinner is a romantic affair, served by candlelight in an intimate dining room adorned with blond oak paneling, Baccarat crystal chandeliers, and an art exhibition, or in a glass-enclosed veranda overlooking the Seine. During warmer seasons, lunches can be enjoyed al fresco on the Ile du Moulin, right by the water. The chef presents a "Flavors Menu" (around €59 excluding drinks), based on market availability and inspiration, and reservations are essential due to limited capacity.

Breakfast is described as a gourmet experience, featuring homemade local products and served in the veranda, on the terrace, or directly in the guest rooms. For a more casual option, "Le Comptoir," a bistro located just a two-minute walk away, offers simple preparations like gourmet burgers and pizzas in a relaxed atmosphere.

5. Service & Staff

The hospitality at Moulin de Connelles receives widespread acclaim. Guests consistently praise the staff for their warmth, friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness, often describing them as being "aux petits soins" (very caring). The owner/manager, Mme Karine, is particularly noted for her charm, excellent management, and helpful recommendations for exploring the area. This personalized and attentive service significantly contributes to the memorable experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel's location is a major highlight. Moulin de Connelles is serenely situated in a bend of the Seine, offering calm and seclusion while remaining easily accessible, just an hour from Paris and Deauville, and 30 minutes from Rouen. It serves as an ideal base for exploring a wealth of regional attractions, including Claude Monet's Garden at Giverny (approximately 39 minutes by car), Etretat, Château du Champ de Bataille, the D-Day Beaches, Versailles, Château Gaillard, and the majestic Lyons Forest. The property offers free self-parking.

7. Value & Pricing

While specific room rates are not readily available in the search results, the hotel is generally considered to offer excellent value for its quality and unique experience. Guests should note that continental breakfast is an additional charge (approximately EUR 27 for adults, EUR 15 for children), and a city tax of EUR 1.10 per person per night applies for guests over 18. Pet-friendly, the hotel charges EUR 22 per pet per night. The chef's "Flavors Menu" is priced at €59 excluding drinks.

8. Common Complaints

The most frequently mentioned point for travelers to consider is the absence of an elevator. As the rooms and suites are spread across two floors overlooking the Seine, guests should be prepared to carry their luggage up stairs. Additionally, the hotel operates seasonally, typically from April to November. Guests planning a stay should also be aware that the hotel's main restaurant is closed for lunch on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Sources

1. moulin-de-connelles.fr
2. michelin.com
3. booking.com
4. moulin-de-connelles.fr
5. michelin.com
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8. hotels.com
9. moulin-de-connelles.fr
10. hotels.com
11. moulin-de-connelles.fr
12. giverny.org
13. expedia.com