I adored Belle Isle sur Risle. It is such a relaxing place, The staff were so welcoming and accommodating (with the exception of one or two members who were less than friendly, but they were easily outshone by the others who were exceptionally kind.) When we discovered that they were fully booked for massages, they went out of their way to hire a second masseur so we would not be disappointed. I have read some reviews which said the hotel was tired and in need of refurbishment, but this is an authentic French country house and so, whilst not pristine throughout, has all the charms which come with that and for me make it preferable to somewhere more corporate and less personal. We didn't get chance to eat in the restaurant but did have breakfast. As we only wanted coffee and a croissant, it worked out very expensive so we only went once, but there was a full array of cooked dishes, including dauphinoise potatoes and champagne on offer so that would justify the price. We stayed a week and found it was perfect to spend some days relaxing by the 2 pools, having our massages, canoeing on the river or using the bikes to go into Pont-Audemer (which is a really charming place with plenty of shops and places to eat). The location is wonderful for exploring Normandy and beyond so on other days we took off and saw the delights of Honfleur, Bayeux and Giverny, all with in really easy reach.
