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Tucked away in the heart of Brittany’s emerald coastline, Le Grand Hôtel des Bains is quickly becoming the worst-kept secret among British holidaymakers. What’s drawing them in? This Brittany resort offers all-inclusive perks that are distinctly French, distinctly luxurious, and refreshingly different from the cookie-cutter resorts you’re used to. The 19th-century mansion sits proudly on Saint-Malo’s historic seafront, where centuries-old granite walls meet modern luxury in a way that’s capturing British travelers’ imaginations.
Unlike typical all-inclusive resorts that often feel mass-produced and impersonal, this gem of hospitality has managed to preserve its authentic Breton character while offering perks that make even the most seasoned travelers raise their eyebrows in pleasant surprise.
A Five-Star Experience That Won’t Break the Bank
Gone are the days when “all-inclusive” meant mediocre buffets and watered-down drinks. This stunning 19th-century mansion-turned-resort in Saint-Malo has reinvented the concept. Your stay includes access to their Michelin-starred restaurant Les Maisons de Bricourt, where Chef Olivier Roellinger transforms local seafood into culinary masterpieces. The best part? You’re not limited to set menus or specific dining times. Order what you want, when you want it. The restaurant’s sommelier has curated an extensive wine list, and yes, even the finest bottles are included in your package.
Beyond the Traditional Package
The resort’s interpretation of “all-inclusive” extends far beyond meals. Your stay includes private cooking classes with local chefs who’ll teach you the secrets of Breton cuisine. Imagine mastering the perfect galette or learning how to select and prepare the freshest seafood from Saint-Malo’s famous fish market. The classes are intimate, and limited to six guests, ensuring you get personal attention and insider tips you won’t find in any cookbook.
The hotel’s fleet of vintage cars is at your disposal for exploring nearby villages. Drive along the coast in a classic Citroën DS, stopping at hidden beaches and medieval towns most tourists never see. Each car comes with a pre-programmed GPS loaded with scenic routes and local secrets, from the best spots for sunset photos to family-run crêperies that have been perfecting their recipes for generations.
The Location: Your Gateway to Brittany’s Best-Kept Secrets
Saint-Malo itself is just the beginning. The hotel’s concierge service arranges personalized day trips to some of Brittany’s most enchanting destinations. In Dinan, a medieval jewel, you’ll wander through cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses with a private guide who knows all the secret spots where local artists sell their work. The guide will also introduce you to local craftsmen who still practice traditional Breton arts, from lacemaking to woodcarving.
In Cancale, the oyster capital of Brittany, your stay includes a private tour of the oyster beds and a tasting session with a local producer. Even if you think you don’t like oysters, this experience might change your mind. The producers share generations of knowledge about these prized mollusks, and you’ll learn why the unique tidal patterns of the bay create some of the world’s finest oysters.
The British Connection: Why Your Compatriots Are Raving
“It’s like they’ve read our minds,” says Sarah Thompson from Leeds, who visited last summer. “They understand what British travelers want – the luxury of an all-inclusive with none of the constraints. Plus, they serve proper tea.” The resort has cleverly adapted to British preferences while maintaining its authentic French character. You’ll find English-speaking staff throughout, but they’re just as happy to help you practice your French.
The bar stocks both fine French wines and an impressive selection of British gins, and the afternoon tea service rivals anything you’d find in London’s finest hotels. The resort even offers special programs during major British sporting events, so you won’t miss out on any crucial matches during your stay.
The Wellness Factor: Because Relaxation Shouldn’t Cost Extra
The resort’s spa treatments aren’t treated as extras but as essential parts of your stay. The thalassotherapy center uses seawater from the Atlantic for its treatments, and you get daily access to heated seawater pools, a traditional hammam, and a range of treatments including seaweed wraps and massages. The wellness program extends beyond the spa, with daily yoga classes on the beach, guided meditation sessions, and nutritional consultations with the resort’s health experts.
Seasonal Specialties That Keep Guests Coming Back
Each season brings its own special programs and experiences. In spring, join local foraging experts to gather wild herbs and edible flowers along the coast. Summer brings outdoor cinema nights in the garden, featuring classic films under the stars. Autumn is mushroom hunting season, with guided expeditions into nearby forests. Winter transforms the resort into a cozy retreat, with cooking workshops focused on hearty Breton specialties and storm-watching sessions from the comfort of the panoramic lounge.
Beyond the Ordinary: Exclusive Experiences
The resort’s connections in the region open doors to experiences you simply can’t book elsewhere. Private tours of local cideries, where you can blend your own bottle of Brittany’s famous apple cider. Exclusive access to local artists’ studios, where you can commission a piece inspired by your stay. Even sailing lessons with former America’s Cup competitors who now call Saint-Malo home.
Why Now is the Perfect Time to Book
With Brexit changing how Brits travel to Europe, this resort has positioned itself as a hassle-free option. They handle all the paperwork, arrange transportation from the nearest airports or train stations, and even provide a currency exchange service with no commission. The resort’s booking system allows for flexible dates and easy modifications, understanding that travel plans sometimes need to change.
A Taste of Tomorrow’s Luxury Today
This isn’t just another hotel stay – it’s a glimpse into the future of luxury travel. Where everything you could want isn’t just available, it’s included. The only question is: how soon can you get there? With bookings filling up fast for the upcoming season, the answer should be: very soon indeed.
I’ve always been captivated by Brittany’s unique charm, and I started this site to share my favourite spots and tips with fellow travellers. From exploring hidden beaches to experiencing local culture, I aim to provide practical advice and fresh perspectives on everything this destination has to offer.
