Le Lion d'Or was originally an 18th-century post office before becoming the headquarters of the English press during the Second World War -- former President Eisenhower even allegedly stayed there. (Other notable past guests, according to the framed photographs lining the walls of Le Lion d'Or's bar, include Charles de Gaulle, the Kennedy, Ernest Hemingway, Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Catherine Deneuve.) The property has maintained its simple and charming Normandy-style facade with floral window boxes, striped awnings, and typical gray-slate roof all set in a cobbled courtyard off the main street. Stepping inside, visitors are met with a chic and sweet with reception area with a velvet sofa, light gray wingback armchairs, paneled walls, and a coffee table set with flowers, candles, and vintage blue seltzer bottles. The lobby is flanked by the hotel's bar/lounge with ample leather seating and a decorative fireplace and its popular, traditionally styled restaurant.

Le Lion D'or is situated in a courtyard just off Bayeux's main street in the town's historical center. The museum that holds the famous Bayeux Tapestry is less than a five-minute walk away, while the impressive Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral is just over five minutes on foot. Pretty much all of the town's historical attractions are within walking distance, while further afield the D-Day landing beaches are within 15 minutes' drive and the city of Caen is 25 minutes by car.

The hotel has 31 rooms, most of which are individually styled in sophisticated pale gray tones with modern furnishings and traditional touches. Rooms are spacious, especially for European standards. The Junior Suite includes a sitting area with a leather couch. Free Wi-Fi and large flat-screen TVs with satellite channels come standard. Contemporary bathrooms include walk-in showers, bowl sinks, wall-mounted modern hairdryers, and hotel-branded toiletries. 

The restaurant is a real focus of the hotel and offers a menu of fine dining inspired by Normandy cooking. Ingredients are all organic or locally sourced and guests can eat al fresco on the terrace during warmer weather, while there's a cozy lounge with a fireplace for when it gets chilly. A buffet breakfast is also available, though it's not always included in the rate. There is a meeting room that can accommodate up to 16 people, and Wi-Fi is free of charge throughout the hotel. Secure parking is also available on-site, though spaces are limited and there is a fee.