Once an 18th-century Norman manor house, the Hotel l'Ecrin -- with its pretty shuttered facade, intricate wrought iron detailing, and stately neo-classical portico -- has retained plenty of the property's original elegant grandeur. Through a pair of tall, wooden doors, however, the interiors are lavish beyond expectations. The reception alone is awash with richly decorated period furnishings, thick red velvet tasseled drapery, and numerous antiquities and exotic curios, all overlooked by an impressive and intricately carved white-stone fireplace. Even more extravagant displays of opulence can be seen in the hotel's dining room and lounge, while an elegantly spiraling staircase connects immaculately finished crimson hallways illuminated by cut-glass chandeliers. Despite its wall of geraniums, the rear conservatory is comparatively drab, though it does overlook a tranquil garden comprising of well-tended lawns, pretty flower beds, and another traditionally-styled, though much more restrained, relaxation lounge. The property also includes the mansion's former semi-timbered stables as well as another period building overlooking the hotel's parking lot. 

The hotel is located just off a narrow, quiet road in the heart of town of Honfleur, just five minutes' walk from its old picturesque port -- as frequently painted by the Impressionist painters of the time. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and patisseries within a short walk through the quaint medieval streets, while the pretty Notre-Dame de Grace church is a 10-minute walk away. Slightly further afield the golden sanded Plage du Butin is around 20 minutes away on foot, while further down the coast is Plage du Vasouy and other D-day landing beaches. Normandy's historic capital city, Rouen, is an hour away by car, while the French capital is at least two hours away.

The hotel has 30 rooms in all, 11 in the main buildings and the rest spread between two annexes (which are generally inferior -- some are even scruffy). Interior design varies in degrees of opulence, from Deluxe Rooms in the main building -- packed with sumptuous period furnishings and lavish decor -- to the more sober yet still traditional styling of Standard Annex Rooms. Bathrooms are all simple, modern, and clean, while in-room amenities include the standard free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Movie buffs might find it interesting that the Green Room is the one featured in François Truffaut's 1978 film La Chambre Verte.

Unusual for hotels in Honfleur, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool surrounded with sun loungers -- though it is heated it can be cold in the cooler months. Guests also have access to a nicely finished, modern spa area with sauna, steam room, and hot tub, although it's quite expensive and unstaffed. Breakfast is served each morning (for a fee) in the conservatory overlooking the garden, while relaxation can be found in two lounge areas or the hotel's billiards room with an antique table.  Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout and those arriving by car have access to free secure parking.