Pierre & Vacances Resort Normandy Garden is a large, mid-range, self-contained holiday complex focused squarely on families with kids. Child-friendly facilities are excellent and wide-ranging, encompassing all ages from babies to teens. Although the "Village" is generally well-maintained, some of the standard-level rooms are dated and in need of a makeover. There is a water park with whirlpool, kids' pool, and heated pools. All in all, it might not be cheap for a holiday camp but the "VIP" accommodation is worth the extra outlay and a good value for larger groups.

This large, contemporary complex sits in a wooded park that's about an hour and a half from Paris, and a mile outside the small town of Forges-les-Eaux. It offers a large selection of features, including mini-golf, an adjacent lake with pedal boats, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a spa. The rooms here, some of which are slightly worn around the edges, are large, and comfortable, though a bit generic. There is a casino across the street, and plenty of handsome park grounds for lounging and strolling. The property tends to attract families and couples on vacation, but is also a venue for corporate retreats.

The Augeval Hotel is a mid-range property with 32 rooms spread over two buildings. Exteriors are charming and traditional and the garden and pool area are small but pleasant, but some interiors could use a little love. The hotel is located within walking distance of most of Deauville's attractions and is a 10-minute walk to the beach. A modest spa, jetted tubs in some bathrooms, and 24-hour room service are unexpected extras for this level of hotel, and it's a good-value alternative to the many more expensive options closer to the beach.

The Hotel d'Argouges is a 28-room hotel housed in an attractive 18th-century townhouse in the center of historic Bayeux. Many of its traditionally styled rooms retain period features and somewhat dated floral decor, while bathrooms are more modern. The quiet garden and ornate breakfast room are particularly impressive -- though breakfast costs extra. As it's a historic property, the hotel lacks an elevator and some of the rooms have notably low ceilings. Overall, it's a well-positioned hotel with low rates -- but few amenities.

Hotel Gabriel stands out from its mid-range competition with trendy, fresh design and bright atmosphere. It’s across the street from the free shuttle to Mont Saint-Michel and within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Well-designed, organized rooms follow one-of-a-kind design schemes of blue and orange, though there's no air-conditioning. Free breakfast receives high marks from guests, and the hotel is pet friendly. Rooms can sleep up to five people, making this property popular with families.

The Adagio Caen Centre is an upper-middle-range, 120-apartment hotel set in the modern, and not particularly attractive, center of Caen. The picturesque historical center is just within walking distance, however, and it's easy access to and from the nearby train station. Apartments are smart and modern with excellent kitchens and bathrooms, though beds are a letdown. Overall, if you want self-catering close to the station at very reasonable rates, this place is a strong option -- just don't expect too much in the way of charm.