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ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE
LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE

ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE, LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE
ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE, LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE
ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE, LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE
ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE, LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE
ABBAYE DE LA BUSSIERE, LA BUSSIERE-SUR-OUCHE

In a word: outstanding.

And not just because the Cummings family had distinguished ‘previous’ at the luxurious Amberley Castle Hotel before they sold to von Essen (RIP). Neither is it that, as British owners, they understand fully how to enchant Anglophone customers. Rather, it’s down to the fact that they are masters at identifying the potential of a classically elegant site and then investing extensively to meet the demands of the most fastidious guest. They appear also to have unrivalled expertise in hiring and inspiring talented, discreet and courteous young people to help them create a serene and stylishly informal ambience.

Here are the basics: a Cistercian Abbey dating from 1131. Frescoes restored by local craftsmen. A 15 acre parc with a little boat for you to row on the lake. Three splendid lounges furnished with exquisite taste. Whirlpool baths for every spacious bedroom. A fine restaurant where recently-appointed chef Emmanuel Hébrard (erstwhile sous-chef to the previous encumbent, Olivier Elzer) is making his mark. A bistro to serve a simpler menu at lunchtime. Staff who anticipate your every need before you realise what would be nice.

Faultless? As near as dammit. The occasional niggle about humping luggage up two flights of stairs if the receptionist happens to be female; and perhaps the restaurant can occasionally take itself a bit too seriously. But nothing really detracts from the overall mood of well-being.