Boulogne sur mer.

Seafront opposite Le Matelote

Once a popular holiday resort and a somewhat interesting town, and once gateway port on the channel crossing to the UK.

Calais just 20 minutes along the coast now boasts huge port facilities and parking areas for hundreds of cars waiting their place on a ferry travelling to Dover in England.  Some years ago ferries also offered passengers and motorists the choice of the Boulogne-Dover crossing.

As it often happens that an early start for Grande Bretagne from France makes an overnight stay convenient, or perhaps a momentary reluctance to return to the Englishness of England, or, perhaps an evening meal at a Michelin star-awarded restaurant and a room with a sea view looking towards England…a treat before returning from a European motoring holiday, then ladies and gentleman,  I propose a night at La Matelote on the seafront of Boulogne and a taste of something special and considered in its restaurant.

An indoor pool is manageable as an exercise ingredient, but rather small.

Parking can be booked in one of several lock up garages behind the hotel, which each have direct access to the hotel and individual remote control garage door openers which put you in a real “residence” mood.

Boulogne's La Matelote - a bedroom

Rooms are smart, well fitted, with good bathrooms. Green and brass colours, with polished wood in the best rooms give a quality marine yacht feel.

Parking in the select garages is charged extra (12 Euros a night when we stayed)

WiFi is free.

This is a four star hotel and I’d say the only quality one in Boulogne.

So for a pleasing, fine decor, for comfort and quality dining and a pause on your way from France to the UK book your stay at La Matelote