A REMARKABLE PLACE TO STAY...

Many years ago - when people would escape polluted cities to “take in the sea air” - the French island of Il de Re is likely what they were after.

- AS NAOMI DE SOUZA DISCOVERS

Today, at the entrance of the port of Saint-Martin-de-Re, the historic capital of the island, lies chic seaside guesthouse Hotel De Toiras that would have seen plenty of such fugitives.

Located on the cobblestone seafront it has painstakingly designed rooms with many stories to tell, much like the hotel's delightful staff. This charming old-style hotel is laidback but precise - French hospitality at its best.

Toiras’ conscientious team oversees 18 rooms and a handful at Villa Clarisse & Spa, the sister boutique property around the corner.

STYLE

Historic luxury is the theme in this converted 17th-century shipowner’s house.