Résidence de Rohan, while built in 1887, features an impressive history because of its previous owners. This seaside estate was originally known as Villa des Fées, commissioned by César-Augustin de La Brousse, the Marquis of Verteillac. The La Brouss de Verteillacs were a notable noble lineage with properties around France tied to their name, such as Château du Fou in Vouneuil-sur-Vienne and Château du Parterre in Dourdan.

After the Marquis's passing, the estate was inherited by his daughter, Herminie de La Brousse de Verteillac. She would later become known as the Princess of Léon upon her marriage to Alain de Rohan-Chabot, Prince of Léon. When her husband inherited the title of Duke of Rohan, so too did she become the Duchess of Rohan.

In 1925, Villa des Fées was acquired by Léopold Pouvreau, who divided the estate into three properties. Later, in 1931, the estate was opened as a hotel, though it was soon requisitioned by the German Military during their occupation of France.

The Seguin-Ouvrard family bought the estate and hotel in 1980 and has remained in their hands since. They not only restored the manor, but also expanded it. Under their care, the estate has retained much of its century-old charm while providing excellent modern hospitality.

Although the main building of Résidence de Rohan was built during the 1880s, it eschews the ornate embellishments of that era's architecture for more fanciful elements. The soft colors, topiary-covered walls, and dollhouse-like design could be considered intentional as the estate's original name was Villa des Fées, meaning house of the fairies.

Inside is where guests will find the Belle Époque influences. Even though the Seguin-Ouvrards have modernized the hotel, they still sought to preserve and pay homage to its esteemed past residents. Contemporary furnishing and period-style fixtures complement actual antique items such as dressers, tables, and pianos.

As for the annex building, it is a more recent addition to the property, built in the 1990s. Despite being newer, it has a more rustic ambiance and architecture befitting a seaside hotel.

Breakfast

While Résidence de Rohan does not have an on-site restaurant, there is a breakfast hall open for service every morning. For a fee of 17 EUR (20 USD) for adults and 8 EUR (10 USD) for children, guests can start their day energized with a hearty continental buffet.

Availability: 7:30 am - 10:30 am

Lounge Bar

For guests who love to enjoy a tipple, the hotel also has an on-site bar. Featuring a relaxing lounge design, travelers can unwind with their favorite drink and use the space as a place to socialize. Choose from their selection of cocktails, mocktails, and hot beverages such as tea. There's also a wine list personally curated by the hotel's owner.

Résidence de Rohan sits right next to Nauzan Beach and even provides direct access to guests via a walkway from the gardens to the shore. If you're looking for more adventures, however, the concierge will be glad to assist in booking a variety of activities such as hiking and biking tours, visits to local museums and art galleries, as well as watersports like windsurfing.

The area around Vaux-sur-Mer also offers a variety of attractions worth visiting. If you want to charter a boat for exploring the Bay of Biscay, don't forget to snap some photos at the Cordouan Lighthouse, known as the oldest lighthouse in France and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.