Dog friendly accommodation in France

What could be better than being able to take your whole family, dog included, for a relaxing holiday in France? From beautiful beaches to glorious vineyards, France has it all. 

As a pet-friendly travel company, LeShuttle offers you and your dog a stress-free Channel crossing, with the ability to stay together for the whole journey. We have a pet reception, and even a designated dog walking area! 

Is France dog-friendly?

France is generally more dog friendly than the UK. If you are using public transport, or eating and drinking in cafés, bars and restaurants you will find a more relaxed environment for you and your dog. Hotels in France, holiday homes, guest houses, gîtes and villas are more welcoming to dogs than you might be used to, but each will have its own rules. You should always check before you book, and some accommodation providers may be more flexible than their booking engine listings suggest. 

Here are a few ideas for dog friendly accommodation in northern France, the Loire Valley and the Cote d’Azur.

Accommodation in northern France

Le château de mon Père, Villiers-aux-Corneilles

‘My Father’s Castle’ offers comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in a renovated 13th -century château. Guests are treated to a taste of history during their stay here, in a building that includes a grand staircase and a moat. The large, spacious rooms offer peace and quiet and views over the château’s extensive grounds, where picnics can be taken. Situated around 45 minutes drive from Troyes, Villiers-aux-Corneilles is in the heart of the Champagne region. Dogs are welcome upon request. 

Château du Comte, Normandy

Occupying a lofty position on the Cotentin Peninsular, a few miles from the bustling port of Cherbourg, Château du Comte sleeps up to 44 people in its 19 incredible bedrooms. In a house tastefully but traditionally decorated, you can sleep or bathe under its ancient wooden eaves, or relax in one of the rambling lounges. This is a property for large group bookings, so is ideal for extended family gatherings or large groups of friends with children. Pets are welcome here. 

Domaine du Pont Farmhouse, Normandy

Convenient for visiting the Bayeux Tapestry and the delightful harbour town of Honfleur, Domaine du Pont is another Normandy delight for dog lovers! The 17th-century farmhouse and gardens has space for up to 10 guests in its five bedrooms, with a living area, characterful kitchen and dining room for those family feasts. There is a chateau in the estate which has hosted the Dalai Lama and the Aga Khan and can also be rented. However, the farmhouse would meet most expectations! 

Chateau Alphonse, Seine-Maritime

Holiday homes don’t come much more elegant than Chateau Alphonse, a classic 19th-century château in an 18 hectare estate in the Seine-Maritime region of Normandy. There are six bedrooms available here, for up to 12 guests, as well as a gym, TV room and indoor games room. In this beautiful part of Normandy you are surrounded by forests, orchards, rivers and idyllic villages, including Lyons-la-Forêt and Gerberoy, two of France’s famous ‘Beaux Villages’. 

Dog friendly accommodation in the Côte d'Azur

Hotel Le Provençal, Var

Situated at the tip of the Giens Peninsula in the Var department of the Côte d’Azur, Hotel Le Provençal is a pet-friendly slice of paradise. With panoramic views of the Hyeres islands in the Mediterranean, the hotel is moderately priced for its location, and also boasts a swimming pool set into the rocks, tennis court, three restaurants and a private beach area. 

La Toison d'Or - Riviera Villages, Ramatuelle

If you are looking for an exclusive spot for your pet-friendly retreat, it would be hard to find anywhere quite like La Toison d’Or. These private lodges are set on the long sandy stretch of the French Riviera’s famous Pampelonne beach, around a 10-minute drive from Saint-Tropez. Each lodge has a jacuzzi, with guests able to access the resort’s swimming pool, spa, gym and programme of fitness and wellness activities. Dogs are allowed for an additional charge per day during your stay, and must be kept on a lead at all times. 

La Pinede Plage, La Croix-Valmer

Your pooch could get used to this! La Pinede Plage is a beach front hotel on the Baie de Cavalaire stretch of the Riviera coast, around the peninsula from Saint-Tropez. The rooms with a sea view are glorious, and guests benefit from a private beach, swimming pool and wellness centre. Small dogs on leads are welcome at La Pinede Plage at a daily supplement, although not allowed at the pool or beach. 

Le Domaine des Carmes & Spa, Le Thor 

We have moved inland for this next pet-friendly hotel near the world-famous medieval city of Avignon. Le Domaine des Carmes & Spa offers comfortable accommodation with a wealth of services and facilities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre. Dogs are allowed by prior request, with a charge pay day. There is a homely feel to Le Domaine des Carmes & Spa and it is a great base to explore this captivating area of Provençe.

Dog friendly accommodation in the Loire Valley

Escale Des Châteaux de la Loire, Angé 

To call this ‘just’ a dog friendly campsite in the central Loire valley would be like saying there are a few ‘nice’ vineyards in this part of France! Escale Des Châteaux de la Loire offers a range of accommodation options, such as authentic Indian tipis, Mongolian yurts, forest huts, caravans and even fairy tale cabins! The campsite is beautifully situated on the banks of the Cher river between Ange and the troglodyte village of Bourré. 

Loire Valley Lodges, Touraine

Less than two hours from Paris, in the heart of Loire chateau country, you will find Loire Valley Lodges, a magical lodge hotel set in a private forest. Guests have the choice of art and nature themed lodges, each with their own terrace and spa perched amid the trees. There is private and public space here, with the hotel providing a swimming pool, bar and restaurant. Breakfasts are delivered every morning to the foot of each lodge, and pulled up on a pulley system! 

Le Clos du Roc, Montlouis-sur-Loire

Le Clos du Roc is a guest house in a former château offering a comfortable and relaxing stay in the winemaking town of Montlouis-sur-Loire. Le Clos du Roc enjoys views over the river and is close to all local amenities. Dogs and cats are allowed upon request except in certain suites. 

Top tips when travelling with your dog

There are a few things to remember when embarking on a long road journey with your dog: 

• Restrain your dog in a harness or carrier

• Make sure they have access to water 

• Stop regularly to give your dog some exercise 

• Check for signs of motion sickness  

• Pack their favourite blanket or bed, treats and medication 

• Remember their EU pet passport or animal health certificate 

Travel to your dog-friendly accommodation with LeShuttle

Taking your dog with you is one of the great things about travelling by car to France. As you can see, there is no shortage of accommodation options once you’re there! 

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