The first thing to make clear is that this is not a hotel and not a B&B. In reality you are staying as guests, albeit paying guests, at the home of friends. If the hosts, Joe and Viv are not friends when you arrive, they will be by the time you leave. Joe and Viv are wonderfully kind people who... more

A truly wonderful place from which to see Normandy. Easy drives through lovely French countryside to D-Day beaches and museums and to Mont Saint Michael. GPS is a real asset. Joe and Viv are wonderful hosts and quickly become good friends. Viv is an excellent chef and prepared us a wonderful local seafood dinner--quite a bargain. Dogs, cats, black swans,... more

If you are traveling to Normandy to visit the American D-Day sites this is a terrific place to stay. Joe and Vivienne are wonderful hosts who instantly make you feel right at home. It was like visiting with old friends you've known forever. Even their two sweet dogs are happy to see you. The setting in the green Norman countryside... more

My wife and I had stayed before in this wonderful castle and could not wait to return. On doing so in April we were welcomed by Joe and Vivienne Helling (the proprietors) as if we were long lost family returning. Fantastic hosts, fantastic place. Vivs spectacular food should not be missed and Joe's hospitality and story telling are out there... more

Don't pass up an opportunity to stay here, and take the D-Day Tour Joe offers. We are glad we did. Joe and Vivienne are great hosts and the dogs and other animals enhance the ambiance of the castle and grounds. We recommend at least one dinner with them. You can stay in this castle for no more than you would... more

My wife and i stayed at la ducrie for two nights recently. The whole experience was simply fantastic. The setting of the property and even more importantly the unbelievable hospitality of the hosts joe and vivienne made for an unforgettable holiday experience. We were even lucky enough to sample a wonderful 5 star meal with the hosts and other guests.... more

My wife and I discovered Le Ducrie on a web search site and booked it for 2 nights in March. Once arriving from our drive from Paris we were amazed at the accomodations. It is a real castle structure yet it is nicely updated and comfortable. The location is in the countryside and is very peaceful. Joe and Vivian, the... more

My husband and I stayed at La Ducrie in March 2008 for three nights and it was a major highlight of our 17 day stay In France. We truly wish we had booked more time there. We only have rave reviews for the castle itself and even more for the owners, Joe and Vivienne Helling. They are friendly and funny... more

The Dudley's - Fontenille - Mansle - Charente If ever you breakdown with an old Morris Minor Traveller (or any other vehicle) make sure it is in the vicinity of "La Ducrie" - we were taken there when our 1956 Morris broke down and it was the best mini break I have experienced . The grounds and the castle were... more