Boutique B&B with pool nr Northern France Somme battlefields

And that’s probably because Villa Varentia is one of those rare finds where a perfect balance has been achieved between vintage elegance and modern touches. Here, on-trend blues and bronzes, velvet textures and modern art beautifully complement period features like the sweeping staircase, Art Deco windows, chequered parquet flooring, and ceilings so high you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a chic Parisian apartment.

Villa Varentia dates back to the 19th century, but the makeover bringing it into the 21st is all down to your host Alice-Anne, whose careful eye for detail extends to the bedrooms too; take a look at the beautifully appointed ‘Belle-de-Nuit’ and ‘Louise-Bonne’ rooms, each with a corner office, walk-in shower, flat screen TV, Wifi, welcome tray, luxury bedding and elegant bathroom fittings.

Once you’ve landed, you’ve got four blissful things to play with: unlimited use of the luxury heated pool and jacuzzi, a complimentary bottle of champagne and some appetisers, simply gorgeous gardens and a chic salon to relax in – so make the most of your time here. And if you just can’t bear to go out, there are two more indulgences you can tag on if you wish – simply ask Alice-Anne about booking up a massage, or a dinner hamper chock full of Northern France delicacies… you’re worth it!

After a good breakfast of all things French, fresh, local and homemade - including fruit juices and jams from Villa Varentia’s own orchard - you could think about heading out and about on Northern France’s poignant remembrance trail. Here, you’re right at the heart of the WW1 Somme battlefields so it’s the perfect place not just to self-educate on the conflict at the area’s most comprehensive museums and visitor centres, but also to pay your respects at the powerful and moving memorials; the Thiepval memorial, Historial-de-la-Grande-Guerre in Péronne, plus the Australian Memorial and Sir John Monash centre in Villers Bretonneux are all close by. If you’ve a little more time to play with and you’re drawn to city life, Amiens is only 20 minutes away by car. Don’t miss the unique and romantic ‘Hortillonnages’ floating gardens (by boat!), the characterful and colourful streets of the St Leu district and Amiens’ pièce de résistance: its soaring gothic cathedral.