There is something fascinating about abandoned hotels: these places that once welcomed travelers passing through are now frozen in time, often left at the mercy of the elements and nature. These buildings, once luxurious or simply functional, are today silent witnesses to the history and evolution of their regions. Here is a selection of ten abandoned hotels in France , places full of mystery and nostalgia. Remember that some of these places can be dangerous or forbidden to access. It is therefore important to respect the laws and safety during your explorations.
1. The Grand Hotel of Saint-Jean-d'Arvey (Savoie)
Located at the foot of the Bauges massif, the Grand Hôtel de Saint-Jean-d'Arvey opened its doors at the beginning of the 20th century. Abandoned for decades, this once prestigious hotel is now in ruins. The stone facades are overgrown with vegetation, and the dilapidated interior preserves traces of a glorious past.
2. The Belvedere Hotel of the Green Ray (Pyrénées-Orientales)
The Hôtel du Belvédère du Rayon Vert , located in Cerbère near the Spanish border, was built in the 1930s. This unique art deco hotel also housed a cinema and a theater. Closed for several decades, it is partially accessible during guided tours, and its imposing architecture makes it a must-see place for Urbex and architectural heritage enthusiasts.
3. The Grand Hotel of the Forest (Meuse)
The Grand Hôtel de la Forêt , nestled in a lush forest in the Meuse, was once a popular holiday resort for aristocrats in the early 20th century. Today, its corridors and rooms are empty, and nature has invaded the place. The large bay windows, once open to the forest, are now broken and let in the elements.
4. The Hotel Regina (Ardennes)
The Hôtel Régina , located in Charleville-Mézières, has been closed for decades. This small hotel, although modest, was a central place in the city. Today, the hotel is abandoned and in ruins, with its deserted rooms and crumbling staircases. A fascinating site for those who love places full of history.
5. The Thermal Park Hotel (Hautes-Pyrénées)
Once a renowned establishment for welcoming spa guests, the Hôtel du Parc Thermal in Cauterets is now abandoned. The thermal baths, once in full swing, are now deserted, and the dilapidated buildings bear witness to the decline of spas in the Pyrenees. The place offers a unique atmosphere, between nature and ruined architecture.
6. The Marine Hotel (Finistère)
Built in the early 20th century in Roscoff, the Hôtel de la Marine was once a popular establishment for travelers and sailors. Closed in the 1990s, it has since been abandoned. The ruined rooms, with sea views, are now overgrown with vegetation, and the hotel's facade shows signs of advanced wear, but remains a magnificent vestige of the era.
7. The Grand Hotel de l’Europe (Vosges)
The Grand Hôtel de l'Europe , located in Plombières-les-Bains, was a luxurious establishment that once attracted celebrities who came to enjoy the thermal cures. Closed for several decades, it is now in ruins. Its large reception rooms, its immense central staircase and its deserted rooms give a glimpse of the past grandeur of this prestigious hotel.
8. The Palace of Evaux (Allier)
The Palace des Evaux , located near Vichy, was a thermal hotel built in the 1920s to accommodate spa guests who came to enjoy the benefits of the region's waters. Abandoned for several decades, the building is now dilapidated, but its monumental façade makes it an emblematic place for Urbex enthusiasts.
9. The Mont Serein Hotel (Vaucluse)
Located on the slopes of Mont Ventoux, the Hôtel du Mont Serein closed its doors in the 1970s. This mountain hotel, which once offered breathtaking views of the valley, is now a ghostly place. Its rooms are invaded by dust and nature, and the place is difficult to access, which adds to its mystery.
10. The Grand Hotel of Cabourg (Calvados)
The Grand Hôtel de Cabourg was once one of the most beautiful hotels on the Normandy coast. Closed for decades, it is now abandoned. Its vast corridors, deserted rooms and Belle Époque architecture make it an ideal place to explore. Although access is often restricted, it remains an emblematic figure of Normandy's hotel heritage.
Conclusion
These ten abandoned hotels in France are silent witnesses to the evolution of lifestyles and tourism practices. Each of them tells a unique story, between luxury, prestige and decline. These places, although often frozen in time, attract Urbex enthusiasts for their unique atmosphere. It is essential to remember that access to these places is often restricted or prohibited, and that safety must always be a priority when exploring abandoned sites. Respect the laws and private property, and explore these fascinating places with caution.
