Abandoned hotels possess a certain fascination: these places, which once welcomed travelers, are now frozen in time, often left to the mercy of the elements and nature. These buildings, once luxurious or simply functional, are now silent witnesses to the history and evolution of their regions. Here is a selection of ten abandoned hotels in France , places imbued with mystery and nostalgia. Remember that some of these locations may be dangerous or off-limits. It is therefore important to respect the law and safety guidelines during your explorations.
1. The Grand Hotel of Saint-Jean-d'Arvey (Savoie)
Located at the foot of the Bauges mountains, 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 still bears witness to a glorious past.
2. The Hôtel du Belvédère du Rayon Vert (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 theatre. Closed for several decades, it is partially accessible through guided tours, and its imposing architecture makes it a must-see for urban exploration enthusiasts and architectural heritage lovers.
3. The Grand Hotel de la Forêt (Meuse)
The Grand Hôtel de la Forêt , nestled in a lush forest in the Meuse region, was once a popular holiday destination for aristocrats in the early 20th century. Today, its corridors and rooms are empty, and nature has reclaimed the place. The large bay windows, once open onto the forest, are now broken, letting in the elements.
4. The Hotel Regina (Ardennes)
The Hôtel Régina , located in Charleville-Mézières, has been closed for decades. This small, though modest, hotel was once a central landmark in the city. Today, the hotel is abandoned and in ruins, with deserted rooms and crumbling staircases. A fascinating site for those who appreciate places steeped in history.
5. The Hôtel du Parc Thermal (Hautes-Pyrénées)
Once a renowned spa town, the Hôtel du Parc Thermal in Cauterets now lies abandoned. The thermal baths, once bustling with activity, are now deserted, and the crumbling buildings bear witness to the decline of spa towns in the Pyrenees. The place offers a unique atmosphere, a blend of nature and ruined architecture.
6. The Hôtel de la Marine (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 left to decay. The ruined rooms, with their sea views, are now overgrown with vegetation, and the hotel's facade shows signs of advanced deterioration, but it remains a magnificent vestige of its era.
7. The Grand Hotel de l'Europe (Vosges)
The Grand Hôtel de l'Europe , located in Plombières-les-Bains, was once a luxurious establishment that attracted prominent figures seeking the thermal baths. Closed for several decades, it now lies in ruins. Its grand reception rooms, immense central staircase, and deserted bedrooms hint at the former grandeur of this prestigious hotel.
8. The Palace of Evaux (Allier)
The Palace des Evaux , located near Vichy, was a spa hotel built in the 1920s to accommodate visitors seeking the benefits of the region's waters. Abandoned for several decades, the building is now dilapidated, but its monumental facade makes it an iconic location for urban explorers.
9. The Hotel du Mont Serein (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 overgrown with dust and vegetation, and the location is difficult to access, adding to its mystique.
10. The Grand Hotel in Cabourg (Calvados)
The Grand Hôtel de Cabourg was once one of the most beautiful hotels on the Normandy coast. Closed for decades, it now lies abandoned. Its vast corridors, deserted rooms, and Belle Époque architecture make it an ideal place for exploration. Although access is often restricted, it remains an iconic example of Normandy's hotel heritage.
Conclusion
These ten abandoned hotels in France stand as silent witnesses to the evolution of lifestyles and tourism practices. Each tells a unique story, a tale of luxury, prestige, and decline. These places, though often frozen in time, attract urban explorers with their unique atmosphere. It is essential to remember that access to these locations is often restricted or prohibited, and that safety must always be a priority when exploring abandoned sites. Respect the law and private property, and explore these fascinating places with caution.
