Sensus Design Studio

Hostellerie de levernois

OUR STAY AT:
HOSTELLERIE DE
LEVERNOIS

Gravel garden walk approaching Hostellerie de Levernois

AN 18th CENTURY
COUNTRY HOME
TURNED 5-STAR
BOUTIQUE HOTEL

In May 2024, we had the opportunity to stay at Hostellerie de Levernois, a boutique hotel just outside of Beaune, France. Our time at this 18th-century manor-turned-boutique-hotel was unforgettable for many reasons, including its beautiful gardens, architectural inspiration, and, of course, its Michelin-starred restaurant, led by Chef Philippe Augé. This property is a perfect example of design that envelops you in a curated environment, seamlessly blending the luxury of a country home with its natural surroundings.

Gravel garden walk approaching Hostellerie de Levernois

“TRAVEL MAKES ONE
MODEST. YOU SEE WHAT A
TINY PLACE YOU OCCUPY IN
THE WORLD.”

Garden path and topiary beside a shaded waterway

FRENCH COUNTRY
INSPIRATION AT EVERY
TURN

Upon arriving at the grounds, you might expect to find a vestibule or a grand front door, but instead, what greets you could easily be mistaken for the entrance to a public park. Once you pass the two understated gateposts, surrounded by lush greenery, a long, winding driveway leads you to a meticulously manicured courtyard at the base of a stunning French Country home. This main structure is a quintessential example of a Burgundian bourgeois residence, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary elements. The material palette reflects this harmony, featuring Burgundy stone, exposed beams, terracotta tiles, and cedar shakes.

Paired views of formal lawns and clipped garden hedges

EXPERIENTIAL
GARDENS POSITIONED
THROUGHOUT A
WOODED PARK

The grounds of this stunning hotel are nothing short of experiential, with every inch feeling lush and immersive. The presence of mature trees scattered throughout, along with the River Bouzaise running through the expansive 17-acre property, enhances the serene atmosphere. Topiary, a luxurious swimming pool and tanning deck, and uniquely sculpted cedar hedges forming archways further contribute to the experience. The evening lighting plan was also incredible—I only regret not having taken photos of it.

Straight gravel walk between low hedges and tall topiary
Straight gravel walk between low hedges and tall topiary

“ONCE A YEAR, GO SOME
PLACE YOU’VE NEVER BEEN
BEFORE.”

Paired formal lawns and an archway cut through a hedgePaired views of a waterway and a curving topiary-lined pathGravel path leading toward clipped garden forms