I remember the first time I planned a trip to France with my dog. I felt a mix of excitement and worry. Would the fancy places let my furry friend in? It turns out that France is a dream for pet owners. From the misty streets of the north to the sun-soaked Mediterranean, Luxury Dog Friendly Hotels in France are actually quite common. I want to share my personal journey through this beautiful country. I will show you where to stay, what to eat, and how to navigate the rules with your pup.
France has a special ranking for the best of the best called the Palace distinction. At this time, there are only about 30 to 31 of these elite hotels in the whole country. These spots are even better than five-star hotels. Many of them welcome pets with open arms. You just have to know which ones to pick.
Getting There: The Paws-port Experience
First of all, you have to get to France. If you fly from the United States or Canada, Air France is a popular choice. They have very specific rules. Small pets that weigh up to 8 kg (about 17 lbs), including their bag, can travel in the cabin with you. Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old for international flights. However, if your dog is heavier, they must go in the hold. Dogs weighing between 8 kg and 75 kg travel in a climate-controlled area under the plane. Additionally, if your dog is over 75 kg, they have to go as cargo.
I found out that certain breeds are not allowed to fly because of health risks. These include “flat-faced” dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers. On top of that, “attack” dogs like Pit Bulls are strictly forbidden. You will need a microchip, a rabies vaccination, and an official health certificate or an EU Pet Passport.
Starting in the North: Paris and Beyond
When I arrived in Paris, the sheer number of luxury pet friendly hotels france offers surprised me. I started my trip at Le Bristol Paris. This place is legendary. It is located on the famous Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré. They have a resident cat named Socrate who wears a fancy Goyard collar. My dog was treated like royalty here. They provided an embroidered mat and a gourmet menu with steak. Dogs up to 15 kg are welcome for a stay that costs around £1,500 per night.
Later, I moved to the Hôtel de Crillon on the Place de la Concorde. This is an 18th-century palace. It is truly beautiful. They allow dogs up to 10 kg for a fee of 50€ per night. They gave us food bowls, water bowls, and special sheets so the dog could sit on the furniture. Similarly, the Hôtel Balzac near the Champs-Élysées was a peaceful sanctuary. My Pomeranian, Gigi, loved the Eiffel Tower view from our suite. They charge 50€ a night for small dogs.
- Hôtel Plaza Athénée: They allow two small dogs for 40€ a day.
- Le Meurice: Located right by the Tuileries Gardens. They charge 35€ a day.
- Le Royal Monceau Raffles: No extra fee for pets up to 10 kg.
Paris is not just about hotels. You can take your dog to Michelin-starred restaurants. At Le Grand Vefour, the chef greeted my dog personally. Plus, Les Deux Magots is a great spot to sit outside and people-watch.
Exploring the Loire Valley
Gradually, I drove about 2.5 hours south of Paris to the Loire River Valley. This region is famous for its castles. It is the perfect place for a dog who loves to walk. I stayed at Les Bordes Estates. The guest rooms are like private bungalows. This makes it a great choice if you have a larger dog. There is so much room to roam.
However, you must be careful with the castles. Not all of them let dogs inside. I visited 19 different castles to see which ones were the best for us.
- Château d’Ussé: This is the “Sleeping Beauty” castle. Dogs are welcome everywhere.
- Château de Chenonceau: This is the most beautiful castle for me. Dogs must be on a leash in the gardens. You have to carry small ones inside the building.
- Château de Villandry: They have breathtaking gardens. Dogs are allowed on a lead in the gardens.
- Château de Chambord: This is the most magnificent castle. On the contrary, they have strict rules. Dogs are only allowed in the park on a leash, not in the main gardens.
Finally, I took a walk on the Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes trail. It is an 8 km path through vineyards. My dog had a blast running through the fields. It was a nice break from the busy cities.
Heading to the Mountains: Alpine Luxury
Next, I traveled to the French Alps. Some people think the mountains are only for winter, but they are great in the summer too. I found some of the best dog friendly hotels france has to offer in Courchevel.
La Sivolière in Courchevel 1850 is amazing. They have a “Dog Service.” They provide a basket that matches your room colors. Additionally, they have dog-sitters. You can leave your pup with them while you go skiing for 25€ per hour. They even take your dog for walks in the mountains.
In the Alps, you can find several other top spots:
- Four Seasons Hotel Megève: They give pets a welcome package with a bed and treats.
- Cheval Blanc Courchevel: This is a Palace hotel with a Givenchy spa.
- Le Chalet des Cimes: Located in La Plagne. They charge a pet supplement of 84€.
- Hameau du Kashmir: Located in Val Thorens. The pet fee here is 154€.
The fresh air and the wide-open spaces are perfect for a dog. Therefore, the Alps should be on every pet owner’s list.
Stopping in Dijon and Lyon
Later, I made my way toward the south, stopping in Dijon and Lyon. In Dijon, the Grand Hôtel La Cloche is the top luxury choice. It has a beautiful courtyard. Right next door is Hôtel Vertigo. It is modern and very comfortable.
Similarly, Lyon has great options. The Hôtel Fourvière is a former 19th-century convent. It is very peaceful. If you want a view, the Radisson Blu Hotel is in one of the tallest buildings in the city. They are very close to the train station, which is very convenient if you are traveling by rail.
I also visited Cognac. The Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa was a highlight. They greeted my dog with a plush bed and two bottles of Evian water. They do charge a small daily fee for pets, even service animals.
The Sun-Soaked South: The French Riviera
Gradually, the weather got warmer as I reached the French Riviera. This is the land of glamour and beaches. Luxury dog-friendly hotels are everywhere here. I spent 8 days exploring the coast.
In Cannes, I stayed at Le Majestic Barrière. It is right on the Croisette boardwalk. They charge 70€ per day for pets. It is the perfect spot for a morning walk by the sea.
In Antibes, the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc is a dream. It is one of the official Palace hotels. For a more boutique feel, I liked the hotels near the Cap d’Antibes coastal trail.
Saint-Tropez is also very welcoming.
- Hôtel Byblos: A legendary spot that has hosted many stars.
- Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez: Another Palace with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Château de la Messardière: A beautiful castle-like hotel.
I visited the Plage des Ponchettes in Nice. It is a dog-friendly beach where pups can swim in the waves. On top of that, the Jardin Exotique in Monaco allows dogs. It is a botanical garden with amazing views of the harbor.
Finally, I visited Château l’Hospitalet in Narbonne. It is a vineyard resort. They have a massive amount of outdoor space. It is very close to the beach too. It was a great way to end my trip.
Essential Tips for Your Journey
Writing about this trip makes me want to go back. Therefore, I want to give you some final advice.
- Check the Fees: Most luxury hotels charge a fee. This can range from 35€ to 154€ per night.
- Weight Limits: Many hotels in Paris only allow dogs under 10 kg or 15 kg.
- Vaccinations: Your dog must be up to date on rabies shots.
- Crates and Carriers: If you fly, your crate must be IATA-approved.
- Restaurant Times: In smaller towns like the Loire Valley, restaurants often close between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.. Plan your meals carefully!
Traveling with a dog requires extra planning. However, the memories you make are worth it. France is a country that loves dogs. The staff at these luxury hotels will often treat your pet like a VIP. They might even remember your dog’s name better than yours!
“Travelling with a pet can often be more complex than it seems,” says one travel expert. But when you find the right luxury dog friendly hotels northern france or the south coast has to offer, it becomes a joy.
My dog Calvin loved the country walks and the swims in the Loire River. He even liked the fancy hotel beds. Gradually, you will find that your dog becomes a great travel partner.
French hospitality is about making everyone feel at home. This includes your four-legged family members. So, pack your bags and your dog’s favorite toy. France is waiting for you both.
Every trip has an end. Therefore, my journey from Rouen to the south coast finished with a happy dog and a tired owner. I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure.
Traveling across France with a dog is like a long dance. You have to follow the steps and the rules, but the music is beautiful. Your pup will be the star of the show. Additionally, you will see the country in a whole new way. Happy travels!
FAQ
Can I take my pet bird to France?
You may bring up to five pet birds per family into the country. These birds must stay in isolation for thirty days before you leave or pass a specific health test.
Does Air France fly exotic pets like rabbits?
Air France does not allow exotic pets such as rabbits, reptiles, or hamsters in the cabin or the hold. Their policy only permits dogs and cats to fly under specific conditions.
What is an EU Pet Passport?
This is a document from a veterinarian in the European Union that holds the official health details for a dog, cat, or ferret. It makes travel between different European Union member states much easier.
Are there special menus for dogs at hotels?
Some high-end hotels offer a room service menu just for pets. The Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa provides this special service for both dogs and cats.
Concluding words
A trip across France with your dog provides a high-end experience with luxury stays and historic tours. You must fly your pet via Air France with a microchip and valid health papers. Visit legendary Palace hotels in Paris and beautiful gardens in the Loire Valley.
France treats your pet like a VIP from the mountain spas of the Alps to the sunny beaches of the Riviera. Plan your next dream vacation with your furry friend right now.
