The main entrance to the hotel is from central Deauville, but there is a smaller entrance from the sea-facing side. The hotel, resembling an outsized Anglo-Norman manor, has sea-green half-timbering against white walls. Fairytale turrets are topped by handcrafted animals, from humpbacked cats to unicorns and monkeys. Inside, well-heeled couples, well-behaved children, celebrities (Michael Caine and Elizabeth Hurley have been guests) and, to a lesser extent, businesspeople can be seen in the soft-carpeted sitting area.

What to expect: Designed as a pied a terre for the international jet-set in 1913, this hotel opens for the annual polo and gaming highlights (mid-March through November) and New Year. Stars, well-heeled couples, and Parisians are not intimidated by the Palatial white facade with both sea and town entrances. The Belle Epoque interior features palm-tree chandeliers in the great hall, high-ceilings, and soft, patterned carpets.

Amenity highlights: Guests at the Royal Barrière can enjoy all the facilities of the adjoining Casino (over 18 years only; formal dress required). This white, palatial structure has warm scarlet interiors enclosing theater in the round (a replica of the Versailles Trianon), cinema, and games. Games include 200 roller machines and video poker, French Roulette, Black Jack, and billiards.

Insider tip: To find out the dazzling list of stars to have stayed in the hotel, guests should peruse the photographs lining the wooden-paneled Gallery - Pierce Brosnan, Johnny Depp, and John Malkovich to name but a few.

Reception opening hours: Monday - Friday 9 AM to noon and 3 PM to 7 PM. Saturday 8 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM. Sunday 10 AM to noon. Closed on Wednesdays.
Please note:
On arrival day, room keys can only be collected after 5 PM. Please notify the residence directly if you will be arriving after the reception is closed.
Bed linen, towels and television are not provided free of charge and can be hired locally.
Please note:
Apartments do not receive a daily cleaning/maid service. On departure, all apartments should be left clean and tidy. Alternatively, an end of cleaning service is provided by the residence which incurs a fee payable locally. Guests can also purchase cleaning kits from reception.

Reception opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9 AM to noon and 2 PM to 7 PM. Friday 9 AM to noon and 2 PM to 10 PM. Saturday 8 AM to 10PM. Sunday 9 AM to 8 PM.
Please note: Guests can only check-in from 5 PM on day of arrival, keys must be returned by 10 AM on day of departure.
Please notify the residence directly if you will be arriving after the reception is closed.
Towels and televisions are not provided free of charge, but can be hired from reception.
Housekeeping incurs a fee; however guests can purchase cleaning kits from reception.