Abbaye de Belval

Anyone who has stayed at Abbaye de Belval would be surprised I gave it a 4 out of 5 rating. There is no Television, there's no tea/coffee making facilities, the furniture is very basic being a wardrobe with odd hangers and a desk with a wooden chair. My impression was that it is to experience how a Monk lives. However, I gave it a 'Very Good' rating because I loved it. I probably had the best nights sleep I've had in years, maybe down to no TV or Coffee plus the bed was very comfortable. It is so quiet, no main road nearby, only a very rural lane with possibly 2 or 3 cars a day. Nearby are some lovely woods with paths which are quite exciting to explore, beyond them is agricultral land growing wheat and vegetables. The only sound I heard was bird song. Vivienne, the hotel manager, speaks pretty good English and is very welcoming and helpful. The lady that does the breakfast is lovely but no English at all but we got by and had a laugh in the process. The hotel is attached to the Abbey and breakfast consisted of very fresh French bread, brioche, a variety of conserves including honey, chocolate spread (packaged but good nontheless). Apple (Pomme) juice made at the Abbey and also two different delicious cheeses made by the Sisters at the Abbey. Lovely fresh coffee and a cereal which I think was something like Kellogs Frosties which I passed on but ate a huge amount of the delicious bread. So all in all I really enjoyed my overnight stay but if you want a bit more luxury and facilities it is not the place for you but if you want some peace and quiet it is perfect. There is a nearby Abbey Shop (Boutique) where you can get a snack and a coffee during the day, plus souvenirs and produce of the Abbey. Anything else is a drive away. Arras and other Somme Battlefields are within easy reach, Arras is only 25 minutes ride. Hints - Take some drinks, cans or a travel kettle or cup element, tea bags and/or coffee. As it was, I only drank tap water which is unusual for me but also helped with the sleep. Give the shower time, it does eventually get hot! There is a massage, aromatherapy, room but I didn't see anyone as I left quite early in the morning but it was right next to my room (15). P.S. It's not busy, I was the only guest at breakfast, and the only guest in the hotel as far as I knew, it's that quiet. P.P.S. as it is not a busy hotel the reception room is not manned all the time. Look just around the corner, to the left, and you'll see a black wall mounted telephone. You can use this to call someone to book in or for other assistance. There's no telephone in the rooms.