Tell us more about yourself
I am Sophie Bannier, a passionate and committed project-driven woman. What drives me is creation: bringing a place to life, telling a story through materials, colors, and objects. I’ve always been fascinated by interior design. I love hunting for forgotten treasures, giving them a new place, a new meaning, a soul.
But above all, I love sharing. The art of hospitality, attention to detail, and generosity in welcoming guests are all part of my vision of the profession.
Villa Haute Guais is one of those heartfelt projects, born from a desire to share, to give joy, and to offer a different kind of experience to those who walk through the door.
Why stay at your hotel?
Villa Haute Guais in Dinard is much more than a guesthouse. It is an immersive experience blending British elegance with Breton charm. Nestled in a green setting facing the Bay of Le Prieuré, this historic 1880 residence has been fully restored under the direction of Sophie Bannier, who is also the director of the prestigious Castelbrac hotel.
Tell us more about the style, design, and ambiance
The style of the Villa boldly combines British chic with warm comfort in an eclectic décor made of colorful wallpapers, period furniture, and carefully selected English fabrics. Every detail pays tribute to the love story between Dinard and England, in an atmosphere that is both refined and welcoming.
Tell us about rooms and views
What makes Villa Haute Guais unique is its ability to combine intimacy, understated luxury, and a true art of living. Each room was designed as a world of its own, with its own codes, yet all share that British touch: vintage furniture, club chairs, well-stocked bookshelves, and a rich, enveloping color palette. The idea was not to copy a style, but to interpret it freely and with modernity, rooted in the Breton context.
Which room do you prefer and why?
My favorite room is without a doubt the dining room. It’s where everything comes together: the natural light that floods the space, the splendid view of the sea that turns into a living painting throughout the day, and above all, the large family table that embodies the art of hospitality for me.
Every detail was carefully chosen: the color palette, the English-style sideboard, the vintage furniture. Everything evokes sharing, conviviality, and a certain idea of simple elegance. It’s a warm, vibrant room that perfectly reflects what I want to offer guests—a suspended moment around a beautiful table, in a soulful atmosphere.
Tell us more about the service at your hotel
Villa Haute Guais offers an elegant and exclusive alternative to traditional hotels. It is a haven of peace, a place for encounters, gastronomy, and contemplation, with an unobstructed view of the sea and Castelbrac just across the bay.
What truly sets the Villa apart is the focus on the overall experience: personalized service, an intimate atmosphere, and a way of life that bridges Brittany and England.
Tell us more about your location and neighborhood
The location of Villa Haute Guais is one of its greatest assets. It is in the heart of the Vicomté neighborhood in Dinard, a sought-after residential area known for its tranquility, greenery, and proximity to the sea.
The villa is perched on the heights in a one-hectare wooded park, with stunning views of the Bay of Le Prieuré, Saint-Malo, and the Dinard harbor. It is only 500 meters from Vicomté Beach and a short walk from Port-Breton Park, the coastal path, and the town center.
This exceptional setting allows guests to enjoy both the peacefulness of a residential area and easy access to the town’s attractions.
The Vicomté district is also rich in history. It’s one of the emblematic spots of Dinard’s resort heritage, with Belle Époque villas, hanging gardens, and spectacular sea views. The neighborhood embodies the discreet elegance of Dinard, away from the tourist crowds but close to everything.
What about the breakfast, restaurant and bar?
At Villa Haute Guais, we delight both the palate and the eyes.
Breakfast is served each morning in the dining room or on the garden-facing terrace. It includes generous options: French or English-style breakfast, vegetarian or vegan choices, all made with fresh, local, and seasonal products, including homemade cake. A true moment of indulgence to start the day.
The Table d’hôtes offers refined French cuisine by Chef Rémi Ledauphin in a warm and elegant setting. Menus vary with the seasons and the chef’s inspiration, with special attention to quality and presentation.
An honesty bar, reserved for our guests, is also available. It’s perfect for enjoying a glass of wine, a cocktail, or a homemade infusion at the end of the day, either in the lounge or on the terrace. The ambiance is intimate and relaxed, encouraging conversation among guests.
It’s a full gastronomic experience designed as a natural extension of the charm and elegance of the house.
What activities and experiences can travelers enjoy around your hotel?
Around Villa Haute Guais, travelers can enjoy a wide range of experiences celebrating nature, culture, and the Breton art of living.
Scenic walks: the customs path (GR34) runs just steps from the villa and offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Le Prieuré, Saint-Malo, and the Emerald Coast. The Clair de Lune promenade nearby is a must-see at sunset.
Water activities: sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, or cruises to the Chausey or Jersey islands. The beaches of Vicomté and Le Prieuré are within walking distance.
Relaxation and wellness: yoga sessions in the villa’s garden, massages on request, or invigorating sea swims at high tide.
When you travel with kids, which room do they have to book, and what facilities do you offer?
The Junior Deluxe Suite “Diana” (45 m²) is spacious and offers two beautiful rooms, one of which is dedicated to children, with twin beds.
The entire villa (473 m²) can be fully privatized for large families or multi-generational stays. It includes 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a private kitchen, fireplace, and garden.
What are your hotel's environmental commitments?
At Villa Haute Guais, environmental responsibility is both a priority and a passion. We’ve chosen a form of responsible luxury, rooted in nature and respect for all living things.
A vibrant, nourishing garden: nestled in a one-hectare park, the villa features a garden designed as an ecosystem. We encourage local biodiversity with plant species adapted to the Breton climate, no pesticides, and minimal irrigation. Deliberately wild zones welcome insects, birds, and small mammals.
Bees and hives: we’ve installed beehives in the garden in partnership with a local beekeeper. They contribute to pollination and the preservation of essential bee populations. The honey is served at breakfast as part of a sweet and meaningful experience.
A short supply chain: our table d’hôtes uses fresh, local, seasonal products. We work with regional producers, organic farmers, local fishermen from the Emerald Coast, and passionate artisans. Fewer food miles, more flavor, and real support for the local economy.
Concrete daily actions: electric car charging, recycling, reduced single-use plastics, linens washed on request, eco-friendly cleaning products. Every detail matters.
What business facilities do you offer for travelers?
Villa Haute Guais offers a discreet and refined setting, ideal for small business stays. In winter, the house can be fully privatized for residential seminars such as executive retreats, in an atmosphere conducive to focus, creativity, and team cohesion.
Do you want to share anything else?
I created this project with my heart. From the beginning, I wanted to bring color to my guests’ eyes through an immersive and emotional experience.
For me, designing Villa Haute Guais was like painting a canvas. Each room, each material, each light is a brushstroke, an emotion to share.
This place is the result of deep work, inspired by my travels, my dreams, and my desire to pass things on. I poured into it everything I love: the art of hosting, attention to detail, a taste for beauty and authenticity.
Today, I’m proud of what we’ve built—a vibrant, soulful place that speaks to the heart as much as to the senses.
