Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Grand Hôtel d'Houlgate was built in the second half of the 19th century in Beuzeval, renowned Houlgate, a booming seaside resort on the Côte Fleurie (Calvados). Initiated by Jacques Baumier in 1858, the project is part of the urban development of the city, including villas, a church and this majestic hotel. The central body, built in 1859, marks the beginning of an ambitious architecture designed to attract an easy clientele in search of maritime resorts.

The hotel has had two major extensions under the direction of René-Jacques Baumier, son of Jacques. In 1896-1897, two symmetric pavilions were added on both sides of the original building, enriching its decoration with stone balconies and open windows. In 1904, a rotunda surmounted by a dome was built at the western corner, completing the architectural ensemble. These expansions reflect the evolution of aesthetic tastes and the growing prestige of the resort.

The Grand Hotel is distinguished by its eclectic style, combining bricks and stones, with colossal pilasters and fine ironwork. Although separated from the beach by a terraced garden and the casino, it dominates Baumier Street, parallel to the sea. Its inscription in historical monuments in 2000 (façades, roofs and guard house) devotes its heritage importance, as a witness to the golden age of Norman seaside resorts.

Transformed into a residence (the Pleiades), the building has lost its hotel function but retains its impressive look. Its architecture, combining classical rigour and freer ornaments, illustrates the ambitions of the 19th century promoters. The current minigolf, installed in the old gardens, recalls the evolution of the uses of these spaces, formerly dedicated to promenade and elegant leisure.

Future

The building, transformed into a residential complex, has been listed as a historical monument since 2000

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