Cour des Loges

This splendid, unique hotel spans several historic mansions right in the heart of the Renaissance quarter of Vieux Lyon west of the Saone, but its many contemporary touches work brilliantly too.

Rooms are sumptuous, with decorations including superb silks for which Lyon was long famed. A stunning, central arcaded inner courtyard serves as setting for a fine gastronomic restaurant. They’ve also managed to squeeze in a small pool, spa, roof garden, café and two bars.

The ambience tends towards the dark, and as with quirky old buildings, contemporary facilities like the spa are slightly cramped. It is, however, a luxury oasis right in the most character-filled, tourist-visited part of the city, and thus exceedingly convenient for sightseeing.