L’Hotel Particulier Bordeaux

Set in the medieval heart of the city, in a superb location near the Cathedral and Place de la Bourse, L’Hotel Particulier is an excellent base for first-time visitors.

Once the townhouse of Bordeaux’s 19th-century Cardinal Donnet, this historic building now contains home five romantic,  high-ceilinged guest rooms, as well as a handful of more basic self-catering studios and family apartments, which are perfect for longer stays.

Bathtubs, Nespresso machines and balconies add a touch of homey luxury to the rooms; and the charming, English-speaking owners prepare superb breakfasts. There’s a lovely inner courtyard too.

Bordeaux’s main sights, shops, restaurants, bars and waterfront are all within walking distance.

One of the city’s sleek new trams conveniently passes right in front of the door, but it’s so quiet few guests even notice.