Hôtel La Pérouse

Nantes


Built in 1994 by French architects Barto & Barto, this four-star design hotel is a historical monument. Its distinctive slit windows evoke the city's shipbuilding heritage and a new-millennium makeover injected a zesty dose of contemporary chic into the striking vintage ensemble. Its 46 minimalist rooms are cream with dark wood floors, glass cupboards and zig-zag chairs. Breakfast – wholly organic – costs €16.

The ground-floor lobby – with designer furniture, honesty bar, free tea and coffee, and artwork for sale – is a stylish place to lounge.