10 hotels to discover in the heart of French heritage

It is no secret that French heritage is one of the richest and most beautiful in the world – tourism statistics confirm this. Cathedrals, palaces and other historic monuments offer, alongside their enchanting setting, the opportunity to delve into History and appreciate the distinctive flavours of each era.

For a total immersion, it is now possible to stay in the heart of heritage gems: discover our selection of 10 hotels that will offer you an exceptional stay, right next to these treasures!

#1 Château de Sedan – Ardennes

Did you live your childhood dream of being a knight? Make it a reality today by staying in the largest fortified castle in Europe. This imposing 35,000 m² fortress from the 15th century houses the 4-star Hôtel du Château, fitted out in former barracks and stables.

Yellow stone walls, exposed beams and wall tapestries are part of the programme for this unforgettable experience. The 52 rooms and suites combine modernity and comfort while respecting the soul of the castle. A unique place to visit at least once in your lifetime!

#2 Molitor swimming pool – Paris

Next, drop your bags in one of Paris’s most unusual locations. Discover, in the 16th arrondissement, the Molitor swimming pool built in the 1930s. Its 46-metre pool is surrounded by a luxurious hotel of 124 rooms and suites designed by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel.

As well as staying there, you can swim, enjoy a treatment at the spa or have a drink on the rooftop with a view of the Eiffel Tower, please!

#3 Abbey of the Ladies – Saintes

What would you say to a return to the 11th century to sleep in a nun’s cell? This is what the hotel “les Chambres de l’abbaye” offers on the first floor of the Abbey of the Ladies in Saintes.

Its former nuns’ cells, converted into rooms, will offer you unusual nights with an intimate dimension. What awaits you: old floorboards (and the creaking that goes with them), the beauty of the vaults and walls with soft stones to taste the calm and grandeur of the place.

#4 Le Corbusier Hotel – Marseille

Visiting Marseille and discovering (really) its heritage also means enjoying a moment at the Cité Radieuse. Creation of the famous architect Le Corbusier, this building offers unforgettable nights in its 21-room hotel.

Note that Le Corbusier Hotel is the only hotel establishment located in a building listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Choose your room with a sea view or city view and enjoy the vintage and designer décor of this colourful place!

#5 InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu

Here is another must-see of the Phocean city: InterContinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu. Located on the Panier hill, the oldest district of Marseille, it promises an exceptional view of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and the Old Port. Converted into a 5-star hotel in 2011, the establishment occupies a former hospital, the Hôtel-Dieu.

A 16th-century building listed as a historic monument, it has been renovated according to the original plans of architect Mansart to restore its former appearance. You can enjoy a Michelin-starred restaurant, a contemporary brasserie and a spa inspired by former Provençal washhouses.

#6 Royal Saltworks – Arc-et-Senans

The film “Night at the Museum” is not just fiction: take the plunge and opt for a night in the heart of a museum, thanks to the hotel at the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans. This establishment is located in an former salt manufactory dating from the 18th century, built by a famous architect of the period, Claude-Nicolas Ledoux.

The site, now listed by UNESCO, has been transformed into a dynamic cultural and artistic centre. The famous designer and architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte has created contemporary and comfortable rooms while respecting the origin of the site. Your night on site will give you free access to exhibitions and the nocturnal illuminations of the gardens.

#7 Abbey of the Premonstratensians – Pont-à-Mousson

A stay full of history awaits you in Lorraine at the Abbey of the Premonstratensians in Pont-à-Mousson between Metz and Nancy. This unique 18th-century site is multi-faceted thanks to its architectural richness, its 2.5-hectare park and its cultural programme. You will appreciate staying in this privileged setting which has retained its original elements. On the banks of the Moselle and in the heart of the town, the restaurants, shops and artisans of Place Duroc and the St Martin district will be a few steps from your hotel. Also enjoy being in the centre of the region to visit the beautiful towns of Nancy, Metz, Bar-le-Duc…

#8 La Demeure de Corsaire, Hôtel Magon – Saint-Malo

If you feel you have the soul of a sailor, the Demeure de Corsaire – listed as a Historic Monument – located in the heart of Saint-Malo is made to welcome you! François-Auguste Magon de la Lande, shipowner and privateer under Louis XV, had it built in 1725.

Its style is characteristic of Saint-Malo privateer houses: ostentatious perron, austere façade with large windows and pointed roof featuring dormer windows and monumental chimneys.

Your stay in the guesthouse’s only room will transport you to the interior of a wealthy shipowner and his family, in the century of the East India Company. Ideally located, you will be a few steps from the restaurants, walls and beaches of Saint-Malo.

#9 Radisson Blu Nantes

Going to the Palais de Justice without a summons and spending an extraordinary night: this is what the 4-star Radisson Blu Nantes offers. Transformed by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel and opened in 2012, it is located in the neoclassical former Palais de Justice of the city, opposite Place Aristide Briand.

You will be in total immersion from your arrival thanks to the lobby located in the former Salle des pas perdus, and the restaurant installed in the courtroom. From the hotel, you can easily reach other points of interest in the city such as the Tour de Bretagne or the Château des Ducs de Bretagne.

#10 La Caserne Chanzy – Reims

Treat yourself to an exceptional view of Reims Cathedral by day and night, without leaving your room! La Caserne Chanzy, a former fire station located on the cathedral forecourt, offers this unique experience.

To benefit from the most breathtaking view, install yourself on the balcony of the Skyline room. Thanks to this hotel & spa’s central position in the heart of the city, you can easily reach the Palais du Tau, the Museum of Fine Arts or Reims Opera.

You are now ready to enrich your tourist stays with extraordinary stages, with a very special atmosphere that will make you feel privileged. Enjoy your stay!