La Réserve (Albi, Languedoc-Roussillon; tel. 05-63-60-80-80; www.reliaschateaux.fr/reservealbi): La Réserve's design approximates a mas Provençal, the kind of dignified farmhouse usually surrounded by scrublands, vineyards, olive groves, and cypresses. It's less expensive than many luxurious hideaways along the nearby Côte d'Azur and has the added benefit of lying just outside the center of one of our favorite fortified sites in Europe, the medieval town of Albi.
Hôtel Renaissance (Castres, Languedoc-Roussillon; tel. 05-63-59-30-42; www.hotel-renaissance.fr): In the quaint town of Castres, with its celebrated Musée Goya, this hotel is a good introduction to the bargains awaiting you in provincial France. Built in the 1600s as a courthouse, it was long ago converted from a dilapidated site into a hotel of discretion and charm -- all at an affordable price, even if you opt for a suite. Some rooms have exposed timbers, and you'll sleep in grand but rustic comfort.
Hôtel Le Donjon (Carcassonne, Languedoc-Roussillon; tel. 04-68-11-23-00; www.hotel-donjon.fr): Built into the solid bulwarks of Carcassonne, one of France's most perfectly preserved medieval towns, is this small-scale hotel whose well-appointed furnishings provide a vivid contrast to the crude stone shell that contains them. A stay here allows you personal contact with a site that provoked bloody battles between medieval armies.
Hôtel du Palais (Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon; tel. 04-67-60-47-38; www.hoteldupalais-montpellier.fr): In the Old Town, in a labyrinth of narrow streets, this hotel dates from the late 18th century but has been successfully modernized to receive guests today at prices within the range of most travelers' budgets. The rooms are cozily arranged, and the hotel has a special French charm. It's one of the most historic hotels in town, and the bedrooms are relatively large, ideal for a short or even a long visit.
Hôtel d'Arlatan (Arles, Provence; tel. 04-90-93-56-66; www.hotel-arlatan.fr): At reasonable rates, you can stay in one of Provence's most charming cities at the former residence of the comtes d'Arlatan de Beaumont, built in the 15th century on the ruins of an old palace. Near the historic place du Forum, this small hotel has been run by the same family since 1920. The rooms are furnished with Provençal antiques, and the antique tapestries are grace notes.
Villa La Tour (Nice, Eastern Riviera; tel. 04-93-80-08-15; www.villa-la-tour.com) is a former convent from the 18th century which has been converted into an atmospheric little hotel in the center of Nice, a 10-minute walk from the beach. Bedrooms, for the most part, open onto views of the Old Town, a few with balconies. A little roof garden is also open to guests.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
