D'Aubusson Hotel by Jamie Dunford Wood

The d'Aubusson is a four star hotel in the heart of the left bank. In a 17th century townhouse mansion, the hotel combines elegantly renovated historical detail, fine rugs, antiques and tapestries, with all the creature comforts to make it a favourite amongst Americans. Rooms , even the standards , are of a decent size, and not over decorated or chintzy but in a cool contemporary style melding well with the historical feel of the place. The public rooms, too, look inviting - they feel baronial and warm at the same time, a clever conjuring trick.

In fine weather a small courtyard is ideal for a lazy breakfast, and jazz often plays in the bar at weekends. The hotel has a number of other advantages over its local competitors. It boasts plenty of small luxuries, from fluffy white towels and robes to a more-than-token turn down service, morning tea in the room as standard, and DVD and flat screen TVs. Some rooms boast high, oak-beamed ceilings, and many beds come with canopies. Walls are papered in rather strange beech-effect, but it works. Carpets are busy but not overpowering. With doubles starting at 250 euros, this is great value for the comfort, location and character it can offer.