Herouet Apartment

Modern style in a 16th-century building, this airy apartment in historic Marais is perfect for families or friends (sleeps 4-6)

For many, the Marais district is Paris at its best - 16th-century architecture enriched by 21st-century chic. Home to the Picasso Museum, Place de Vosges and a 700-year-old Jewish quarter, the neighbourhood has recently become a mecca for shopping, restaurants, cafes and art galleries. But the Parisian obsession with preserving their heritage has meant that there are few hotels in the area, which is where Herouet comes into its own. Located in the heart of Marais, the 2nd floor apartment is set within a 500-year-old 'Hotel Particulier' - the elegant townhouses of Louis XII's court.

It was completely renovated in 2006 to combine the original features of the house with the style and conveniences of a modern home. Today, White Company linens grace the 2 double bedrooms; Miele appliances and a flat-screen TV offset the living room's exposed beams and parquet floors. It's classic, elegant, and so Parisian. Bring your family or friends and discover a whole new side to the city.

Highs

• Unbeatable location in the heart of historic Marais
• All the conveniences of 4* hotel mixed with all the home comforts you'd want
• Fab furnishings include a sleek glass-and-chrome dining table and a coffee table converted from an old trolley
• Perfect for families: a cot, high chair, potty, baby bath and steriliser are all available for hire
• Plasma TV, high-speed internet and film library for a rainy day

Lows

• There's a minimum stay of 3 nights
• The bedrooms aren't overly spacious
• Impossible to park, but public transport links are very good
• Note the fairly strict cancellation policy