La Mirande

Classical interiors, ambrosial food and exceptional service are the hallmarks of this grand hotel, which overlooks the famous papal palace

La Mirande – one of the loveliest buildings in Avignon – stands opposite the southern wall of the Papal Palace and was once owned by the physician of Napoleon III. The façade dates to 1688, the dining room to the 14th century, and on this land once stood the Palace of the Cardinals. Outside, the cobbled streets of the old town are strictly for feet, not cars, making this one of the quietest city hotels you’ll ever find. And all things Avignon are on your doorstep.

Inside, a treasure-trove of beautiful things awaits, not least in the Michelin-starred restaurant (don’t miss the cheese board). The hub of the hotel is the interior courtyard (afternoon tea here is irresistible). Elsewhere, chandeliers aplenty in the drawing-room bar; English decorum in the pretty breakfast room; a sublime walled garden that shines in summer. Rooms have two categories: big or small (there is also one suite). They come in English country-house style, with marble bathrooms, beautiful beds, the very best linen. All but three have palace views.

Highs

• This beautiful old mansion has an unbeatable position opposite the papal palace
• Michelin-starred food – served in a 14th-century dining room – is out of this world
• The terraced garden is a real boon in the middle of the city
• Staff excel at delivering brilliant service throughout the hotel
• A great base for day trips around Provence

Lows

• It is undoubtedly expensive and small rooms are just that, but this is a beautiful hotel and they rarely come cheap
• The buffet breakfast is pricey, and while the spread is extensive, you can head to nearby cafés and pay a lot less
• The city can get very busy during its summer festival (mid-July/early August)
• Parking is an issue; either outside the old town or in the hotel's expensive car park