Hotel de Seze

Arched windows and light stone on the 18th-century exterior make for a pretty first impression, while interiors pull off a mix of classical styling and modern furnishings. Expect black-and-white checkered floors, gray armchairs and tufted seating around a column, and striking wood sculptures next to colorful easel artwork in the lobby. Off this area is the sophisticated French restaurant, with classical artwork, wood floors, and chairs in red hues. A small outdoor terrace with potted plants in blue-painted boxes is particularly lovely in summer. The vibe throughout remains upscale and classically charming, which makes it most popular with traveling couples. 

The hotel is in central Bordeaux near top sights, set between the upscale boutiques of the Golden Triangle and historic Quinconces Square (both within a five-minute walk). Being along Allee de Tourny, the property is just a few minutes' walk from the Christmas Market. Place de la Comedie, housing the Grand Theatre Opera House and Michelin-starred Le Pressoir d'Argent restaurant, is a four-minute walk away. Surrounding streets are filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. A tram stop is a two-minute walk from the hotel. Bordeaux-Merignac Airport is a 25-minute drive or 40 minutes by public transport.

Although rooms are individually styled, all have a gorgeous mix of classic style and modern furnishings. Palettes come in a range of hues, including pistachio and teal, and rooms are outfitted with old-fashioned wallpaper (in most), sophisticated contemporary furniture, wall moldings, and wood floors. Lamp-shade chandeliers, gold-framed artwork, and chaise lounges in some add period touches. As is common for Europe, rooms are on the small side, starting at 17 square meters (183 square feet). Also on the downside, some guests have found front-facing rooms noisy. 

Amenities include desks with wireless keyboards for the flat-screen TVs, blackout curtains, minibars, phones, and air-conditioning. Wardrobes have umbrellas, electronic safes and large mirrors. Three Suites come with separate living rooms, and add second TVs, electric kettles, and coffeemakers. Beige-marble bathrooms with black countertops are swish, and have shower/tub combos, plus separate showers in upgraded units. Bathrobes and slippers, hairdryers, and swanky toiletries are provided.

Hotel de Seze has all the expected amenities for a four-pearl property. The all-day traditional French restaurant, Comptoir du Seze, offers buffet breakfasts, afternoon tea, bimonthly evening jazz concerts. Food receives positive reviews and room service is available. The bar serves wine and cocktails, while cigars are for sale in the smoking lounge. The spa is small but sufficient, providing massage and body treatments, plus it has a hot tub, sauna, and steam room. There's a fee to access the facilities. A tiny gym has just a few pieces of equipment. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. A meeting room can accommodate 15 people. Two six-hole golf courses are reached via a free shuttle. Laundry service and parking opposite the hotel are available for fees.