Hotel Le Canberra

With stylish retro decor, large black and white photos, and a chic atmosphere, entering Le Canberra feels like going back in time to the Dolce Vita years. Without feeling overdone, decor has a subtle 1950s theme, with white leather furniture, curvy chairs, and an overall sexy, carefree vibe. The lobby, with its pink and gray couches, sheer curtains, dark parquet floors, small bar, and photos depicting French Riviera beach scenes, sets the vibe for a glamourous stay. Outside, a manicured garden with bamboos, bougainvilleas and palm trees surrounds a small, quiet pool where guests can be seen relaxing on a lounger during the warmer months, or enjoying a drink from the bar. There aren’t many amenities specifically designed for kids, but the hotel is popular with families for its pool and rooms that can fit a cot, and with couples for its stylish decor and solid amenities.

The hotel is located on a narrow one-way street lined with boutiques. There are plenty of restaurants and bars within a few blocks, and Rue Meynadier -- a pedestrian street full of stores -- is a 15-minute walk away. The beach and its promenade, chock-full of hotels, high-end boutiques, and restaurants is just down the street. Those looking to explore the French Riviera by train can find Cannes’ main train station a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport can be reached by car in just under 30 minutes.

The hotel offers several 30 Standard and Privilege rooms, and five suites with separate living areas. All units feature solid amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Decor is stylish and elegant, with a light brown palette, a couple of pink accents, and a few 1950s-inspired touches. Black-and-white photos with La Dolce Vita-style scenes decorate the walls, and sheer billowy curtains add texture to the rooms. Bathrooms have chic black tiling, counters and sinks, and heated towel racks, as well as audio systems connected to the TV in the bedroom. Many have separate showers and tubs, and a separate WC stall. There is a fee for extra cots -- but kids under 12 stay free when sharing a room with their parents, and get free breakfast. Suites have a separate living area with a sofa bed.

The hotel’s restaurant offers a seasonal Mediterranean menu in a stylish space with dark wood floors, and 1950s-style furniture. Adjacent to the main dining room is a smaller, glass-enclosed room with views of the lovely garden and the pool area. There is also outdoor seating where guests can enjoy snacks and drinks. The heated pool is small but pleasant, with a handful of loungers around it, and a glass half-wall for safety. The fitness center is also small, but features several cardio machines, as well as a sauna. There are a few meeting rooms with catering, and event-planning services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.