Rhône-Alpes

The Hotel Guru
France
Rhône-Alpes

Credit: Flickr user Michel Schmid

Credit: Flickr user Sandrine Néel

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About Rhône-Alpes

Large and mountainous, the Rhône-Alpes region is home to the beautiful cities of Lyon and Grenoble, as well as to verdant mountain slopes and dramatic peaks. With accommodation options varying from characterful city B&Bs to luxury ski chalets, choosing the best places to stay in the Rhône-Alpes region can be a challenge — but our Gurus’ recommendations are a brilliant starting point.

Lyon, the region’s largest city, has long attracted top international chefs. A foodie favourite, this beautiful city of cobbled streets and imposing boulevards is studded with Michelin-starred eateries. It's also home to a number of excellent museums and galleries. Those dreaming of a stylish city break might also consider Grenoble or Valence, both striking and filled with things to see and do.

Keen skiers, on the other hand, can look to Alpe d'Huez, the Rhône-Alpes region’s top ski destination. Travel during the winter months to zip down the snow-covered slopes, or in summer for hiking, mountain biking and adventure sports. Nature lovers will also adore discovering the Massif de Chartreuse and the Pilat Regional Natural Park, both south of Lyon. In a region famed for its exceptional food, there’s no shortage of farms, vineyards and local producers offering tours and tastings. The farmers’ markets of the cities are awash with fresh produce — as are the kitchens of the best places to stay in Rhône-Alpes.

Best Places to Stay in the Rhône-Alpes

For a Characterful B&B

Hotel Bayard Bellecour has sumptuous rooms and suites inspired by the rich history of Lyon. Think antique pieces, big beds with headboards upholstered in patterned fabrics, and bathrooms with big tubs. Generous breakfasts set you up for the day.
The Victoria is a small, family-run boutique hotel close to Valence's train station. Brilliant for weekends away, this design-led spot is decorated in moody teal and grey tones and cool photographic prints. Expect friendly service, in-room Nespresso machines and top-notch breakfast pastries to be savoured on the terrace.
Hotel Silky is a bright, cheerful B&B with nods to Lyon's Silk Route heritage in its 46 rooms, each characterised by painted walls and clean lines. Gather for breakfast before heading out to explore one of central Lyon's trendiest districts.

For City Style

College Hotel, in Old Lyon, is a 1930s-style hotel with an unusual school theme. All-white rooms have striking city views, and some have private terraces. The communal areas, eateries and meeting rooms take the traditional scholarly theme a step further, with desks, leather armchairs and boards for presentations. Great for work or play.
Hotel de France is a smart city hotel on the edge of Valence's Old Town. Contemporary rooms are individually designed, with crisp, clean lines and a minimalist sense of style. Kick off your day with generous breakfasts on the sunlit terrace.
Globe et Cecil has 59 rooms, each uniquely appointed and set just 50 metres from Lyon's Place Bellecour. Whether you're dreaming of timeless charm or a fresh, modern feel, this spot has it all. Meeting rooms make this an excellent choice for a business trip or event. There's also a lovely restaurant.
Okko Lyon Pont Lafayette has chic, minimalist rooms and suites and impressive views over the Rhone River. Just across the bridge from Lyon city centre, this is a hip bolthole for business or leisure, with an inviting lounge and work spaces.

For Families

Fourvière Hotel is a great Lyon base with dedicated family rooms and suites. The interiors of this former convent are bright and bold, and there's a swimming pool, spa and restaurant. Ideal for discovering Lyon as a family.
Mama Shelter offers quirky, modern rooms at great rates in Lyon. Perfect for group & family holidays or for independent travellers in search of a bit of a buzz, the hotel has lively games areas, a restaurant and sociable bar. An eclectic yet affordable choice.
Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges is a traditional hotel spread across four buildings in a medieval village about 30km north east of Lyon. Spacious rooms with additional beds are great for family or group trips, and there's a very good restaurant. Family-friendly outdoorsy activites await in the area.

For Food-Focused Luxury

Villa Florentine is a beautiful former convent, now housing 29 elegant rooms and suites. The spa and outdoor pool are superb, but the real highlight is the Michelin-starred Les Terrasses de Lyon Restaurant. Try the lunchtime Menu des Terrasses for fresh, innovative flavours in a striking setting overlooking Lyon's rooftops.
Maison Pic is a modern design hotel in Valence, most notable for its famous patron Anne-Sophie Pic, the award-winning French chef. Sublime dinners await at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant, after which you can retreat to trendy rooms decorated with designer pieces by Bruno Borrione. Cookery classes and wine tastings are also terrific.
Villa Maïa promises a five-star stay with sophisticated rooms and suites on Lyon's Fourvière Hill. Unwind at the in-house spa — complete with indoor pool — before feasting at Michelin-starred partner restaurant Têtedoie, where Chef Christian Têtedoie crafts culinary delights aplenty. The five-course Inspiration Menu is marvellous.
Hotel Le Royal, on Lyon's Bellecour Square, has classic interiors and an excellent restaurant. Its gastronomic Ecole de Cuisine however, is reason enough for foodies to visit. Check out available courses as you plan your stay at this traditional gem.
Pavillon de la Rotonde is a curious fusion of 1930s architecture and more modern elements, tucked in verdant Charbonnières-les-Bains, not far from Lyon. A sumptuous spa retreat, the hotel also prides itself on its Michelin-starred cuisine, under the guidance of Chef Jean-François Malle.

For a Tranquil Retreat

Château La Commanderie is a charming hotel with 40 chic, spacious rooms set 15 minutes from the heart of Grenoble. Unwind in the soothing spa, soak up the sun by the swimming pool, or tuck into gourmet cuisine in the elegant restaurant. Lovely and relaxing.
Maison D'Anthouard is a beautiful 17th-century manor house with leafy gardens, welcoming events spaces and fabulous hosts. The 18 rooms are swish and contemporary, with crisp white linens and a largely monochromatic palette. The wine bar has a more moody feel and the restaurant is excellent. A tranquil retreat for well-heeled romantics, close to Lyon.
Grand Hotel & Spa d'Uriage, 7km southeast of Grenoble, is a sophisticated country escape with elegant guestrooms and a sumptuous spa. Dine in style at La Table d’Uriage after days of exploring Grenoble.
Domaine de Clairefontaine is a beautiful manor house with six inviting guestrooms — two of which have space for families — and a charming cottage. A surprisingly well-priced rural hideaway with leafy gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Le Beau Rivage, a former fisherman's house between the Rhône and the vine-covered hillsides of Condrieu, has 29 rooms and suites and a lovely seasonal restaurant. Pick this place for the stunning location, which invites guests to soak up the region's natural beauty.

For a Ski Holiday

Au Chamois D'Or is an indulgent chalet with a gorgeous traditional exterior and luxurious rooms and suites with wood panelling, crackling fireplaces and big cosy beds. Private balconies offer impressive mountain views, whilst shared spaces include the sumptuous spa with swimming pool and gourmet eatery. There's also ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes of Alpe d'Huez.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

Fly into Lyon Airport or to Grenoble Airport, and travel by bus, train or taxi from there. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up.
Whilst Lyon and Grenoble have excellent public transport links, it's well worth having your own transport if you're eager to explore beyond the cities. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
Summer is by far the most popular time for exploring, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C in July and August. Spring and autumn are quieter and cooler. Travel between December and March for the best skiing in the mountains.

Still not sure?

Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Lyon.
Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Rhône-Alpes.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

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The best hotels in Rhône-Alpes

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Mama Shelter, Lyon

Lyon

Think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory plus the kind of gadgetry you might find at Google HQ. Super modern, super cool, super eclectic. Each room is different, each as fun as the next. The penthouse has access to the roof. City style for technophiles.

City Style
Contemporary
Local markets
Sights nearby

from AU$79 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees