Aix-en-Provence

This modern hotel is set right in the very heart of the old city, boasts a beautiful garden and an impressive range of facilities.

A gastronomic restaurant, Monte Cristo bar, outdoor swimming pool with poolside snacks and barbecues (summer only), plus free access to the gym and relaxation centre (Jacuzzi, sauna and steam bath). Special rates are also available for the adjoining Thalassotherapy Centre. The hotel's 115 spacious, airconditioned rooms are all well equipped and decorated in Provençal style. Buffet breakfast.

Sunday night discount (1 April - 31 Oct): £7

This charming family-run hotel is an oasis of calm in the heart of old Aix, carefully maintained and preserved over the years.

There is a pretty forecourt, with a courtyard surrounded on two sides by 13th century cloisters at the rear, an inspiring place to breakfast. There are 40 traditionally furnished rooms, all with shower or bath, wc, tv and telephone. Basic rooms are double-bedded with shower, twins are with larger and with bath. Continental breakfast is included.

Supplement twin-bedded room (with Bath): £13

Le Pigonnet is an elegant, family-owned 18th century bastide.

The hotel comprises 49 rooms and one suite, all individually decorated by the owner, whose family have been art and antique collectors since the hotel opened in 1924. The whole atmosphere is a stylish combination of contemporary Meditarranean design and traditional French style. The gardens are a delight, and guests are invited to wander around to discover the very place where Paul Cezanne used to paint. The swimming-pool is open in summer and there is an excellent restaurant, Le Riviera, offering fine dining in- or outdoors. The most recent addition to the hotel's facilities is a spa. Buffet breakfast

Supplement Superior room: £17, Deluxe: £35.

Supplement Mar: £21, reduction Apr, Oct: £15