Novotel Lyon Gerland Musée des Confluences ★★★★

Surprise 1: A safari while you sleep
Bedrooms come with an incredible backdrop at Novotel Lyon Gerland Musée des Confluences due to the eye-catching animal and starry evening sky murals. Snuggle up under the premium bedding and watch a few movies on the flat-screen TV while a technicolour troop of wildlife marches across the walls. The colourful creatures also pop up across the hotel’s lobby and public spaces, adding a vibrancy to the chic surrounds.

Surprise 2: A swimming pool and urban sanctuary
Some of Lyon’s modern attractions are just minutes away – from Musée des Confluences to performance venue Halle Tony Garnier – and the city’s old quarter is also close by. And yet, sitting on the vibrant chairs and sun loungers that dot the poolside terrace, you feel like you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of France’s second-largest urban area. Soak up the tranquillity as you swim a few lengths under the watchful eye of the green octopus sculpture before ordering a bite to eat from the French restaurant and bar.

Surprise 3: A meeting room that’s more cosy than corporate
Couples, families, business travellers. There’s something for everyone here; if you’re visiting for work, then you’ll have the opportunity to make use of one of the 17 recently refurbished meetings rooms. That includes the welcoming N'Loft space, which boasts a homely atmosphere and feels a million miles away from the office.