Seven Urban Suites Nantes Centre ★★★★

I can see it now, cycling along on a vintage bike letting the wind catch the folds of a dainty dress, whilst I marvel at the blues of the sky and the river, and the charming buildings that line the roads. I feel light, free and joyful just imagining it all. Nantes, what a delight!

This is all before we even arrive at the Seven Urban Suites, our sleek all-equipped studio with its modern kitchenette and chic design, our own pied-à-terre! Although adventure is my aim, one of the things I adore most is a good night’s sleep, so the sight of the large bed with a thick mattress sends a smile spreading across my face from ear to ear. The room contrasts dark shades with bright touches of colour, in a space that is more than big enough for the both of us. We have a desk, unlimited Wi-Fi (for any pesky last-minute emails), a comfy armchair and modern light fittings and decorations. It was so nice to feel completely at home; comfortable and cosy ready for snugly lie-ins and our own handmade breakfast.

Downstairs sits a multilingual twenty-four hour reception, one of the benefits of staying at an aparthotel; you get the best of both worlds. And, Seven Urban Suites boasts that little extra - a well-equipped serene spa. It is just the thing we need after cycling around the city all day, a place to relax and de-stress our muscles. First stop is a trip to the sauna before sinking into the bubbling Jacuzzi, followed by a freshly infused tea in the tea room. In our relaxed stupor my husband and I reminisce about how we first met, before taking our conversation to the terrace to enjoy the fresh outside air. Oh to be in love and in Nantes!

The next day take we take advantage of a filling buffet breakfast from the hotel before setting off to see the Chateau des Ducs, to experience where these Nantais dukes really resided. Visiting Chateaux is one of my favourite things to do whilst in France, a land of decadent grandeur and how I love it! Yet, Nantes boasts a more modern side when you travel into its centre; its maze of streets is as mixed as its origins, and reveals this city to be one of the largest and most diverse cities in France. It is also surrounded by the verdant countryside of the Pays de Loire and Brittany where you can take part in various sports from sailing to the daredevil climbing. These being the type of adventures that my husband and I love, perhaps the next time we come to visit, we’ll take trips to the rocks and beaches too!