Villa Maia

This is such a wonderful gem of a hotel, it makes Lyon feel like a holiday home almost immediately. The front desk staff was only too happy to open the door to greet you, they are located in their own cozy corner on the ground floor, rather spartan because everything else - bar, breakfast spot, cocktail lounge - is up the stairs. The hotel may look deceptively quiet but we have stayed in such places where you feel like you have the whole place to yourself, when actually, it does have other hotel guests. Perched on the ancient Fourviere hills and two minutes down the slope from the Roman amphitheatre, the location is within walking distance to the Notre Dame as well as the funicular down to Vieux Lyon. The pool is really relaxing after a whole day of exploring the walking city, and has a fabulous spa of steam and sauna and massage services (book ahead). We checked in slightly earlier and were redirected to the cafe with a wide view of the city and rivers. Food was excellent. The concierge team is very friendly - Francois, Julien and Alvaro can quickly suggest and advise and research for you. Francois sorted out a dinner reservation for me where I had booked the wrong date and purchased extra meal vouchers. A really lovely time, we are telling everyone to go to Lyon now.

An exceptional property located 300 meters above the Rhone and Saone rivers, with a commanding view of Lyon. The property is 7 years old, but is in virtually the same condition it must have been upon opening. A small boutique hotel, but with all of the amenities of a large property. Exceptionally responsive Concierge Team. Complimentary breakfast delivered in room (via Leading Hotels of the World) was varied every day. The property is built above the original Roman location. Steps from stunning a Roman Amphitheater. Easy access to old Lyon via a funicular.