Balthazar

Rennes, France is one of those gems you’d have to be a bit of a Francophile to know — a pretty, carefully laid-out city with a quaint medieval quarter, elegant architecture, and a lively but unpretentious nightlife scene, thanks to a number of universities in town. Strategically positioned in northwest France since Roman times, it’s the present-day capital of Brittany. A short walk from Parliament is the brand-new Balthazar Hotel & Spa MGallery. Though clearly designed for business travelers, it’s relatively small, with just 56 rooms — and as part of Accor’s MGallery collection, it’s contemporary in style, and frankly more attractive than it needs to be.

The Balthazar feels sophisticated and warm from the moment you step into the lobby, sculptural light fixtures suspended over sleek sectional sofas, the glow of candlelight emanating from exposed brick bookcases. 53 guest rooms and three suites are set in two adjoining buildings, restored former townhouses; the look is urban but playful, with vintage-inspired glass lamps and boldly patterned metallic wallpaper adding character to an otherwise subdued white and slate gray color palette. Standard amenities include walk-in showers, bath products by Nuxe, complimentary wi-fi, Nespresso machines, large LED TVs and double-glazed windows. Suites come with large landscaped terraces.

Downstairs, there’s the Nuxe spa — featuring an ice fountain, perhaps particularly appealing in summer — and La Table de Balthazar, a restaurant run by the Michelin-starred Parisian chef Michel Rostang. A great selection of wines by the glass awaits at nearby Le Bar. Partake of the minimalist breakfast buffet in the restaurant, or relax over coffee in the modern interior courtyard. And don’t sweat the transportation details: you’re a short walk away from most anything you’d want to do in Rennes.