L'Hermitage Gantois Hotel and nearby sports venues in Lille, France

Location. Housed in a 15th century listed building with Gothic facade and many original features, the contemporary Hotel L'Hermitage Gantois is located within one kilometre of Lille's old town and the Grand'Place. The nearest airport is Lille Lesquin Airport (LIL), 10 kilometres away.
Hotel Features. A black and white marble floored gallery overlooking the Cour d'Honneur shows temporary modern art exhibitions, while the small museum houses a collection of curious pieces dating from the hotel's days as a hospice. Books about Lille can be perused in the armchairs of the wood panelled library just off the Grand Salon, while benches in the shade of an ancient glycine tree provide a pleasant space to relax in the Cour des Soeurs courtyard during summer.

The chic Restaurant de L'Hermitage Gantois features an original vaulted ceiling painted red and gold and specialises in meat and fish dishes, while the more casual brasserie offers traditional French cooking. Formerly a courtyard, the atrium bar is overlooked on three sides by the historic buildings that comprise the hotel.

Guestrooms. Hotel L'Hermitage Gantois features 67 air conditioned guestrooms over three floors. Rooms combine original features with stylish contemporary decor in warm red or blue tones, with oak panelling, Louis XIV style seats, and chairs designed by Philippe Starck. All rooms include minibars, wireless Internet, and safes. Carrara marble bathrooms feature black, grey or beige tiles, stainless steel fittings, showers, tubs and fluffy white bathrobes.

Expert Tip. Meert in the old town, less than one kilometre away, has been selling sweets, cakes and pastries since 1761 and is famed for its gaufres (waffles), said to be favourites of General Charles de Gaulle. Behind the flamboyant 1839 facade the shop offers a range of mouthwatering temptations, such as chocolates, fondants and marrons glaces.