It's not overlooking the picturesque old port where most of the hotels are based, so why stay there?

This eighteenth-century guest house has far more character than most of the hotels in the old port, which is only a short walk away. And don't let the property's shabby exterior put you off. Once inside, you enter an interior designer's paradise decorated with antique furniture, wooden floors and original artwork.

What are the bedrooms like?

Huge. All six of them are individually furnished with antiques and decorated in cool pastel shades. Some of the ensuite bathrooms are chic and modern while others have the original baths and toilets. Request the room on the first floor with its own balcony and shuttered windows overlooking the pretty courtyard garden.

And the breakfast?

Stuff yourself with freshly made croissants and brioches, home-made preserves and unlimited fresh coffee on the patio.

What can you do in La Rochelle?

The old port is lined with first-rate seafood restaurants where you can enjoy a superb lunch with wine for about £10-£15 per person. Then sleep it off on one of the town's sandy beaches, take a boat trip, or hire a bike and head for the nearby island of Ile de Ré.

Any other tips?

Be careful not to fall over the well-fed tortoise which roams the house.

How do I get to La Rochelle?

Buzz launched flights to this town on the south-west coast of France earlier this summer from London Stansted. Return fares start from £70 including taxes (0870 2407070)

Hotel bookings: 00 33 5 46 41 62 23; fax: 00 33 5 46 41 10 76. One night's bed and breakfast from £55 per room, £70 for the balcony suite.