Address: 15 rue Grimaldi, 06000 Nice, France

Tel: +33 (0)4 93 16 00 24, email : zedde@le-grimaldi.com

Website: le-grimaldi.com

First impressions: The classically French layout of a small lobby with a tiny lift going up through a spiral staircase, but all very bright and attractive. Friendly and helpful concierge. Larger than it looks: the hotel spans entrances on two streets, with a courtyard between its two blocks.

What are the rooms like? The 46 rooms are individually decorated: ours was light, airy, spacious, in cornflower blue and yellow. Good views across Nice from the upper floors.

The bathrooms: Very decent; ours had a walk-in shower as well as a bath, and twin sinks. Regional, olive oil based toiletries from Marseille.

The bed test: Comfortable but double bed had two single mattresses on the frame - great for lumbago sufferers, but not brilliant for couples.

Nice touch: The minibar is only stocked on demand from the bar (which is open 24 hours), stopping any inadvertent, absent-minded munching on overpriced peanuts.

Eating: A perfectly judged buffet breakfast (good value at €15) consists of all the French staples plus eggs, fruit, cereal and more to delight the Brits. No restaurant but they have a special menu prix fixe arranged with the establishment next door. Limited room service meal requests taken (not Sun/Mon).

What other facilities do they have? Free internet access on the premises; fitness room (hotel guests can also access a nearby gym).

What is there to see within walking distance? It's just a couple of minutes' stroll to the seafront (the Grimaldi offers a package for the Ruhl Plage, one of Nice's private beaches) and 10 minutes to get into the lovely streets of Vieux Nice. And some of the major shopping areas are just round the corner.

How much a night? From a very reasonable €85 (£53) for a double to €225 (£150) for a suite for two people in high season.