The Best Hotels in Grenoble, France

What do the Knights Templar, instigators of the French Revolution, pioneering industrialists and your fine self have in common? Or rather, could have in common? They’ve all stayed at the Chateau de la Commanderie during its 700-year history. So why should you? Located 10 minutes from Grenoble city centre, the chateau is surrounded by sprawling green gardens of neat topiary and shady pines, only interrupted by an opulent pool and awnings for dining alfresco. Chef Rui Rouxinol sources ingredients from local producers for his menus; opt for “traditional” for classic dishes or “discovery” for playful flavours and textures. Similarly, choose between a historic or modern room, some with balconies, when making your booking. Sip a herbal tea in the spa, which is organised around five Feng Shui elements (water, fire, metal, wood, rock), and alternate between the jacuzzi and hammam, before heading out to sip champagne on the lawn.

The Scandinavian stylings of the 1924 – deliberately cool and uncluttered, with its cosy fireplace and winter garden – offer a calming break from the bustle of the city. Rooms, basic but comfortable, are awash with calming hues of lilac, white and grey. Don’t miss breakfast, which includes fresh goods from specialist local producers, such as overnight baked bread from artisanal baker Talamelerie – known for producing over 40 varieties of bread – regional PDO cheeses, organic eggs, and fresh juices. There are also regular events, such as wine tastings, in the hotel’s communal areas, so make sure you check the agenda.

Groovy, funky, playful. Any of these adjectives fit the mood of this hotel where anyone having trouble sleeping can easily begin to trace the contour lines of the minimalist map murals on guest room walls; a fittingly local alternative to counting sheep. Located close to the city’s Alpexpo convention centre, and not far from the winter sports resorts, the hotel is an easy base for a mix of business travellers and families taking to the slopes. Upgrade to the Privilege room category for a minibar and tea and coffee-making facilities and a view towards the fortress.

Escape to the countryside with a stay at this family-run inn at the edge of the woods, where you’ll be awakened by birdsong. Located on the edge of the city, and home to the Chavant family since 1852, you’ll find eccentric touches including taxidermy parrots in glass domes and oil paintings of ancestors. Lounge by the pool under lime trees, or the shade of a 100-year-old magnolia tree, or sip Armagnac by the fireplace. Head to the little blue cabin on the grounds for a cocktail. Then retire to rooms adorned with chandeliers and plump floral furnishings for a heavenly night’s sleep.

This sophisticated boutique hotel dates back to 1870 and it boasts a prime location, just a stone’s throw from the Hubert Dubedout-Maison du Tourisme tram stop as well as the Place Grenette market and some of Grenoble’s best restaurants. All rooms feature free wifi, minibars, and flat-screen televisions, and visitors can upgrade to rooms that offer balconies or to suites. Don’t miss the library and meeting room, as well as the convenient valet parking service.

This chic and contemporary hotel is located right by the Palais de Justice tram stop and is also just a few minutes from the city’s train station. The hotel’s terrace is perfect for relaxing, and the on-site brasserie and bar are excellent. Business travellers can make use of the meeting rooms and business suite.

A four-star hotel, the Park Hotel Grenoble is a bit of a distance from the city centre but more than makes up for it with its 21ha (52 acres) of greenery and stunning views of Paul Mistral Park. Come summer, the park becomes the city’s back garden and venue for numerous festivals and concerts. Rest your head in style amidst the hotel’s chic decor – think wingback chairs, dark red walls, and library-chic elegance – and don’t miss the spa and fitness centre. Oh, and the lounge bar is a top spot for a nightcap after a day of exploring.

Named for the Europole business district in which it is located, this hotel offers rooms with free wifi and work spaces, and most serve up mountain views, too. Other perks of this place include a video games room for kids, a French restaurant, bar, fitness suite, and a business area with three conference rooms – making it ideal for business travellers.

Hyper-modern inside and out, this four-star hotel features contemporary and stylish rooms fully equipped with modern amenities. You won’t find a lobby, lounge or dining space here. Instead, you’ll find one communal space, The Club, which acts as an all-inclusive space in which to work, dine and relax, with a terrace overlooking the Jardin Hoche and surrounding gardens. The hotel is also located in Europe’s first eco-district, where low-consumption buildings are powered by solar thermal panels. Don’t miss the hotel’s daily apéritivo hour featuring local, organic antipasti, washed down with a choice of wine, spirits or champagne.

Modern and funky, this hotel is situated in a peaceful and residential area just a short walk from the Foch-Ferré tram stop and offers contemporary rooms, a sauna and fitness centre, a bar, a Mediterranean restaurant, free parking, and a generous business meeting space. Who says you can’t have it all?