A recent stay at the Duc de Saint-Simon confirmed our belief that this is one of the most alluring, and consistently pleasing, small hotels in Paris, the perfect place for a special occasion such as an anniversary. First glimpsed through two pairs of French windows beyond a pretty courtyard, the interior looks wonderfully inviting; and so it is there is a warm, beautifully furnished salon with the distinctly private-house feel, and elegant yet cosy bedrooms, all individually decorated with not a jarring note. The twin bedrooms are more spacious than doubles. Everywhere you look are rich fabrics, gloriously overstuffed pieces of furniture and cleverly conceived paint effects. The kilim-lined lift is a particularly original idea.

The white-painted 19thC house backs on to an 18thC building behind, also part of the hotel, with a tiny secret garden wedged in between. Breakfasts can be had in the courtyard or in the intimate cellar bar; service is courteous and the hotel is run with great charm and efficiency. Though prices are high, they are not unreasonable for what is offered.