Hotel Le B d'Arcachon

The hotel's '50s exterior isn't the most attractive, but sleek interiors make for a polished first impression at this centrally located property. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the lobby with natural daylight, while orange and yellow retro chairs add a dose of cheerfulness. Canine figurines toting Panama hats add humor to indoor garden display. Mezzanine-level fish sculptures sit next to stairs that lead to an open-plan upper level plants in white inlays. The lounge is a cozy spot with a blue couch, communal table, and fuchsia geometric-print chairs, plus an aquarium, TV, and bookcase. Drawn by the hotel's stellar location, leisure couples (plus the odd family) from France are the primary clientele.

The hotel is centrally located, surrounded by Arcachon's offerings in every possible direction. Palais des Congres convention center is next door, as is the town's casino. With a one-minute walk to endless leisure attractions, everything is literally on your doorstep here. Arcachon Beach is opposite the hotel, and the Jetee d'Eyrac pier here is great for island boat trips. Cafes and restaurants dot the seafront promenade, and Cafe de la Plage - Chez Pierre is popular for bay-facing breakfasts and fresh seafood. Arcachon embraces its marine setting, and a ferris wheel and Aquarium Museum are right by the hotel. Four quarters reflecting four seasons form the town, and the hotel is in the most popular "Ville d'Ete" Summer Town. Arcachon Train station is an eight-minute walk, and trains from Bordeaux run to it every half-hour. Bordeaux-Merignac Airport is a 45-minute drive.

Rooms here are contemporary, stylish, and beachy, outfitted with wood floors, nautical-themed artwork above the beds, light-wood furniture and panels along accent walls, and teal bedrunners and throw pillows. Ceramics on asymmetric shelving add decorative flourishes, and conical lamps are a fun touch near curved desks with chairs. Rooms start at a compact 215 square feet (20 square meters), which is common by French standards. Flat-screen TVs accompany phones, mini-fridges, safes, and kettles for tea- and coffee-making. Wicker seating areas get more extensive with sofa beds in upgraded rooms, and 323-square-foot (30-square-meter) Deluxe Rooms add Nespresso machines. Honey-colored bathrooms have stall showers with rainfall showerheads, ceramic bowl sinks, hairdryers, toiletries, and vanity kit. Some rooms have balconies with dining sets. Sea views are often partial and obstructed, and only higher-floor Deluxe Rooms guarantee panoramic bay vistas. The hotel has three accessible rooms. All rooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed.

Features are limited for the price, but guests find the overall quality worth it. At a fee, the buffet breakfast offers bacon, sausages, and scrambled eggs, plus continental breads, pastries, cereals, and fruit. The hotel prides itself on its homemade "canneles" cakes, and guests can squeeze their own juices. The room's pinks, plums, and mauves pop against whites, and jazz music playing on speakers adds a nice touch. The lounge's colorful sofas, coffee tables, and shelved books echo its laid-back atmosphere. Stools at higher tables give a bar feel, although wines are only available from a vending machine (alongside hot beverages and snacks). On the downside, there are no wellness facilities or full restaurant. Private underground parking with interior hotel access is available for a fee, and advance reservations are recommended, particularly in summer. Bike rentals are available, and a good option for exploring the area. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.