La Maison des Tetes

Drawing its name from the 106 sculpted "tetes" heads decorating it, the 1609-built Maison des Tetes is one of Colmar's most iconic buildings. Still intact, these carved figurines make a statement on pink-stone facades with mullion windows, although entry itself is via the charming medieval courtyard. The lobby's 2016 renovations are stylish, thanks to stark whites, leather, faux fur, or bold-hued seating amid exposed stone, and wooden slab tables that contrast Renaissance carvings outside. Fresh-looking aspects continue in the Michelin-starred Girardin restaurant, although wood paneling retains rustic style in the brasserie, where there's bar service. The terrace courtyard's vine canopies make for popular hang-out spots, and breakfasts served here are tranquil. Historic properties have their drawbacks -- entry after 10 p.m. is via a back alley, and there are no wellness facilities, but there is an elevator. Overall, this is an excellent, upscale property with a modern design that still hints at its past.

The hotel's location is fantastic. Right in Colmar's center, it's amid the Old Town's half-timbered houses, with offerings virtually on the property's doorstep. The Dominican Church, Unterlinden Museum, and 1537-built Pfister House are a five-minute walk, as is the birthplace of Statue of Liberty sculptor, Musee Bartholdy. The "petit train" tourist train circumnavigating the Old Town is a two-minute walk, as is the main shopping street, Rue des Clefs, where trendy boutiques accompany a wealth of regional and international eateries. Petite Venise (Little Venice)'s cobbled streets, canals, and balcony-flanked houses are 10 minutes on foot, with Colmar train station three minutes farther. Colmar is also on the Alsatian Wine Route. Basel and Strasbourg International Airports are both within an hour's drive, or up to 90 minutes by public transport.

Outfitted in mostly whites and muted grays, rooms have an elegant, minimalist design that mixes modern furnishings with some historic Alsatian charm, such as wood-beamed or slanted ceilings. Facing the street or courtyard, and starting at 250 square feet (23 square meters), they're large by French standards. Bedrooms have polished parquet or soft carpet flooring, designer chairs in tan leathers or vibrant reds, and back-lit or high wooden headboards. While a few still sport old-fashioned bathrooms with multiple tile styles, 2016 renovations in most gave rooms sleek, slate-gray bathrooms. The former have shower/tub combos, while the latter have large rainfall showers. All have Atelier Cologne toiletries and hairdryers.

Phones, desks, flat-screen TVs, welcome lemon cake, and bottled water come standard, alongside wardrobes with Nespresso machines, minibars, safes, slippers, and robes. Split-level Duplex rooms with balconies sleep four. In-room Wi-Fi is free, but crib fittings incur fees.

The hotel is chosen as much for its location as it is for its restaurants, one of which has a Michelin star. Amid soft whites, bauble lighting, and orchid decor, Restaurant Girardin's award-winning tasting and a la carte menus offer gourmet French fare, while the Brasserie Historique dishes up regional cuisine. The brasserie's paneled woods, plastered whites, and wall-mounted clocks are traditional, as are sauerkraut specialities, and local wines here accompany spirits. At a fee, and served in the brasserie, courtyard, or in-room, buffet breakfasts include made-to-order eggs, varied breads, cheeses, and continental options, plus tea, coffee, and juice. Note, Sunday and Monday brasserie closures have similar inconveniences in the restaurant, which is closed Wednesdays and Thursdays, and is dinner-only Mondays and Tuesdays.

The central outdoor courtyard is a calm, cobbled space wrapped by climbing ivies and vine canopies, and light-weight furniture in browns here extends to cushioned corner sofas. Views of the historic property are pretty amid potted shrubbery, and al fresco dining is popular. Sadly, there are no fitness or spa facilities, but guests are generally here to make the most of historic and stylish settings as a base, before spending their days out. Private rooms in the restaurant can be hired for functions, but there are no dedicated meeting rooms. On-site parking with CCTV is at a fee, as are pet stays. Wi-Fi is free throughout.