Guests enter the 18th-century house via a beautiful private courtyard walled in with brick and paved with colorful rocks. There are several chairs and tables where guests eat breakfast. Potted topiaries and hanging greenery look lush. Inside, wood-paneled walls, leather furniture, and a large fireplace make the reception area feel cozy. Essential oils in each room give a fresh scent to the entire house. Poet and novelist Lucie Delarue Mardrus once lived here; she's the inspiration for the hotel's name.

Visitors driving to La Maison de Lucie may need a GPS system to navigate the narrow one-way streets in the residential neighborhood. The location is quiet yet convenient to the city center with its tourist-friendly restaurants, shops, and harbor. Parking is at a premium so reserve in advance and expect to pay a daily charge for the privilege.

There are 10 guest rooms and two suites at La Maison de Lucie and each is uniquely decorated with attention to detail. Hardwood floors and flat-screen TVs are standard. Look for extra touches like antique fans, French art books, and towel warmers. Views overlooking the courtyard are the best, though vistas of the village are nice too. Storage and space are a problem in some rooms. All bathrooms have full bathtubs and French toiletries. Mattresses get high marks for comfort.

Though the whirlpool is located in the basement level of the hotel, it's one of the best features of the property. The basement is vaulted and made of natural stone and brick. A stained glass window makes the space feel less claustrophobic and more relaxing. A basic breakfast is served each morning for an additional charge and includes croissants and coffee. There's a little bar near the lobby with a small selection of liquor and French wines, but otherwise there are no on-site features. The hotel lacks a full restaurant and fitness center.