Set on a sprawling expanse of private land with lush gardens, Hotel 96 occupies a 19th-century house-turned-hotel. The lovely gardens are the first thing guests will notice, filled with tall trees, bushes, and flowers that are complemented by large human figure statues. The interiors are also charming: The bright lobby lounge mixes contemporary furnishings with antique pieces like wooden library shelves, a gilded mirror, and a piano. There’s a few printed chairs and couches for seating, as well as streamlined blonde wood tables with chairs. The breakfast room is a sunroom-style space with panoramic windows illuminating a large communal wooden table and a collection of smaller tables and chairs. Overall, this charming property has an inviting, romantic atmosphere that draws couples, as well as some families with kids.

The hotel is situated off a narrow road lined with residential homes. It’s located about a 20-minute drive outside of Marseille, or around 40 minutes via public transportation (the bus stop is a five-minute walk from the property). Sormiou and Morgiou beaches are about a 15-minute drive. Crete des Escampons is a 15-minute walk away and provides a number of hiking trails. While its location makes for a quiet stay, it may be too secluded for some. Though there’s a restaurant that’s three minutes away on foot, there aren’t many other dining options within walking distance. It’s a 35-minute drive to Marseille Provence Airport.

Guest rooms at Hotel 96 are individually designed and decorated, all airy and bright, with tiled or wooden floors, white linens, and pops of soft colors amid neutral hues. Eye-catching Mediterranean-style artwork hangs on the walls, and trendy details like tripod-style lamps and bentwood chairs add another layer of flair. Windows offer pretty garden views, plus some even have furnished patios. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, kettles, and minibars. The Suite adds a living room and Nespresso coffeemaker. Like the bedrooms, the bathrooms differ in style -- some have lovely tiled or mosaic walls. They’re equipped with trendy sinks, toiletries, hairdryers, and showers with waterfall showerheads, plus some also have deep tubs. 

Perhaps the most attractive feature at Hotel 96 are the gardens surrounding the hotel. They include a lovely outdoor pool skirted in greenery and surrounded by a deck with lounge chairs. Though there's no restaurant on-site, there is a charming breakfast room with a patio and views of the garden. An organic breakfast is served in the morning for an extra fee. The hotel has a sauna and a massage room, as well as a meeting room that holds up to 60 people. Wi-Fi and parking are free.