It might not be your first thought – to spend more than a night in Nice – when planning a South of France holiday. Often, this city is a jump-off point for other favourites along the coastline. But now, there’s a new hotel in town. Meet Hotel du Couvent: a former 17th-century nunnery turned smart hotel. And it’s cool. Of course it is, it’s the brainchild of the Perseus Group and they’ve teamed up with Paris-based designers Festen for the careful restoration. There’s a magical, historical feel, with lots of old features championed (terracotta floors, creamy walls, repurposed woods). You’ll want a room in the original convent, which looks over the cool courtyard where young groups of French friends gather for impressive cocktails, flavour-packed dishes and a late-night laugh. You’ll find them up by the pool or already on the rosé at lunch the next day.