"How did it strike you on arrival?Through a courtyard and into an 18th-century former hôtel particulier, or private mansion, there's a stately feel to an arrival at Clarance. Once inside, it's a harmonious mix of old bones and new style: contemporary works (paintings, decor, statues) by French and foreign artists grace the common areas; an intimate and surprising library room can act as a private dining area inside the restaurant; and the property also benefits from its own spacious garden. I loved the high ceilings and modern touches but private residence vibe. What’s the crowd like?Lille has yet to become the international destination it deserves to be, but it does attract French travelers and those nearby in Belgium. During my stay, I mostly saw fellow French travelers and well-heeled Lille locals who flock to the hotel for dinner. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.A poem by Baudelaire serves as a welcome message on each door to the 19 rooms and suites, and each of the rooms are decorated differently. I stayed in the Prestige room, the category above the smallest room, which overlooked St. Catherine's Church. The design was contemporary but cozy, decorated with jeweled light fixtures, Art Deco wall hangings, a reading banquette beneath large windows, and a soft color palette of creams and grays. It was spacious and comfortable. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Very comfortable bed, elevated higher than normal, with soft linens. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Nothing in the room was exceptional or out of the ordinary, but I did enjoy the complimentary bikes reserved for guests. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The bathroom was an add-on to the original building and as such, the design was far more modern. My bathroom had a pedestal sink with a pullout drawer for storage, a bluetooth-connected mirror via which I could play my own music (it's worth noting that this was strangely the only mirror in the room). Bath products were by Clarins (ginseng) that I was happy to use. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free Wi-Fi, strong throughout the stay. Room service: Worth it?I ordered the continental breakfast to my room, which had generous portions and was delivered promptly. The rest of the room service menu is adapted from the full restaurant offering. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.La Table, the on-site restaurant, has a Michelin star, its chef Thibaut Gamba having worked with the likes of Pierre Gagnaire and Thomas Keller. The garden terrace is a wonderful spot for a drink when weather allows. What was most memorable about your stay?It's a short walk from the old town's major sights and landmarks, yet set back in a calm private property that could just as easily be in the French countryside. Bottom line: worth it, and why?It's one of the only five-star boutique properties in town, and affordable for the quality of the services and dining options available." - Lindsey Tramuta
