Pay attention at the back! You’re now in a school but, since there are no lessons, the fees are quite reasonable. Jean-Luc Mathias is the headmaster. He likes long holidays; it took him three years to collect the memorabilia that transformed this art deco building into a ‘themed’ hotel riddled with school days’ nostalgia.
The priciest dormitories sleep 2/3 and are obviously the most spacious but specify when booking if you would like a terrace (there are views towards la Fourvière) or a quiet room (the place St-Paul can be noisy at night). And why not opt for your preferred colour – as long as it’s white. White walls and curtains, white bed, white locker (the wardrobe) and a spotless white bathroom. Just like the chalked messages on the blackboards in the corridor.
If it all gets too much, you can help yourself to complimentary soft drinks from the fridge on each floor before heading downstairs to the classroom for breakfast. Relax - you don’t have to dunk your croissant in the ink wells. And there’s a 2nd floor terrace if you prefer to eat al fresco. So help yourself to the buffet set out on teacher’s desk and pay the bill at the vaulting horse which doubles as reception. There’s no risk of a detention because the staff are unfailingly polite and helpful.
It’s funky. It’s cool. And it’s supremely well-located in the heart of Vieux Lyon.