Villa Colmas - Avignon, France     

A B&B in a spacious and comfortable town house in a large garden (and off-street parking), but conveniently located less than 10 min walk from the old city walls and the main (non-TGV)rail station. Don't expect olde worlde french charm - the house is modern and stylish inside. Our room, which looked over the garden, was spacious and quiet. Those looking for character would be disappointed, but the website pictures show you what to expect - we were very happy. The furnishings are simple (IKEA) but spotlessly clean and everything in good condition. Large bed, excellent bathroom with heated towel radiator and good shower. Unlimited free internet access was great - the PC is set up on the landing with desk and chair. We had a very warm welcome on arrival from Maude, the daughter and the next morning from Marie-Dominique the next morning. The buffet breakfast was wonderful - a large range of fresh bread and home-made jams, yoghurts, cold hams and cheese. There are tables outside on the patio or in a light and airy room with glass doors onto the garden. The location is especially good if you are arriving/departing by train and want to be within walking distance of the main station and the old city centre (for eating out etc). The immediate surroundings of Villa Colmas have nothing much to offer on the doorstep, so expect to walk into the city in the evening. We walked back twice after midnight - very simple route along a main road, so felt completely comfortable. We paid 145 euros which seemed reasonable as accommodation was almost impossible to find due to rugby world cup quarter finals in Marseille. Really pleased we chose to stay in Avignon and it was good to be there for the celebrations when France beat NZ in the semis (we were glad to be staying in quiet location)! For info, Avignon has 2 stations. The TGV station is out of town (too far to walk) and requires a taxi or bus/train connection from the main SNCF station.