Built in 1930 as a radio station, this homage to Art Deco sits on a hillside in this residential suburb of Clermont-Ferrand. Run by Caroline Mioche and Wilfred Chaplain, the staff are found “genuinely helpful”. Guide reporters received “a warm welcome” and an “excellent dinner”. The striking white building is full of period features including “a super old lift” and, in the hall, a mosaic depicting radio waves. The restaurant has a Michelin star for, eg, lobster with truffle jus; roast pigeon casserole) and is the most prestigious in the area. “Fantastic home-made bread” and a wine list specialising in Languedoc-Roussillon. “Our good-sized room, bright and attractive, had excellent fabrics, large bed, bathroom with 1930s touches. Excellent housekeeping.” Good breakfast, too: fresh orange juice. The garden is “lovingly tended”. The baths and casinos of Royat are nearby; also the Golf des Volcans, and Vulcania, the European centre of vulcanology.