Xavier's apartment is stunning and yet so comfortable, and was exactly what we needed to recharge after a week of travel and before tackling Paris. The pictures do it justice, but don't capture the view of the Basilica from the living room window or the sounds of petanque being played in the square below (also a UNESCO site). The bed was comfortable. The apartment was spotless. The kitchen was clean and stocked with most utensils and basics (you will have to do your own shopping though, which is a joy in Lyon). Olivia, the cleaning lady, was there to greet us with the keys when we arrived from the airport and show us around. I can't overemphasize how wonderful it was to have access to a washing machine. We did two loads and appreciated the fact that the manual (w/English instructions) was there to decode the symbols. The TV also worked perfectly and we enjoyed watching French music videos and a dubbed True Lies. ;)

It is an older building with beautiful and very squeaky floors and the entryway can be very dark at night. There is an old but functional elevator. The only efficient way to get to the front door of the building is up two flights of steep stairs. We appreciated that workout after 3 courses of Lyonnaise food (!!), but if you have bad knees, you may want to reconsider.

We would definitely return. Loved the neighborhood and its proximity to such excellent dining options and historical sites. There's a Roman ruin about 100 ft away for goodness sakes! Nous aimons Lyon!