Situated discreetly away from a bustling residential avenue in Lyon, Mansion 216 is a sophisticated manor dating back to the 19th century concealed behind robust automated iron gates with a curving pebble path and a gentle cascading stream.
An immaculately-maintained enclosed garden with a remarkable variety of plants including aromatic herbs and blossoms such as verbena, sage, lilies, roses, and lavender, along with ivy embracing the walls, lofty chestnut and linden bloom trees, and even a few wild strawberries, provides a calming rural vibe despite being in the outskirts. The parking is easy and secure, off-street, within the gates on the private drive.
Whilst the feeling of being beyond Lyon prevails, the usual hustle and bustle of everyday life in France’s third largest city goes on as usual, with shops and eateries scattered along the street outside.
Within Mansion 216, erected in 1890, you will find three ensuite chambers, as well as an outdoor jacuzzi exclusively for guest use. Personalized massages can be arranged with a simple phone call.
The entrance hall up multiple stone stairs beneath a vintage glass and metal covering is airy and cheerful with floral-themed wallpaper, a vibrant tiled floor, a cozy armchair, handwoven baskets containing yellow cushions, an honor system-based glass-fronted beverages and snacks cabinet, and multiple shelves of books and tourist guides.
Our ground-floor chamber, overlooking the garden through tall French windows, featured a commodious bedroom and adjoining bathroom with a walk-in shower and a separate WC.
The bedroom showcased a parquet flooring, intricate wall and ceiling trimmings, a brown-speckled marble fireplace, and ornamental cast-iron radiators.
Equipped with all essential facilities, including a top-notch Jura coffee machine with freshly roasted beans, a toaster, an oven, and a wall-mounted TV. There was also a collection of eight varieties of Pages teas, a renowned French label, like Earl Grey, mint, apricot, blackberry, and myrtle-berries.
A circular marble-topped table was large enough for dining, though due to the pleasant weather we experienced, we preferred the seating and tables outdoors facing the garden.
Breakfast at Mansion 216 was provided through a delivery service, ‘Baguette a bicyclette,’ delivered right to our door every morning, including dark chocolate and hazelnut granola, pure orange juice, yogurt, baguette with butter and jam from Brittany, and a chocolate croissant.
Due to the multicultural environment, there is an abundance of choices for ethnic, or traditional French bistros, brasseries, and dining spots in the neighborhood. One night we relished Nepalese spinach curry, chickpea noodles, and dumplings, and another evening Lebanese tabbouleh, hummus, and eggplant.
If driving is not part of your vacation plans, a chauffeur service can be easily arranged, and we had a pleasant and professional experience with Chauffeur Lyon, a local company with top-notch transportation services.
For a countryside feel, away from the urban clamor yet just a brief 15-minute drive from Lyon’s city center, Mansion 216 is a splendid choice.
Image Source: Lyon France
