Next door to the opera house and just across from the fabled Art Nouveau dining gem, La Cigale, you’ll find the Oceania Hôtel de France in Nantes’ upscale Old Town.
Here, exclusive boutiques line streets framed by Art Deco and Art Nouveau façades. Their window displays are a tempting parade of eye candy. Now, as a weary traveler, fresh off my Loire River cruise aboard CroisiEurope, I found it difficult to peel myself away from this street scene.
But, yes, you could say that I was ready to immerse myself in one of Nantes’ true hotel gems.
Oceania Hôtel de France is aptly named.
Nantes is the birthplace of Jules Verne. The Father of Science Fiction and mastermind of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea has left his inventive spirit everywhere in this remarkable city of invention. The finest example, of course, is situated on Les Machines de I’Isle with its Grand Elephant, to other thrilling venues inspired by his imagination…and these attractions are all accessible from this exquisite property.
Author Ilona Kauremszky enroute to Nantes, France via a Rail Europe ticket
Located along the Loire River, the city is a breezy two-hour train ride south from Paris or accessible by direct flights from major gateways like Toronto.
Why It Needs a Closer Look
Step through the hotel’s private entrance, and you’re greeted by a lavish lobby where a peculiar pair of matching black candelabra lamps of Venetian Nubian figures draws your gaze. It’s there by a staircase that this lighting ensemble gestures to a ribbon of burgundy that teases you to ascend. 
The art surrounding the public spaces is no afterthought. Original pieces and curated contemporary installations create a vibrant, creative energy that echoes Nantes’ artistic soul.
Art lovers and culture enthusiasts alike will appreciate that the Nantes City Pass provides front-row access to top attractions, offers restaurant discounts, and even offers free public transportation—making exploration effortless.
The 411
This 72-room 4-star boutique hotel strikes a perfect balance between Nantes’ historic heart and modern pulse. Nestled in the Golden Triangle, a coveted district known locally as the Triangle d’Or, Oceania Hôtel de France is within walking distance of the city’s best cultural stops.
Public transit is a breeze via the Green Line—a nod, perhaps, to the verdant green line that squiggles along the city’s cobbles. This green ribbon is a city program to help wandering souls like moi find historic landmarks and public art installations, of which there are many.
The hotel itself tells stories of centuries past. Constructed in the 18th century during Nantes’ maritime boom—and its controversial role in the slave trade—the hotel retains mementos from its history.
Originally a mansion, there’s a plaque in the enclosed entrance commemorating the owner Jean-Joseph Louis Graslin (1727–1790). The wealthy financier who resided here transformed a swamp into this elegant square that bears his name. And yes, he financed the opera house, too. C’est le Théâtre Graslin.
Even street names carry quirky historical weight: Crébillon, for example, is said to have given rise to the verb crébillonner, meaning “to go shopping.” And Passage Pommeraye, Nantes’ covered shopping gallery mere steps from my hotel, rivals even the finest ones in Paris.
Checking In
My early arrival didn’t faze the hotel clerk. Graciously stowing my wheely bag, he rolled out a map and marked off three splendid areas that could warrant some successful sightseeing.
The hotel is commutable by public bus to the city’s popular market, Marché de Talensac. The other recommendations were the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and to view the renovated Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. This striking Gothic cathedral burned down in 2020 and only reopened recently.
I earmarked all these recommendations, and yes, these are doable in the time allotted. I successfully did the dry run.
Breakfast: A French Affair
- Get a universal plug adapter
- Buy Travel Insurance
- Get a Car Rental
- Get an eSim to be able to use your smartphone abroad.
- Guided Tours in France
Morning brings a sensory delight in the breakfast nook on the first floor. Open from 6:30–10:30 (extra charge), it’s a French affair of buttery croissants, pain au chocolat, artisanal breads, and an array of cheeses. The traditional Nantais cake—a sweet almond confection infused with rum and covered in white icing—demands a second helping. And help yourself to the fresh fruit bowl and go back for seconds at the DIY cappuccino machine.
Suite Life
The signature suite was on my floor just steps away. It is Chambre 107. Dedicated to artist Justin Weiler, this room showcases his original artworks with thoughtful décor. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a memorable stay.
My room offered opera house and La Cigale views, a subtle reminder that location matters.
Modern comforts abound: walk-in showers, plush toiletries, spacious washbasins, and cleverly placed sockets for international adapters. A convenient open closet and fold-out suitcase stand mean no compromise on practicality or style. High ceilings and elegant finishes conjure the lavish lifestyles of the original residents, letting you live, even briefly, like Nantes’ historic elite.
Hotel Perks
There’s more than one way to enjoy your stay at Oceania Hôtel de France.
The lobby bar offers a chic pre-dinner perch for craft cocktails, while art-filled hallways keep the creative juices flowing.
Ask for a room with views of the opera house and La Cigale for morning inspiration, or splurge on a signature suite to experience an elevated sense of grandeur.
For a serene escape, enjoy the hotel’s quiet reading nooks or unwind over a glass of local Muscadet in the lounge—perks designed to ensure you feel pampered and perfectly positioned to explore Nantes.
Final Impressions
Ilona Kauremszky in her suite with a view on location in Nantes, France
Opened in 2014, Oceania Hôtel de France effortlessly marries the historic and the contemporary. In a city that once was the heart of the Dukes of Brittany—and a former slave trade capital—there’s room for reflection, but also celebration of culture, creativity, and cuisine.
Renovated rooms with chic interiors, stylish public spaces, and attentive service create a sense of grandeur that resonates throughout this oh-so-chic district.
Booking Info
Reservations can be made via the hotel’s website or through Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Expedia.
Photos: Ilona Kauremszky
Hotel-Scoop Columnist Ilona Kauremszky stayed at Oceania Hôtel de France as a media guest of Nantes Tourisme.
