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In the heart of historic Paris, in the old Marais quarter with its many townhouses, Le Sévigné offers peace, comfort and conviviality.

The name Sévigné is an immediate reference back to the celebrated Marchioness whose 'letters' lit up early 18th century French literature. "I find that joy gets you talking Parisian", commented Mme de Sévigné, born in 1626 at the Pavillon Coulanges on the Place Royale, which has since become the Place des Vosges with its 36 houses, including the Pavillon du Roi, the Hotel des de Chaulnes and the house of Victor Hugo (now a museum). Madame de Sévigné had eight different addresses in the Marais - which she professed to be her favourite part of Paris that "she used to watch like you would a show" - at a time when it was becoming increasingly fashionable. The former Place des Vosges was already highly sought after within the intellectual community. In the Marais of that period, a number of townhouses began to emerge that provided residences much in vogue with philosophers and within social circles. The Malraux Law ensured that this essential part of the capital's heritage was properly maintained. And it was in this historic part of the city - with the Place de la Bastille just nearby - that the Hôtel Sévigné made its mark on many a map.

Halfway between the Place de la Bastille and the Hôtel de Ville, Rue Malher joins Rue St Antoine, not far from Rue Thorigny and the Hôtel Carnavalet ("a beautiful courtyard and garden, just like the area as a whole") where the Marchioness once took up residence. The Hôtel Sévigné, situated at 2, Rue Malher, is the perfect place to stay when visiting the area, whether for business or pleasure. It is set within an area marked out by a number of museums such as the famous Carnavalet and Picasso museums, and the European House of Photography. If it's the small shops and large brand name stores on Rue de Rivoli and Rue des Francs-Bourgeois you're looking for, then take a detour via BHV, Samaritaine and Marks & Spencer. You'll be spoilt for choice. You can also extend your walk by heading towards the banks of the Seine, the islands of Saint-Louis and Cité and Notre Dame cathedral.