France Guide
Poitou-Charentes and the Atlantic coast
Hotels
1 Le Crab 27 rue Kléber 
05.45.93.02.93 
lecrab.angouleme@orange.fr In a quiet backstreet, clearly signed from the station, the spotless rooms here are good value, as are the simple daily menus at the restaurant downstairs (€12; closed weekends). Price: €41–65
2 HI Hostel parc des Bourgines 05.45.92.45.80. A very basic hostel with breakfast but no kitchens. Nicely situated, though, on an island in the Charente. Dorm beds €12.
3 D'Orléans 133 av Gambetta 05.45.92.07.53 Freshly renovated, but still the cheapest in town. Rooms are identical and soulless, but all have TV, shower and wireless internet. Price: Up to €40
4 
Du Palais 4 place Francis-Louvel 05.45.92.54.11 
www.hotel-angouleme.fr A unique and charming hotel in an elegantly preserved former convent. The recent brightly coloured revamp has preserved the building's authenticity, with exposed beams and ancient stone a feature in most rooms. Those on higher floors have balconies which look out onto the central square. Price: €81-100
5 La Palma 4 rampe d'Aguesseau 05.45.95.22.89 www.restaurant-hotel-palma.com Friendly and helpful hotel with brand new, a/c rooms. There are only nine of them, so it's important to reserve. Price: €66-80