IT IS an oasis of calm in French motor city Le Mans – but inside there is high drama in the bedrooms. Because the newly refurbished Le Prince Hotel & Spa boasts some of the most eye-catching decor you can find.

Don’t let the hotel’s setting in the historic Convent of the Visitation fool you. Step inside and it’s 21st century chic.

Guest rooms and suites boast wall-sized artwork that you won’t see in any other hotel you’re likely to visit.

The convent site of the four-star hotel, right in the centre of town, dates back to the 18th century, and is a destination in its own right.

Le Prince Hotel rubs shoulders here with shops, restaurants, meeting rooms, the Europa Jazz venue, the Church of the Visitation and, most fittingly, the FIAA contemporary art centre.

And, as part of the hotel itself, award-winning stylist Raphael Perrier, runs a stylish salon and spa.

The hotel boasts 38 rooms – there are five categories: Tiny, Deluxe, Executive, Junior Suite and Leprince Suite – each individually decorated with modern graphic frescoes.

And, as with the best portrait pictures, you may well feel that the eyes tend to follow you round the room.

The dramatic artwork can be found throughout the hotel, including more eye-popping prints in the restaurant.

If you’re a petrolhead, by the way, the legendary Le Mans circuit is three miles from the lobby.

Le Prince Hotel & Spa is part of Best Western’s Premier Collection. For latest rates, reservations and travel advice, head to www.leprince-hotel-spa.com. For tourism tips and news about Le Mans see www.lemans-tourisme.com