You might confuse Royal Hainaut Spa & Resort Hotel for a castle, but this building was actually a hospital, constructed by Louis XV in 1751 — which explains the palatial proportions. Suites enjoy panoramic views of the Cour d’Honneur, while rooms are enhanced by original architectural features like blue stone vaults and seven-meter-high ceilings. The spa, nestled in the building’s original cellar, is designed to make you forget time and place as you float in the indoor pool. Should you come back to reality, Valenciennes offers an excellent jumping off point to discover this area of northern France.