T

hough it’s well known for quite a few other things — there’s a school there, we’re told — Cambridge has heretofore not been exactly a hotbed of innovative hospitality. That changed when the Hotel du Vin concern moved in. Here, just a few brisk steps down Trumpington Street from Pembroke College, is the Hotel du Vin Cambridge, providing a much-needed infusion of modern boutique-hotel style to these staid streets.

It occupies a listed landmark building, which used to be a part of the university — so atmosphere is not exactly in short supply. It’s heightened by the trademark dark and elegant look of the Hotel du Vin’s house style — greys and browns mix well with the exposed architectural details, and the look is a versatile one, going from crisp and airy to dark and sexy, depending on your intentions. And the creature comforts aren’t hard to come by either, from the fine linens and hand-sprung mattresses to the monsoon showers and the occasional free-standing tub.

The bistro serves simple favorites with a French influence, accompanied, naturally, by a long and well-crafted wine list. While there’s no space in this historic old house for a proper spa, there’s the option to receive treatments in-room. Don’t miss the library either — would that our university days could have been passed so stylishly.