It’s only 14km north of Paris, but this rather engaging resort town has enough to justify a visit of a day or more if you’re in need of relaxation and a little diversion. It owes its popularity to the casino, and the thermal waters that, somewhat bizarrely, exempt the town from Paris’ no-casino law. The lakeside casino itself has been newly restored from top to bottom, and the tenue correcte dress rule is strictly maintained. Progress in the form of a number of slot machines may have taken its toll on its 19th century glamour, but you can still play roulette and blackjack in atmospheric surroundings, and until the wee small hours. A new deluxe spa complex offers a royal flush of beauty treatments, a fitness suite, pool and health cures. The town’s theatre hosts regular events, including the four-day Jazz Festival at the end of June.