A historic landmark within a short walk of downtown's convention center and Pavilion retail shops, The Sainte Claire is a good bet for those with a penchant for a touch of yesteryear.

Since the Sainte Clair was built in 1926, expect smaller rooms than those in more recently constructed accommodations. While not tiny, we definitely noticed the spatial challenges in the bathrooms, especially counter space. All 171 units are clean and attractively decorated, with warm tones, stylish décor and soft bedding. Sainte Claire underwent a room renovation after Larkspur Hotel Group purchased the property. Flat-screen televisions and complimentary WiFi are two more features we appreciate. And, the entire accommodation is 100% smoke free!

Sainte Claire recently purchased a few new machines for its lower-level hotel gym and we award management kudos for doing so. However, the somewhat dark (no natural light) work out room may not please all athletic-minded travelers. The machines inside are good quality, but there is no upright bike, and you may find that someone has already laid claim to the one elliptical. In that case, your best bet will be to head to Bally Fitness, an upscale club less than 5-minutes walk away that has everything but a pool (admission $10).

If it's water that you desire, there are two options. The cheaper and more convenient lap pool is at SJSU -- $3 and a ten minute walk (don't drive as parking is a bear). An older facility, the pool is run short-course -- see our pics and venue review for more detail. Option #2 is the outdoor pool at San Jose Athletic Club. It will cost $20 ($15 if your home health club belongs to IHRSA), but you can pretty much guarantee a lane to yourself and the water box is a bit more private and cleaner. It's not $17 nicer though, so we'd head to SJSU.

Note: Il Fornario restaurant is located inside the hotel.