Le Nid de L'Anse

Excellent.

The breakfast and the information we were given were the two bright spots. The rest of the stay was deeply disappointing. We arrived around 4 pm and asked if we could eat at a corner table. The owner said no because he wanted to “maintain his privacy,” and we felt like we were intruding. We were pointed toward a restaurant or, after some insistence, a small table on the terrace or the picnic areas at the port. We were told it would be cold in both places. We ended up eating in the car, and the owner said that was better than eating outdoors. When we came back, nobody offered even a small herbal tea to warm us up. This was the worst welcome we’ve had in Canada, or anywhere in our travels over the past 40 years. Nobody offered to help with our suitcase; another guest had to carry it downstairs for us. The upstairs rooms, which weren’t mentioned on the website, are difficult to reach for someone with reduced mobility. The small room, bathroom, and shower were cramped and, as advertised, shared, but by six people. The window baseboards could have used a quick vacuum. When you’re running a business, especially taking cash payments, you have a duty to keep things impeccable. The grounds also need attention, especially compared with how much nicer everything else is, and the wobbly step needs repairing because it’s dangerous. As a business hosting guests, you’re responsible for maintaining the property.

The location is excellent, and the century-old house has a lovely rustic feel. Everything was very clean. Gilles, the host, used to be a chef and has a fascinating background. His pancakes with local blueberries were a treat. I’ve rarely met a host so friendly!

Gilles made us a very good breakfast during our one-night stay at Le Nid de l’Anse. The host was friendly, and the place is quiet, close to the port, with easy free parking. All three rooms are up in the attic, reached by a rather steep staircase that’s awkward with luggage. They share one small shower and a sink, though thankfully the toilet is separate, and that can get uncomfortable quickly. The place is basic, with thin walls, and doesn’t feel very welcoming, but it did the job for one night. We found the “at your discretion” tip envelope in the room a bit inappropriate.