Hôtel Anne De Bretagne Blois

The breakfast was straightforward but tasty, with fresh juice and pastries. Staff were really friendly, and it’s an easy walk into town to the castle, park, and cathedral. Rooms are basic, with no Wi-Fi or air conditioning. There was a fan, and the old building stayed cool because of its thick walls. It was in the mid-20s C when I visited, so it wasn’t an issue, though I can imagine it getting hot in midsummer when days are over 30C. Secure parking is available around the block, at most a five-minute walk away. You need to reserve it with reception in advance, and it costs €10.

They let us check in early, which gave us time to change into our biking clothes before heading to Chambord. The hotel is close to the station, restaurants, and the center of town. We had breakfast too, which was adequate.

We’ve stayed here three times now, and this visit we booked two rooms: a family room with two separate rooms and a standard double. The decor has changed from red to green this year. It’s right in the center, and everything has always been very clean. We usually ask for a room at the front. The rooms at the back look onto the main street and NRW park, so in a few years that view may be really nice. The staff are always friendly, and it’s just a six-minute walk to the castle. There’s usually free parking in front of the main gate or nearby, about two minutes away. The underground garage is a three-minute walk. Breakfast is small but good quality, and there’s a little bar in the evening.

We had a bigger-than-usual room for our family of three, and the price was good. The hotel is near the station, and in this small town it took no more than ten minutes on foot to reach most of the restaurants, even with our easily distracted 7 year old. The reception staff speak English and French, were glad to help, and can store bikes if you rent any during your stay.