Hotel Le Pavillon

For 35 euros, I got a room where a pipe carrying water made a lot of noise all night. The receptionist made a point of telling me how small the room was, as though I should be grateful to get anything for what I'd paid. Sorry, but I didn't set the price. The hotel did.

The balcony view was beautiful, but the rest was disappointing. The family rate came to 85 without breakfast, so it wasn't as cheap as advertised. The place was dirty and smelled bad, including the corridors. We couldn't open the window at night because it connected to another room and didn't feel safe. There's no parking either. We were lucky to find one street spot nearby, and it was the only one left.

I've driven through Blois on my way south lots of times without stopping, but this stay made me want to return. The room views were out of this world, and the owner works hard to give guests what he can. The service we received was something corporate hotels can't match. The rooms are basic and rustic, with an authentic feel. If you want to experience France away from commercial places, come here with modest expectations. The traditional food lets you taste French cuisine without a big price tag. This place goes beyond the norm, and the owner is keen to outdo the corporate elite. Well done, La Pavillion. We'll be back for sure. Jason & Family

The location worked well for me: the walk across the bridge to Blois's pedestrian centre takes about five easy minutes, and I liked being a little farther out where it was quieter. My room was 4, with a double bed and enough space for my needs. It had a sink, while the one toilet and two showers were shared on the same floor. Everything was clean, including the room, showers, and toilets. The old building felt recently updated in room 4. It was chilly outside, but the radiator had temperature control and kept the room warm; extra blankets were there too. I stayed two nights in late September 2015 and had a very pleasant time. The bar and restaurant downstairs close fairly early, so the hotel was quiet, and street noise wasn't much of an issue. The reception isn't open late, so arrive at a reasonable hour. If the restaurant is open, check in there. Don't ring the hotel bell while it's open, nobody will answer. They'll give you a door code so you can come and go at any hour. There's no lobby or common room, just the guest rooms. That didn't bother me since I don't usually hang around my room on vacation. The walls are thin enough that I could hear the couple next door having a good time. Conversations weren't clear, but your neighbors might notice you moving around in bed. They'll store your luggage in a locked room on your last day if needed. For 33 Euros a night, it met my expectations, and I'd stay again if I came back to Blois.