Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa

We all enjoyed the stay, especially my baby, who loved the pool. It was great having both indoor and outdoor sections, and the whole hotel was super clean with lovely rooms and great amenities. I didn't try breakfast, so can't comment on it. One small thing: during our three nights, I would have appreciated a few thoughtful treats in the room. It's a detail, though, and I'd come back to enjoy the city and region.

The staff made a big impression on me. My French is nonexistent, but they were so well trained in service and spoke English so well that communicating was never a problem. They even encouraged my attempts at French. I also loved getting to know Cognac and the surrounding villages, where there's plenty to see. And then there's the comfort. I sat on the mattress and was sold right away. As an American who loves thick, comfortable mattresses, I usually stick with American chains or ultra-luxury places costing over $1,000 US a night when I travel internationally. This hotel has changed that for me. I've stayed in some incredible places through work and for pleasure, and Chais Monnet & Spa is among my top three hotels in the world. Considering the price, it's at the very top of my list. The food is magnifique, too. We were deciding whether to buy a home in the area, and staying here sealed the deal. We're excited about our new home, and laugh that we'll still come back every month just to enjoy the atmosphere. I can't recommend the hotel highly enough.

The facilities are clean and very modern, and the spa has a beautiful pool that works both indoors and outdoors. There are two restaurants on site, a bar, and a rooftop bar. The town center is about a seven minute walk away. Arrival was handled professionally, but my eighty year old mother had to wait four hours after we arrived, until after 4pm, to get into the room. After a long journey, a quicker room turnaround would have been a welcome courtesy for her. A bit more coordination with the cleaning staff would have made a real difference.

Even during the quiet season in Cognac, we had a lovely stay at this beautiful hotel. The team really goes above and beyond, and the bar is a treasure trove of cognac.