Hôtel Notre Dame

We spent most of our three days out exploring because the hotel owners said we weren’t allowed to use the restaurant, terrace, or pool, even though we had paid for the pool. The woman said guests didn’t all have the same rights and she could choose who used the facilities. Since other guests weren’t treated that way, I wondered whether it was because we weren’t French. We stayed because leaving with children and getting no refund would have been difficult. The location is quite nice, and the rooms were generally clean. We had a pleasant view of the dried-up river from the rooms that faced it. But at €260 per room per night, I expected at least a small fridge, especially at the end of July. There wasn’t one. We couldn’t use the balcony to dry our towels, and when we asked for another solution, the owner yelled at us and the children. The children don’t even understand French. We were two families, each with two adults and two children aged 6 to 10, but we were given one room for five and another for three. The booking terms said no prepayment was needed. Even so, the woman angrily accused us of being frauds because payment hadn’t arrived in advance. We explained in French that there was a technical issue at the bank, then paid with the same card as soon as we arrived, before we’d even seen the rooms. There was no fraud. The owners showed no respect for paying guests. The woman repeatedly said it was her hotel and she could do what she wanted, and that anyone who didn’t like it could leave without a refund. Breakfast and dinner were available for a charge, but we couldn’t use the facilities to find out what the food or restaurant were like. Thankfully, there was plenty to do nearby, so we were only at the hotel to sleep.

The little pool was nice, though the place felt very overpriced. The woman wasn’t particularly friendly, but the man was lovely.

Breakfast was a generous self-serve buffet, with plenty to choose from and tasty croissants. We also had a delicious three-course dinner and took the recommended wine out to the terrace, which overlooks a little stream and is surrounded by trees. It was so quiet and lovely there. The owner and his family were friendly and helpful, making sure we had everything we needed. We felt completely relaxed, and the little pool was just right for a quick dip before breakfast. We’d book again if we’re in the area.

The room was clean and so tastefully decorated, and the food was amazing. The wine suggestions really added to the meals. It was exactly the relaxing stay we’d been hoping for. A lovely family runs the hotel and clearly cares about what they do. Their three little dogs were a treat too. I’d definitely recommend it.