Gîte de l'Est 1

The owner was easy to reach by email, and the apartment is in a peaceful spot within easy reach of the main attractions. It’s small, just as described. I only wish there had been instructions for the microwave and coffee maker.

Being so close to the city center was a plus, but the security issue was serious. The house door wouldn’t lock from outside, so anyone could enter. The apartment door did lock, though other people staying there could get in easily too. We also had trouble with the temperature. The thermostat seemed to be set at 21 degrees, but when I woke up at 4 a.m. it was 18. We all slept in pajamas and cardigans, and the temperature kept fluctuating. There were useful extras for families, like a crib and changing table, but basic supplies were missing: the kitchen bottles were empty, there was no shampoo or liquid soap, no laundry detergent, and no coffee for the coffee machine.

Parking was easy and the location was a plus, but the accommodation itself was disappointing. The house door doesn’t close, the furniture is very old, and the indoor staircase feels dangerous. The towels were old too, and laundry left by the previous guests was waiting at the entrance when we arrived. There were lots of house rules about cleanliness, yet very few amenities. The place needs renovating urgently, and the amenities don’t come close to justifying the price.

The old town, one of Alsace’s highlights, is only a 10-minute walk away. Inside, the apartment is beautifully renovated and very clean, with two bedrooms for five people. I booked through booking.com, and to me the price felt fair for what you get. It’s an absolutely lovely holiday apartment.