Hôtel La Forêt de Maronne

I paid cash for two cappuccinos, but got €10 too little in change and only noticed later. This used to be a favourite place of mine for years, so I went back and explained what happened. They didn’t seem to care.

We were a group of 16 staying at La Forêt de Maronne during the summer holidays, and it was an unpleasant visit from the outset. The owner greeted us sarcastically and came across as feeling superior to everyone. The room had just one key, so you had to leave it at the hotel. After cleaning, the owner didn’t close the doors, meaning anyone could walk in and out. There was no safe for valuables. The main entrance was also locked during the day with no note, so we had to call and wait for the owner to let us in. The beds were good, but the bathrooms were filthy. Two still had faeces from previous guests, there were dead insects on the floor, and one toilet wouldn’t flush. When the toilet paper ran out, we had to go behind reception to find another roll. You’d expect a certain level of service from a hotel. Dinner was chicken with pasta, but some chicken pieces were still raw and red. When we pointed this out, they said it had never happened before and gave no apology. We’d asked by email for a barbecue, but the owner thought we meant another date. Even when we showed him the email confirming the date, he made a rude comment and wouldn’t admit his mistake. We got the barbecue only after a discussion. Breakfast was good, although you had to tell the owner the night before if you wanted a croissant, since he counts one per person. The pool was freezing and green, and the hot tub wasn’t heated. To end on something positive, the beer was cold, the cola was from the Coca Cola Company, and we had an amazing time in the mountains. I strongly advise against booking here, even if it’s your last option in the area. Hospitality is clearly lacking, and the owner doesn’t acknowledge his mistakes.

Lunch came to €32, but I later saw that €52 had been taken from my account. I don’t know whether it was accidental or deliberate, but the 3 seems to have been entered as a 5 on the pin terminal. I didn’t notice at the time because no amount showed on the terminal, and I wasn’t given a receipt. I emailed them, and the owner said he couldn’t check anymore because it had already been two weeks. I’d sent the transaction number, so it seemed like any electronic cash register should be able to find it. I wouldn’t go so far as to call them scammers, since it could have been a mistake, but the aftercare and customer service were very poor.

A wonderful base for anyone who loves mountains and nature. The rooms were clean and comfortable, the kitchen was great, and service was very friendly. Cyclists have plenty to enjoy here, with many legendary Tour de France climbs nearby, and the hotel is equipped for what an athlete needs. Highly recommended. :)