Demeures de campagne Parc du Coudray – Mercure

The room was a letdown: poorly decorated for a 4-star hotel and so badly lit that we were in the dark much of the time. The gym was tiny and had no AC, and the spa felt more like a city pool than a spa, honestly a bit of a joke. My boyfriend and I stayed there for a spring staycation, and the weekend was still really pleasant. The forest setting, about 35 minutes from Paris, helped us reconnect with each other and nature. With a car, a few nearby towns with cute restaurants are easy to reach. There were lots of activities for couples and families with kids of all ages, including cocktail workshops and a kids club. We had a great time on the big, peaceful golf course. Axel and Youssouf at the bar, and Sira at the front desk, were absolute gems. Their professionalism, kindness and energy were a highlight of our weekend. Chef Francois also made incredible cakes and crepes, which we got to try when we arrived and at Sunday brunch.

We loved the David Bowie chicken! The setting and decor were great, and the bed was super comfy. The garden needed more attention, though. There was broken glass and cigarette butts; I told the staff, but it was still there the next day. The food was VERY disappointing.

Breakfast was a big disappointment for the price, with just the usual breads and coffee and hardly any options. When we asked for warm food, they brought eggs and sausage. The location is great, but the service was poor. I'd asked for decorations in the room to surprise my husband, but there was nothing when we arrived. The receptionist said nobody had told them, without apologizing or trying to make it right. Don't waste your money on a stay here. A day trip to the property is more than enough.

The room was nearly 30 degrees, and the thermometer was useless. With it 35 degrees Celsius outside, there was no AC or fan. All we got was, “Sorry, we have no solution.” We paid over €500 for two nights. What a disgrace. We were out all day and left the sign up saying staff could enter. When we got back in the late afternoon, the room hadn't been cleaned or restocked at all. At reception, they asked what we wanted staff to do. Just the normal hotel basics: restock toilet paper and change towels, since we'd already made the bed and tidied up. In the end, they only changed the towels and put out toilet paper. They didn't clear the used dishes or refill the tea by the kettle. I'm flabbergasted. The common areas weren't cleaned either. Glasses and other trash sat around for hours untouched, and I have photos to prove it. The pool looked like a municipal pool and had no appeal. I can't believe this place has 4 stars. We wanted cold drinks in that heat, but they weren't chilled. They offered a drink from a half-empty bottle at the price of a full one. Seriously, is this some cut-rate all-inclusive resort? A few staff members could also use lessons in politeness. I respect service work, but at least smile a little!