ACE Hôtel Chartres

Breakfast had the full continental spread, plus scrambled eggs and bacon if you wanted something hot. We’ll be back. I arrived on crutches after fracturing my knee and they gave us a lovely, spotless room with plenty of space and a wet-room bathroom. The bed was really comfortable too.

There was a slightly unpleasant smell in the room, which bothered us a little. Apart from that, we enjoyed our two nights. The room had enough space for our family, the beds were comfortable, and breakfast was good.

We’ve been regular guests for years, so this was deeply disappointing. In the middle of the night, a man we didn’t know entered the locked room I’d booked for my husband and daughter using a key. He gave no explanation and ran off when my husband confronted him. They were so anxious afterward that neither could sleep for the rest of the night. When we reported it the next morning, the staff and management seemed indifferent. Nobody apologized or explained what had happened. I sent a formal written complaint asking for an explanation and a refund, but weeks later there’s still been no response. Guests should be able to feel safe and have their concerns taken seriously. Neither happened here, and the hotel showed no accountability or care.

The boulangerie across the road is excellent, whether you want to eat in or take something away. It’s also only a short drive to the centre, and makes a handy one-night stop on the way to southern France. We came back after last year’s stopover and it lived up to our expectations. Great value for its classification, with friendly English-speaking staff, a lift to the upper floors, and a big free car park. Our large room was immaculate, with thoughtful lighting, a comfortable bed, and a lovely bathroom with a good-sized modern shower and plenty of towels.