Campanile Valenciennes Ouest - Petite Foret

We spent four nights here over Christmas to visit family around Valenciennes, and it worked well as a place to sleep outside the city centre. The commercial area location is handy, with Auchan, shops and plenty of places to eat and drink nearby. Parking was free, the staff were friendly, and the beds were very comfortable. The shower had great pressure and two settings, though the bath was small. The rooms have blackout security blinds and a motel-style layout. Despite being beside the motorway, it was quiet. Breakfast was high quality, especially the fresh brioche and other breads. There was a full continental spread and you could boil your own eggs. The weekday service ended early, but since it was the holidays the staff were relaxed about the timing. Very good value, and we’d stay again when visiting family.

The staff were helpful, but the hotel itself feels run down and needs renovating. Our room wasn’t very clean, and the heating didn’t work. At €60 a night, I thought it was overpriced.

It might do for a single night on the road, but I wouldn’t choose it for a longer stay. The sheets and towels were clean and the room seemed all right, though noise from the highway was awful. There was no proper sound insulation, and even a gap under the door. Breakfast was poor, with hardly anything to choose from.

We’d stayed at this budget hotel a few times before the COVID pandemic. It’s been updated since then, and now offers good service at a good price.