By Le PARVIS

Little Georgette, the more casual of the two restaurants on site, was a highlight. The food was great, good value, and the staff were warm and attentive. The hotel itself is beautiful, but after two nights I felt it sat closer to four stars plus than to the five-star standard I’ve experienced elsewhere at similar prices. Our arrival was mediocre at best. The couple checking in beside us got a warm, thorough welcome, while we were told very little about the facilities or restaurants. A five-star reception should be consistent for all guests. The spa caused the most frustration. Nobody told us at check-in or when we arrived there that use of the pool, sauna and steam room cost €15 per person. It wasn’t in the booking details either. Finding an unexpected charge at checkout was bad enough, but when we raised it, there was no understanding, compensation or even a goodwill gesture. For a hotel presenting itself as five-star, that was a real failure in communication and customer care. Our room also disappointed. It seemed to be the furthest, darkest corner room available, and passing other rooms while housekeeping was there made the difference in what guests were given hard to miss. The hotel has a lot going for it, but more consistent, transparent welcomes and a stay that matches its five-star label would go a long way.

Fatima, the concierge, managed to get us a last-minute booking at Ruinart even though it had been fully booked months ahead, and restaurant reservations were easy too. The staff were outstanding throughout our stay. There was an air conditioning problem in our room, but the team went out of their way to move us to another lovely room. The property has real charm and a great location. We also loved the pastries at reception, which were constantly replenished. Thank you for a wonderful stay. We highly recommend it.

The staff were so lovely and helpful, and dinner at Little Georgette was delightful. Breakfast catered for gluten-free needs effortlessly, including homemade GF bread. We got an amazing room upgrade, champagne at check-in, and a popcorn maker with popcorn left in the room for our child. Thank you, we only wish we could have stayed longer!

Beautiful hotel, and the bed and pillow were unbeatable. The shower design wasn’t very practical. The breakfast room was too small, and getting coffee took a long time because they had one home-use coffee machine.