Le Grand Chalet

The breakfast buffet was a treat, with made-to-order fresh orange juice, lovely croissants, and good coffee and tea. Staff were friendly and helpful, too. We only stayed one night at Le Grand Chalet, but we wished we could have stayed longer. Our double room had a beautiful sea view and modern, chic decor. The bed was huge and unbelievably comfortable, the bathroom spacious, and the coffee maker and AC were handy. We also had a very large patio deck looking toward the garden, pool, and ocean. The hotel is right by the beach, just a few steps down to the sand. Downtown was a pleasant three-minute walk for souvenirs and an ice cream. The setting and the whole stay were superb.

On our return in 2024, we were given the same room, with those beautiful water views. It was much quieter than last year, though the weather at the end of May wasn't great. The staff were lovely again. We ate at the restaurant on our second evening and really enjoyed the food. Service was brilliant, and our waiter made sure we had a great time. The hotel's position by the beach and its friendly staff make it a relaxing place to stay and a handy base for seeing the area, even when the weather doesn't cooperate. In 2023, the view was the big draw, with the beach right there and long views across the water to Île d'Oléron. Sunsets from the balcony were amazing. There's also a waterside pool and lawn overlooking the beach, a lovely place to unwind. Our room was bright and clean, with a comfortable bed, separate WC and shower room, kettle, a couple of mugs, a small fridge, and some water. Air conditioning had been installed, but we couldn't seem to get it working. It was 28c and the room felt very warm. We'd booked a superior seaside room directly with the hotel. There was some confusion when we arrived, even though I showed the confirmation email, but we were eventually given room 16. It felt a little small, though the view was wonderful and it was quieter since it wasn't over the restaurant. We had dinner on the terrace as the sun went down, in a stunning setting. The set three-course meal was about €36 a head, and we liked both the taste and presentation. We had poached beetroot with goat's cheese mousse, prawns with rice, chicken on crushed potatoes, then a coffee and chocolate profiterole and a chocolate and peach tart. A bottle of cold, crisp Muscadet, Bonnets Blancs, went nicely with it. Service was very attentive. Breakfast was just OK. They were running low on croissants and other things, and the orange juice machine was giving them trouble. At 15€ each, we're not sure it was worth it. There's a small car park and street parking outside.

Two brilliant days and nights at your hotel, and we loved every minute. Everyone else has said plenty, so just a big thank you to all the staff for being so friendly and giving excellent service. Bravo, and thanks again. Mr and Mrs Bester.

We only tried the restaurant. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, with a sublime ocean view, and the food was fresh and good quality. Definitely recommended!