Vacancéole - Les Chambres de la Baie

The hotel is surrounded by greenery and nature, and the rooms were clean during my three-night stay a week ago. The bedding was good and comfortable, and breakfast was a generous buffet in a room with big bay windows looking out over the fields. I didn't hear cars at night on the quiet country road. Given its location on a small rural road, I doubt there's much traffic overnight. I had been revising my opinion after seeing negative reviews about stays in 2023 and 2024, but there are still some drawbacks. It's more like a two-star than a three-star hotel. Reception and the pool close at 7 pm, and room cleaning is only done if you ask.

In June it was extremely quiet. We never heard the neighbors and only saw them once on the balcony. There are very few services, so there wasn't much to disturb the peace. It's a great fit for people wanting a home-away-from-home kind of vacation. Yes, it's in the middle of nowhere, but that's what you book when you choose a room among the polders. Mobile signal is weak, though the internet is stable, if as slow as hotel Wi-Fi usually is. The apartments are more than satisfactory. Cleanliness can depend a lot on the previous tenants, and there may not be enough checks between stays, but with the comfort option our room was spotless. It was very well equipped, with more kitchen utensils than I've seen in many places, the beds were very comfortable, and the view was incredible. I think a lot of disappointed guests may not have read what they booked. Accessibility could be better. The elevator isn't clearly signposted, and from the rear parking area you have to go up a small staircase, then walk a long way, which is difficult for someone with reduced mobility. The optional breakfast is reasonably priced for the area, though you can also shop at Intermarché in Pleine-Fougère, 10-15 minutes away by car. The mountain is just a stone's throw away. Follow the paths around the hotel to reach the edges of the polders and the coast. You can get to the mountain parking lot via the departmental roads or by taking the Bolder paths through to Beauvoir.

There were quite a few problems inside: moldy lampshades, damaged parquet flooring that nearly made me fall, yellowed curtains, cobwebs and grease on the furniture. Space is limited around the round table, and the double bed is made of two single mattresses. Beds aren't made unless you pay extra, and no bathrobes are provided. The pool wasn't heated, or at least that should be checked since several guests have mentioned it. On the good side, I slept well and liked the practical kitchenette, balcony with a clothes dryer and parking. There was a very nice countryside view behind the room, and the nearby Courtepaille restaurant is very good.

The bed was comfortable, and the shower was really spacious and airy. The bench is a nice extra, and the sauna and pool earn bonus points. The walls are well soundproofed. I'd recommend it.