Hôtel-Restaurant L Ander

Getting into Saint-Flour's old town is a challenge without transport. It's a tough 45-minute uphill walk to the brasseries and restaurants. The hotel itself was clean and easy to find, and the staff were mostly okay, but the owner's sharp, rude manner spoiled the atmosphere. We ended up eating at the hotel even though that wasn't our plan. The restaurant was reasonably nice, but we had to order on their terms because they wanted to close at 9 pm sharp, despite being busy. It also cost quite a bit more than a street brasserie. Her attitude left a real mark on our stay.

We stopped at L'Ander hotel in the early evening while looking for somewhere to stay. The large car park next door worked well for my caravan, though the receptionist wasn't especially welcoming and didn't smile. The room was okay, but the bed was rather small for two. Breakfast was the biggest letdown: at €10, there was very little choice. Even though I speak French fairly fluently, we still didn't feel particularly welcome. Disappointing, and based on this stay I wouldn't recommend it.

The meal may have had Michelin-star ambitions, but the service was awful and the whole thing was a disappointment. We got a frosty welcome from Madame, too. Stay the night if you must, but eat somewhere else unless you want to leave disappointed. The hotel's best chance at a star rating is somewhere the sun doesn't shine.

Top marks!!!!