Hotel Le Renoir

The pool area was clean and tidy, with towels provided, loungers for sunbathing and a separate seating spot with a table. There is disabled access to the area, though getting into the pool itself was difficult: the first step down was too deep to reach, and there was no handrail or ladder. Younger or more agile people might manage it. Our bedroom was spacious, with a comfortable king-sized bed, and breakfast had a really good range of food and drinks. The receptionist was courteous and friendly. The hotel was easy to find with Sat Nav. Free parking was on the street, with a 15-minute unloading bay, but it could be hard to find a nearby space in peak season because the location is popular. The main downside was the free wifi, which was so weak we couldn't send or receive messages. Even so, it's a lovely hotel with very friendly staff.

We were here with a tour group, and we advised them not to book this place again. The odd policy was that you couldn't bring your own food or drinks to enjoy by the pool or at the outdoor tables, you had to buy them at the bar or restaurant. The hotel is only two blocks from the village's historic center. The rooms seem recently updated, especially our bathroom, but ours had no towel racks, hooks or toilet paper holder. Shampoo, conditioner and shower gel came in awkward triangular packets that had to be torn open, with nowhere in the shower to set them down.

This is our second stay here, all the way from New Zealand. Breakfast is worth adding, with lots of options, and the staff are helpful and speak excellent English. In the hot European summer of 2023, having a pool was a real blessing. The hotel is ideally placed in Sarlat, with an easy walk to the old town and the famous Saturday market, which you shouldn't miss. There are plenty of restaurants within an easy walk. Parking is available, though it's best to arrive early for a spot; free parking is also just at the top of the road where the hotel is.

A couple of months ago I had such a great trip that I'm already thinking about coming back. Adele gave me a lovely welcome, and Justine shared lots of great restaurant tips and little-known places to visit, shhh... hope you liked my present, by the way! My room was great and clean, with a beautiful view of the pool. And the breakfast... oh my, don't miss it! The only downside is getting to the lovely places outside Sarlat without a car. There's not much public transport.