Chateau De Sully

The building is impressive and exceptionally well cared for, though the toilet could use some attention. The restaurant experience was a real disappointment, the worst meal during a week of good food in Normandy. We left feeling uncared for. The food was plain, and salt can't fix everything. The floor cleaning also seemed questionable. I booked by email well in advance. I had to follow up before anyone confirmed a table. I mentioned that it was a special occasion and that we were looking forward to the Michelin recommended cuisine, but nobody acknowledged it during the evening, not even with a simple anniversary greeting. That's not required, but it is part of the service and experience I expected. Our table wasn't ready at booking time, so we went to the bar. The bartender was friendly and clearly trying his best, and told us it was his second day. We tried to put him at ease, but it was hard to understand why someone so new was left in charge of service. Making a simple international cocktail seemed a struggle. He didn't know how to make a Negroni, which is one third of each of its three ingredients with a slice of orange, without shaking or stirring. My husband hadn't wanted one, but after the first drink took so long, he ordered the same to make things easier. The drinks had to be sent back because there was no orange, yet we were charged €36 for the two. That felt ridiculous. We were also served lovely amuse-bouche while sitting at a low table without a napkin, which made eating them awkward. We weren't told whether our table was ready or shown where to go, so eventually we left the bar and tried the restaurant ourselves. Fortunately, a table was available. We chose the tasting menu, which had a set starter and dessert, with a choice of two mains. After we ordered, we were told our chosen main had run out. The waiter spoke no English, making communication difficult, and we were surprised this hadn't been mentioned before we ordered. The alternative was a flavorless, poorly assembled turkey dish. Our wine choice was unavailable too. We were surprised to see that on the list, got no apology, and were offered another wine that ended up costing more. I sent the hotel pretty much this review and gave them the chance to make things right, since businesses depend partly on feedback and can have an off night. Beyond a few tepid apologies, they asked us to return and give them another chance. Why would I go back to an overpriced restaurant with poor service and disappointing food? A pretty setting may attract guests, but this experience won't bring us back.

We've stayed at Chateau de Sully twice now, and we'd happily return. It's a very nice hotel in a great spot near Bayeux and the Normandy beaches, though it isn't the Ritz-Carlton. I only bring that up because one obnoxious American guest spent our stay loudly complaining about everything as if it were supposed to be. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the staff are friendly, and the grounds are beautiful. We enjoyed a good breakfast and a very good dinner at the restaurant, then a late drink in the quiet bar. Thanks for a memorable stay.

We only had one night here and wished we could've stayed longer. Traveling with our six children, we found the family suite spacious, quiet, and comfortable. The grounds are lovely and well maintained. We had a drink in the bar last night, while the children played chess and cards in the separate game room. Breakfast was a generous spread of local goods. The staff made the biggest impression, so attentive and kind, and wonderful with the children. We'll certainly stay again.

A clean, peaceful place to stay. Dinner was a very pleasant surprise, with excellent quality and flavors. Breakfast wasn't as impressive. The egg cooker and some other equipment were stuck, and we'd expected more local specialties.