Hôtel Les Negociants

Breakfast was amazing, with really fresh bread and pastries, and the service was great. The rooms are tiny and dated, so don't expect a large, newly done room. Still, for the price, it's a good choice. The location is the best in Valence, next to the train station and within walking distance of attractions and restaurants.

The room had a plastic bath floor, and the whole bathroom looked worn. The carpet hadn't been cleaned properly. There was no coffee maker, kettle, minibar or small fridge, just a bed, little table and chair. Absolutely below standard. Makes me wonder what the standard rooms are like. We booked a superior room directly with the hotel and requested one facing the street. Instead, we got a room overlooking the "back yard" with what I guess was the restaurant kitchen's aircon roaring all day and night. The room was under 12 square meters, and the only way to get a quiet night's sleep was to shut the window and hope not to suffocate. When we asked the front desk to move us to the street-facing room we had requested, they said they were "fully booked with groups". Are guests in groups more valuable?

The restaurant was brilliant, with a fine vegetarian meal, and breakfast was meaningful too. Staff were friendly, efficient, multilingual and careful with my bike, which had its own room overnight. My room was big, very clean and airy. I'm a handicap and needed to adjust my appliances single-handedly, but the shower fitting had no anchor point and could only be held in my hand. That's why I'd call it a 4.5-star experience. Great for cyclists, with Accueil Vélo approval and commitment to the charter.

It's very convenient for the train and bus station, and English is spoken. The food was good and very fairly priced, with a nice atmosphere. No wonder they're so busy. We arrived unexpectedly after my husband was hospitalised during our coach trip from Spain. The hotel may only be two stars, but the staff and service were 5 star.+. They welcomed us with real kindness and care.