Grand Hotel Des Bains

The staff were impeccable, from the helpful and courteous front desk to the efficient, diligent housekeepers. The car valet is a great amenity. The rooms have a 1970s look, though. I’d call it a five-star hotel because of its history and location. Room service isn't comprehensive, and there’s no laundry service on weekends.

We had a great experience. The service and food were very good, and it’s a perfect place for either a business trip or a holiday.

The central location, close to the beach, is a plus, as are the friendly, professional staff and the good variety at breakfast. The hotel has lovely classical decor. There’s also a small but excellent spa with hot pools, plus a nice large terrace pool. The Classic Double room was extremely small. There was so little floor space that we couldn't even open a large suitcase, which feels totally inadequate for a five-star standard. The bathroom was tiny and dark, and half its window was shared with the room next door. That might be acceptable in a hostel, but not here. It gave the impression the rooms had been split in half to fit in more beds. The Wi-Fi was very weak and patchy, making it impossible to work from the room. Thin walls and windows meant we heard street traffic, voices from neighboring rooms, and garbage collectors in the morning. There were also discos or bars on the hotel's street playing loud techno until after 05:00. There wasn't really a comfortable spot to relax and read. The lobby was dark and uncomfortable, the terrace was too hot, and the seating by the entrance parking was the least uncomfortable option, though not ideal. A shaded garden terrace or lounge is missing.

The buffet breakfast shows how much attention they pay to detail, and the service comes with a smile. They’re about as guest-focused as you could hope for, in a cool little city. Highly recommended, even though the Art Deco style was a let-down I could overlook.