Hotel Le Recif

We stayed six nights over Christmas and New Year with our family, and the high price made the value for money hard to accept, especially compared with other options. Our two connecting rooms in the Family Suite were kept clean and in good condition. The internet only worked for a few minutes each day. We could use our home service because Réunion Island is part of the EU, but I imagine that could be a problem for visitors from outside the EU. The staff were the best part: very friendly and attentive, and excellent at breakfast, which was good. Food was only available at certain times, with little flexibility if you wanted something small between meals. I considered giving three stars because of the staff, but decided against it since we weren't happy with the hotel overall.

We enjoyed the stay, even though it didn't feel worth what we paid. Breakfast was the main letdown: the choice was limited and it was the same food as the day before. Fresh papaya, mango or pineapple would have been nice. The hotel is close to the beach, with clean, comfortable rooms, welcoming staff, fun activities and quiet corners where you can relax.

Dinner buffet was excellent, the grounds were well kept, and the staff were friendly and accommodating. Breakfast, on the other hand, was the same throughout our stay with no variety. There were no snacks at the bar while having a swim or a drink, which seemed very odd. Our room was dated and not very clean. The sheets were changed only twice, coffee cups were rinsed in the bathroom basin, the shower had no ventilation, and the tiny fridge had a broken shelf. The hotel gave us no information at all about tours. The rooms also felt overpriced. Better fridges, ceiling fans and security doors that let in the sea breeze while keeping snakes out would help. We stayed from 5-7 to 11-7 2023. It was an okay stay and we made it work, but the place is definitely dated and overpriced.

It's been a long time since I stayed here, but I remember being impressed. The rooms, food, room service and location were all excellent, and we didn't have a bad experience. We also went diving, which the hotel arranged for us using facilities it had at the time. Whatever we asked for was provided right away. I don't know if it's still as good, but I imagine the location and terrace view haven't changed. Definitely visit the Safari adventures for a walk with the lions!