Appart-Hôtel Mer & Golf City Bordeaux Lac

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about this place? It’s actually tucked away in Bordeaux Lac, which honestly feels like a completely different world from the tourist-packed city center. The Appart-Hôtel Mer & Golf City sits on Avenue des 40 Journaux – and yes, that’s a mouthful, but locals just call it “the lake district.” I mean, you’re literally minutes from Lac de Bordeaux, which is this gorgeous spot where Bordelais go to jog, cycle, or just escape the wine bar crowds downtown.

The building itself has that modern French apartment-hotel vibe – nothing fancy, but it’s clean and functional in a way that actually works. What I really appreciated was the apartment-style setup because, let’s be honest, sometimes you just want to make your own coffee without trekking to the lobby at 7 AM. The kitchenettes are surprisingly well-equipped (though the coffee maker is… well, it makes coffee). The rooms face either the quieter residential side or toward the lake area, and if you can swing it, definitely ask for a lake-facing room – the morning light is pretty spectacular, especially in late spring when everything’s blooming.

Here’s the thing about this location that most people don’t realize: you’re actually perfectly positioned between Bordeaux proper and the Atlantic coast. The tram system (line A) runs right through this area, so getting into the historic center takes maybe 20 minutes, but you can also easily shoot west toward the beaches at Lacanau or Arcachon. I stayed here during shoulder season in October, and the whole neighborhood felt authentically French – kids walking to school, neighbors chatting at the boulangerie on the corner, that sort of everyday rhythm you miss when you’re staying in the tourist bubble.

The “golf” part of the name isn’t just marketing speak either – there’s actually a decent golf course nearby, and the whole area has this almost suburban resort feel without being sterile. Parking was never an issue (which, if you’ve driven in Bordeaux center, you’ll understand is basically a miracle). The staff speaks decent English, but they’re clearly more comfortable in French, and honestly, they seem genuinely helpful rather than just going through the motions.

Look, this isn’t going to blow your mind with luxury amenities or Instagram-worthy lobbies. The 7.9 rating feels about right – it’s solid, reliable, and does exactly what it promises. But what makes it worth considering is that you get a real taste of how Bordeaux locals actually live, you’re close enough to everything that matters, and you’re not paying city center prices for the privilege. Plus, if you’re planning day trips to the Médoc wine region or the coast, this location actually makes more sense than staying downtown. The morning quiet alone – just birds and the occasional tram – made it feel like a proper retreat after long days of sightseeing and wine tasting.

Rooms

• Studio Business with 2 × 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• One-Bedroom Apartment with large double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Comfort Studio with 2 × 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 2 children
• Junior Suite with 4 × 1 sofa bed and 2 × 1 large double bed for 8 adults, 4 children

Reviews

• Janet from United States (9/10)

  New property that was comfortable. Restaurants, bars and shopping all around!

• Simon from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Good location for C Tramline, so easy access to the Exhibition Halls on the North of the lake, or back into the city centre. Plenty of space in the apartment, with a good, if tiny, well equipped kitchen space.

• Pravin from India (9/10)

  Location , my room

• Line from France (8/10)

  Clean, big shower, air condition, great view, perfect location for our propose, super close to a big shopping center with lots of restaurants.

• Familton from New Zealand (9/10)

  The location was good, as it was in a large shopping complex. However it was 20 kms from the train station, which we hadn't realized. Fortunately there is a great tram service which can take you right there.

• Begoña from Belgium (7/10)

  The location, the appartments together. Nice bathroom and accomodation and kitchen.

• Sergio from Mexico (9/10)

  The facilities

• Cynthia from France (8/10)

  L'emplacement.

• Kathleen from United States (8/10)

  The staff are super nice! I liked the breakfast a lot. Peaceful area.

• Richard from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Cheap and cheerful option on the outskirts of Bordeaux, very close to tram line for a 20 min ride into city centre. Room large, clean and comfortable. Beds excellent. Right opposite retail park for shopping, every essential catered for, but not very picturesque. Not important for a one night stay, however. Car park directly beneath hotel is only 18 euro for 24 hours and has a lift straight up to the hotel. Would definitely recommend this hotel for those on a budget

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities