Hotel Vatel Bordeaux

Hotel Description

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to Hotel Vatel Bordeaux on Cours du Médoc – the Chartrons district isn’t exactly where most tourists end up, which is actually part of its charm. This 4-star spot sits right in what used to be Bordeaux’s wine merchant quarter, and you can still feel that history in the narrow cobblestone streets around it. The building itself has this understated elegance that feels very Bordeaux – not flashy, but solid and confident in its own skin.

What really won me over was how the staff seemed to genuinely know their stuff about the neighborhood. I mean, sure, they’ll point you toward the obvious spots like Place des Quinconces (it’s literally a 10-minute walk), but they also clued me in on this fantastic little wine bar tucked away on Rue Notre Dame that I never would’ve found otherwise. The rooms are what you’d expect from a proper 4-star – clean lines, decent space, and those thick curtains that actually block out the morning light. The bathrooms are surprisingly spacious, though I’ll be honest, the shower pressure could be better. Not terrible, just… well, it’s France, you know what I mean?

The location is really the star here though. You’re close enough to walk to the Cité du Vin if that’s your thing (about 15 minutes along the river), but far enough from the touristy center that you feel like you’re experiencing actual Bordeaux life. There’s this great little market on Saturday mornings just a few blocks away where locals actually shop – I picked up some incredible cheese there that made for perfect picnic supplies. Parking can be a bit tricky on the street, but the hotel has a garage (costs extra, naturally). The tram line is practically at your doorstep, which makes getting around the city dead simple. I actually enjoyed my evening walks back from dinner downtown – the route takes you past some beautiful 18th-century buildings, and the lighting along the Garonne is pretty spectacular. With that 8.6 rating, you’re getting solid value without the premium you’d pay for staying right in the historic center, plus you’ll have stories about discovering parts of Bordeaux that most visitors completely miss.

Rooms

• Standard Double or Twin Room with 1 large double bed, or and 2 single beds for 2 adults
• Superior Double or Twin Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Double Room with 1 large double bed, or and 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Two Connecting Double Rooms with 2 extra-large double beds for 4 adults

Reviews

• Cliona from Ireland (9/10)

  Super location, close to the river and a couple of mins walk to the tram.

• Mary from United States (8/10)

  Check in; clean room; location 2 blocks from river cruise ship

• Felicia from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The location was quiet. The room was a good size and the beds very comfortable. The bathroom was also a good size with good facilities. The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful.

• Francis from United States (9/10)

  The breakfast was below the standard of a hotel buffet breakfast and was overpriced.

• Juan from Spain (9/10)

  The location of the hotel was fantastic, and had a very clean presentation. The furniture was of a higher quality and felt comfortable. The shower had great pressure and everything was tidy.

• Sharron from United Kingdom (8/10)

  staff were very friendly on arrival. hotel was very close to the tram stop which was very convenient, although it is quite a distance from the airport , you have to change trams in the centre and get on another line to reach the hotel. room was quite spacious although view was quite disappointing, we were overlooked by another room and also from an apartment just facing. so tried to keep the curtains closed.

• Joan from United States (9/10)

  staff and location wonderful

• Thipavan from Thailand (9/10)

  It turned out the hotel is part of a hotelier institution with only 11 guest rooms. The rest of the building was classrooms. The hotel building is an old and classic building, Receptionists were friendly and extremely helpful. Our room was quite large with well-equipped bathroom. The beds were comfortable but the single beds we had were rather small, probably only 3 feet. Breakfast was of Continental Style but with good quality ingredients. Bread was delicious and fresh. We had lunch in their restaurant and although their menu was small, the food was delicious and beautifully presented.

• Michele from Australia (9/10)

  Very comfortable bed. Excellent access to parking. Very pleasant & helpful staff. Fantastic location to walk along the river in to the old town.

• Julie from United Kingdom (9/10)

  What a gem! Beautiful large room. Very comfortable, clean and well equipped. Loved the large bathroom. Staff were very friendly. Breakfast was superb. Great location by the river. We will definitely return for a longer stay at Bordeaux

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities