Rolland

Hotel Description

So I’ve stayed at the Rolland a few times now, and honestly? It’s one of those places that just gets it right without trying too hard. You know how some hotels feel like they’re performing for you – well, this isn’t that. It’s tucked right in the heart of Bordeaux’s city center, and I mean properly central, not that “city center adjacent” nonsense you sometimes get.

The thing about the Rolland is it feels authentically Bordeaux in a way that matters. The building itself has that weathered French elegance – not pristine, but lived-in and comfortable. When you’re checking in, you can actually hear the city humming outside, which I know sounds like it might be annoying, but it’s not. It’s more like… you’re really here, you know? The staff actually remember you if you’ve been before (rare these days), and they’ll give you the real scoop on where to grab coffee that doesn’t cost €6. There’s this little café about two blocks down Rue Sainte-Catherine that they told me about – locals only, basically.

What I really appreciate is how the rooms don’t try to be something they’re not. They’re clean, comfortable, properly sized for a 3-star place, and the beds are actually good – like, you’ll sleep well, not just okay. The bathrooms are updated enough that you won’t feel like you’re roughing it, but they haven’t gone overboard with marble and gold fixtures that would just feel silly. I mean, you’re here to explore Bordeaux, not hide in your room, right? Though honestly, after walking around the wine bars near Place de la Bourse all evening (which is maybe a 7-minute walk), you’ll be grateful for a comfortable bed. The neighborhood gets pretty lively on weekends – in a good way – but the windows are decent enough that it won’t keep you up unless you’re an incredibly light sleeper.

Here’s what sold me on coming back: they actually understand what travelers need. There’s always hot water, the WiFi works properly throughout the building, and – this is key – they don’t nickel and dime you for every little thing. Plus, you’re literally surrounded by everything worth doing in Bordeaux. The tram stops right nearby if you want to head out to the wine regions, but honestly, most of what you came for is walkable. That whole stretch down to the Garonne River? Perfect for morning runs or evening strolls, and you’ll pass about fifteen wine bars worth trying along the way.

I wouldn’t call it fancy, but it’s solid and genuine in a way that feels increasingly rare. The kind of place where you can leave your stuff and explore the city without worrying, then come back to a room that feels like a proper home base. For the price point and that location – I mean, you’re practically on top of some of the best wine and food in France – it’s honestly hard to beat. Just don’t expect a concierge who’ll arrange helicopter tours or anything. This is more about giving you a comfortable, well-located spot to crash while you discover why everyone’s obsessed with this city.

Rooms

• Apartment with 4 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults
• Two-Bedroom Deluxe Apartment with Balcony with 4 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

Reviews

• Lesley from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Spacious, excellent facilities, beautiful architecture. Very comfortable beds.

• Andrew from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The size of the place was very good. It had a small outside area that was fine to let air through the house. We tended to open the lovely long windows and watch the street below.
  The street was fairly quiet for a city but so close to great places to eat and bars. There is also very chic shops close by.

• Forster from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Wonderful location in the centre of Bordeaux. Spacious and comfortable apartment, ideal for our short stay in beautiful Bordeaux

• Nicole from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Fantastic location and brilliant large space that was perfect for 5 of us!
  
  Property was clean and the host was great.

• Stephen from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Loads of space excellent location central to old city round the corner from Gambetta

• Alison from Australia (7/10)

  The apartment was spacious and well located. The beds comfortable.

• Martin from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Good location

• Delyth from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Very good location clean apartment

• Toni from United Kingdom (9/10)

  The apartment was in a great location. Very spacious for the six of us and very comfortable. Would definitely stay again

• Caroline from France (7/10)

  spacious

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities