Hotel Le Principal

This hotel is particularly notable for its pet-friendly policy and its outdoor swimming pools, making it a strong choice for families and pet owners seeking a convenient and value-oriented stay. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's generally clean rooms and the friendly, accommodating staff. While many appreciate the included breakfast, some aspects of room comfort, such as the beds and noise levels, receive mixed feedback. The hotel's strategic location near local attractions and dining options is a consistent positive. For a more comfortable experience, guests might consider requesting a room away from high-traffic areas or bringing their own pillows, as these are common points of feedback.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers several outdoor swimming pools which are a significant draw, especially for families, though some guests note they are unheated. While the pools are generally praised for being clean and well-maintained, some found them too cold. Free Wi-Fi is available and generally works well. The common areas are considered handy by some, but the overall property is described as aging and in need of updates by others. The elevator is mentioned as being old or "scary" by some, and its limited access to all floors can be inconvenient. Rooms typically include a mini-fridge and microwave, adding to guest convenience. Air conditioning units are present, but frequently described as noisy or ineffective by a number of guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is generally positive, with many rooms described as clean and even renovated. However, some reviews mention issues such as musty smells, carpet stains, or specific instances of mold in bathrooms or AC units. Room condition is varied, with some finding them well-furnished and comfortable, while others describe them as old, tired, or lacking amenities like a desk chair or clock. Bed comfort is a highly mixed topic; many guests find the beds hard or uncomfortable, comparing them to box springs, while others report a good night's sleep. Pillows are consistently criticized for being flat and thin. Noise levels are a significant concern, with frequent complaints about sounds from corridors, neighboring rooms, and the loud AC units, impacting sleep quality. Bathrooms are often described as small or awkward, with some reporting issues like loose fixtures or lack of hot water.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel provides a continental breakfast that receives mixed reviews. Many guests appreciate the variety and the inclusion of waffles, considering it good for a complimentary offering. However, a common point of feedback is the lack of hot food options such as scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage, with only cold hard-boiled eggs often available. Some guests found the breakfast area to be crowded or noted that staff began cleaning up too early. The coffee is generally considered good. Additionally, there is an on-site restaurant, often described as a Chinese or Thai establishment, which guests generally find to be good quality, providing a convenient dining option, especially for late arrivals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major advantage, frequently highlighted for its proximity to the Granby Zoo, making it an ideal base for families visiting the attraction. Guests also appreciate being within walking distance of numerous restaurants and shopping options, providing convenience for meals and other needs. The hotel offers ample parking space, which is generally found to be easy and convenient for guests. Its accessibility to the main road is also noted, though some past road closures have caused temporary navigation challenges. Overall, the location is consistently praised for its convenience to local points of interest and amenities.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as changing rooms due to noise or condition issues. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient. Many reviews commend the staff for going "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, with their positive attitude being a recurring theme. Even when guests encounter issues, the staff's polite and responsive approach is often noted as a mitigating factor, contributing significantly to a positive overall experience.

Additional Information
The hotel's pet-friendly policy is a significant draw for many guests, allowing them to travel with their animals, though some note the challenge of finding suitable outdoor areas nearby. While some parts of the hotel have been renovated, many guests describe the property as aging or tired, suggesting a need for more widespread updates. A specific concern raised by some guests is the strong smell of air fresheners or cleaning products throughout the hotel, which can be overpowering. Some rooms, particularly those in the basement, are noted to have a damp or musty odor. Guests should also be aware that the front desk closes at 11 PM, which can be an inconvenience for late arrivals or those needing assistance during the night.