De Chiberta & Golf Hotel Biarritz

( 3 stars , Biarritz , France )

When we eventually found this hotel (even the locals seemed unsure how to find it) we found it welcoming, with plenty of parking in generous grounds. The room was large but lacked character, and the broken French window, although we reported it, was not fixed during our 2 day stay. Breakfast was served until 10.00, but by 9.45 it was obvious that the staff were anxious to get rid of us. Throughout the meal there were staff tidying and cleaning around us. When we asked for hot water to replace the lukewarm water in a flask that must have been sitting for hours, we were actually refused. This is clearly mainly a conference centre, not focused on the needs of ordinary guests, but when Biarritz itself is packed out, it's a useful staging post.

Spent a few days there in July '07 in the residence attached to the hotel. Facilities on the grounds are reasonably good, although it's generally looking a bit dated. Accommodation standard is good, certainly acceptable for the price. Reception staff were pleasant and friendly, unlike a few of the restaurant staff. Breakfast was fine, but we had the most expensive evening meal of the holiday in the hotel restaurant and probably the most disappointing. There is room for improvement in the service and menu choice in order to match the price. The hotel is close to nice beaches and convenient (by car) to Biarritz which is a lovely town. For those who enjoy sports, there's a fine golf course, driving range, choice of swimming pools on-site and tennis nearby. The hotel discount on green fees is poor (I think €3 off the €86 peak season price) and they don't offer club rental facilities. In general the hotel was fine for our purpose of relaxing for a few days and exploring the French Basque region, but we probably won't be rushing back.