GRAND HOTEL FRANCAIS - EX BEST WESTERN
About the Castle Hotel
Grand Hôtel Français, Bordeaux - Tradition Meets Modernity
The Grand Hôtel Français, an establishment with a name that echoes its Templar origins, has long been a fixture in Bordeaux, a subtle marriage of tradition and contemporary comfort. It's the kind of place that understands the value of a warm welcome, provided by the Auriacombe family, and the quiet satisfaction of a well-run hotel. As the only Bordeaux hotel to grace the Guide Michelin since its inception, it carries a certain gravitas, a promise of quality that has been consistently delivered.
Location
Positioned as an ideal launchpad for both business and leisure, the Grand Hôtel Français places guests at the heart of Bordeaux's allure. It's a stone's throw from the magnificent Grand Théâtre and Place de la Bourse, with the famed Rue Sainte-Catherine, Europe's longest shopping street, just a short stroll away. The proximity to the business district, cathedral, museums, and the Esplanade des Quinconces ensures that the city's pulse is always within easy reach. For those arriving by train, Bordeaux Saint-Jean station is a mere 2.5 km distant, with Merignac airport a manageable 15 km away.
Style and Character
This charming hotel reveals its history through its name, referencing a Templar convent from 1158, yet it embraces modernity with a certain grace. It's a place that manages to feel both classic and current, a characteristic that has undoubtedly contributed to its sustained presence in the Guide Michelin. Its participation in the annual sustainable development week, along with its status as the first Bordeaux establishment to earn the European Ecolabel, speaks to a thoughtful approach to hospitality, one that respects both its guests and the environment. This commitment to quality and sustainability underpins the hotel's enduring appeal.
Service and Facilities
The reception team here makes a point of ensuring your stay is a pleasant one, a professional yet personal touch that sets a welcoming tone. For those conducting business, the hotel offers two meeting rooms, Merlot et Malbec, equipped with high-speed WiFi and air conditioning, capable of accommodating up to 50 delegates across various configurations. The communal areas are secured by a video surveillance system, adding an extra layer of reassurance. While not a resort, the hotel provides a serene base for exploring the city.
Rooms
The hotel offers 35 rooms, each designed for comfort and convenience. Guests often opt for the Superior rooms, which feature queen-size beds and private bathrooms complete with a shower or bathtub. All rooms are equipped with essential amenities: air conditioning, free WiFi, a flat-screen television, a refrigerator for personal use, and a coffee and tea machine for that first morning brew. An individual safe is provided for peace of mind. For guests requiring more accessible accommodations, a spacious 26m² room has been specifically adapted for people with reduced mobility.
Food and Drink
Breakfast is a highlight, served from 6:30 am to 10:30 am in the dedicated breakfast room. The hot and cold buffet is a thoughtful spread, featuring organic and fair-trade produce. You can expect a selection of cereals, granola, French yogurt, hot drinks including Nespresso, local AOC cheeses, jams, Nutella, fresh bread, juices, cooked meats, and Viennese pastries. It's a solid start to the day, whether you're heading out to explore or preparing for meetings.
Value for Money
Breakfast is priced at 14€ per adult per day, a reasonable sum for the quality and variety offered. Given its prime location, its long-standing reputation with the Guide Michelin, and its commitment to environmental standards, the Grand Hôtel Français represents solid value, particularly for travelers seeking a comfortable, convenient, and ethically conscious base in Bordeaux. The inclusion of essential amenities in all rooms and the availability of adapted rooms further contribute to its worth.
Accessibility
Recognizing the diverse needs of its guests, the Grand Hôtel Français has made provisions for accessibility. A large 26m² room has been specifically adapted for people with reduced mobility, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. This thoughtful inclusion is a critical aspect of the hotel's welcoming philosophy.
Family-Friendly
While not explicitly a family resort, the hotel's location near shopping streets like Rue Sainte-Catherine makes it practical for families seeking souvenirs or essentials. It's important to note that children over the age of 4 will be considered adults when requesting an additional bed, a practical detail for families planning their accommodation needs. The hotel is ideal for spending festive seasons with friends or family, offering a comfortable and central base for shared experiences.
Choose your room
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Local transport options
Overview of transport connections
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Lift
- Coffee shop
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Snack bar
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cots
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
- Bathroom for disabled
Room features
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Soundproofed rooms
- Sitting area
- Ironing facilities
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor