Saint-Pierre-la-Mer Vacations from $1,530

Beds were comfortable and room was clean.

First impressions of the hotel were awful. On pulling into the parking area in front of the hotel, I thought, "Oh no. What have I done". The parking area felt unsafe. The hotel, and particularly the gardens, looked tired, dated and unkempt. It got worse. When we checked in, they had not got our reservation from Expedia so that took a while to sort out. We had paid extra for a better room but when we eventually got to the allocated room, it was a basic single - so we headed back to reception to get it changed. So why is this not a 1* review ? Once we were past the initial disappointment, we found that there was a separate, secure parking area. The room itself had been renovated and looked like the photos on Expedia. The bed was comfortable - so we got a great night's sleep. So, overall, we had to say that it was "OK".

My husband and I wanted to visit Arles and explore Provence at the same time. We chose this hotel because it was out in the countryside. It is a very safe, secure and charming setting with fields or sunflowers and rice! where the noise of the birds, crickets and frogs are audible day and night. The gardens are extensive and beautiful, very natural and relaxing…. Lovely nighttime strolls and daytime walks made it a feast for the senses, ancient and new seats everywhere to sit and absorb the ambience. The pool is well maintained and spacious with lots of seats and parasols if needed. Breakfast was fresh and plentiful with options for eggs if wanted. We were told to bring in our own food and drink if we wanted and utensils etc are provided onsite. Our room was spacious and very clean with a lovely new bathroom and shower en-suite. Overall, it made me understand why Van Gogh painted so many of his paintings of Arles and the countryside around it. We will definitely be back. A charming authentic p k ace to stay. Would highly recommend.