“Great Value - Great Location”
Our first visit to the Mercure Hotel at Deauville exceeded our expectations. We were upgraded to a room with a balcony and view of the port along with a welcome gift of a shoulder bag filled with goodies. The room was spacious, well furnished and equiped, including tea and coffee making facilities,replenished daily. Everything looked new or nearly new. The buffet breakfast is the most comprehensive imaginable and included bacon, egg and sausage, for those that crave an 'English' breakfast. Although situated on the corner of a busy road - Quai de la Marine - with the sliding balcony door closed, it was quiet enough. The rooms have air conditioning provided by a large ceiling fan that also pumps out cold air if required. we chose this hotel because of its location. 5 mins to town centre, 5 mins to seafront and - you've guessed it - 5 mins across the bridge to Trouville where the shops and restaurants are more affordable. This must be our tenth visit to Deauville and this Mercure hotel is the most satisfiying to date. Are there any complaints ?
- Well, yes. The hotels private garage parking seems pretty steep at the current rate of exchange, but there is plenty of free parking in the road outside or the large car park almost opposite. Would we go back again ? - Definately.
Area recommendations
If travelling by car, I would recommend a location as close as possible to the yacht marina. Access in and out of town is easier, access by foot to all the principle features of the town are a short walk, and access by foot to Trouville is a doddle.
When to go
May, June or mid September, for a quieter time. July, August and early September for crowds and the American Film Festival.
Getting there
By car, depending where you live. For those in the South East, Dover/Calais gives you approx. 180 miles or 3 hours drive. Southhampton/Le Havre puts you right on the doorstep but costs more and only for those that like staring at the sea.
Must see
Where to start? Must see's include Honfluer, Bayeux, Bouvron en Auge, Beaumont en Auge, Pont L'Eveque and the castle at Falaise. There is also Monet's Garden 80 miles away and of course the D Day landing beaches - about 50 miles drive. This part of normandy is bristling with pretty villages,
gardens and cider farms.
Dining
Expensive dining at Deauville. Better value dining at Trouville
Outdoors or beach
Best beaches include Deauville, Trouville and Cabourge.
