Hôtel Vignemale

The only thing "Grand" about the Hotel Vignemale is the view. We stayed there at the end of September when they were just about to close for the season, and we were the only guests, but even so the facilities were very disappointing. The reception did not open until 5pm. The restaurant was closed. Our room and en suite facilities were very small. All of this might have been (just) acceptable if it were not for the elevated price - we have stayed in more expensive hotels but seldom in one which charged so much and offered so little.

This hotel is very overpriced and in desperate need of renovation. It should be rated 2 stars at the most. The bathrooms are from the 1970s and the bath/shower even had a plastic shower curtain- something I have not seen in a hotel bathroom for over 10 years. The common areas are dull and old fashion. Breakfast is overpriced and uninspiring. We were meant to have their best room but it didn’t look at all like their photos on the website. Also be very careful of their booking conditions as once you have arrived you can’t make any changes to your stay without paying for the amount of days you have booked for. We had a technical problem with our car and gave 24 hours notice that we had to leave two days early but still had to pay for one nights stay. There were two positive points. One - the views are fantastic from the hotel and two - Lydia the hotel manager was extremely helpful. I hope the owner will take note of this review.

Spent 4 nights and 5 days enjoying the fabulous vistas and hikes in the area. The hotel has a captivating view of the Cirque de Gavarnie from rooms and the breakfast parlor. The staff treated us like family and offered expert advice on hikes and rainy day activities. There was so much more to see and do that we can’t wait to visit again. You’ll leap out bed every morning to open the curtains and marvel at the sun shining on the mountains and waterfalls.

This is an historic hotel of great character, rescued and modernised to a high standard by the family who now own and run it. We spent three nights in very comfortable and well appointed rooms that look out on to the Cirque de Gavarnie, which must be the most spectacular site in the Pyrenees. We were made most welcome: the family are friendly and very helpful. We certainly hope to stay there again when walking in the High Pyrenees.