Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes

Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes: A Comprehensive Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property, offers a luxurious and captivating experience in the heart of Bordeaux. Housed in a beautifully transformed 19th-century wine cellar, the hotel, designed by Philippe Starck, is widely praised for its stunning aesthetics, exceptional service, and sophisticated amenities.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently rating it as "wonderful" or "magnifique." Many reviews highlight a "luxurious stay" and an "amazing property" with an "aesthetic that is simply stunning." The hotel consistently receives high scores for cleanliness (9.6), comfort (9.6), and staff (9.3).

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes:

• Design & Aesthetic: The hotel's design by Philippe Starck, transforming a 19th-century castle into a modern cultural fairytale, is a major draw. Guests describe it as "beautiful" with "attention to detail at every turn" and a "grand, perfectly designed" ambiance.
• Service & Staff: The staff receives widespread acclaim for being "super welcoming and friendly," "professional," "attentive," and "helpful."
• Amenities: The hotel's spa facilities, including an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, and steam rooms, are frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a relaxing and pleasant experience. The presence of a fitness center and wellness packages also adds to its appeal.
• Dining: The Morimoto restaurant and the quality of the food and wine list are often praised.

3. Room Quality

The rooms and suites are described as a modern interpretation of historic Bordeaux living, featuring warm tones, mirrors, and elegant ornamentation. They are equipped with luxury boutique comforts, including Lavazza espresso makers and sleek stone-clad bathrooms with walk-in showers. Guests appreciate the cleanliness, comfort, and thoughtful details such as dark-out curtains, comfortable bedding, and plush room slippers. Some rooms also offer balconies or terraces. Soundproofing is also a noted feature.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel's signature restaurant, Morimoto Bordeaux, is the first European outpost of Japanese Master Chef Masaharu Morimoto. It blends Asian culinary artistry with Western flavors, offering a vibrant menu with dishes like sushi and Peking duck that receive praise for outstanding flavors and presentation. The restaurant also boasts an excellent wine card and a selection of sakes.

Breakfast is celebrated as a "great and fresh" buffet, with a nice spread of cold and hot foods, including cheeses, meats, fresh fruit, pastries, and Lavazza coffee. However, some guests have noted that the breakfast, while varied and good, might not always meet "5-star standards" and could benefit from more organic, local, seasonal, lactose-free, and gluten-free options.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professional service. Guests have highlighted the welcoming nature of the reception and valet teams, and their willingness to offer recommendations. The attentive service from staff members contributes to a warm atmosphere. Some isolated feedback mentions long wait times or attitudes at breakfast and the Morimoto restaurant.

6. Location & Accessibility

Located in the Chartrons district, the hotel is positioned near attractions such as the Wine and Trade Museum (a 9-minute walk) and La Cite du Vin (1.2 miles or 1.9 km). While some guests find it "a little far from the city center," it is accessible by trams, and its location is also described as a "peaceful retreat away from the city's hustle." Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport is approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) away.

7. Value & Pricing

Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes offers a 5-star luxury experience, which comes with a premium price tag. Room rates average between $401 and $450, although prices can start from around $187-$213 for a one-night stay, depending on the dates. Guests generally consider it an outstanding blend of quality and value, appreciating the lavish stay and the hotel's exquisite design, amenities, and impeccable service.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are largely positive, a few recurring criticisms have been noted:

• Poolside Seating: A common complaint is the insufficient number of deck chairs by the indoor pool, leading to situations where many guests cannot find a seat. There have also been mentions of "reserved" signs on chairs that remain unoccupied for extended periods.
• Breakfast Variety (Specific Dietary Needs): While the breakfast buffet is generally good, some feedback suggests a desire for more organic, local, seasonal, lactose-free, and gluten-free options to meet 5-star standards.
• Gym Size: The gym is noted as being small and can quickly become crowded with more than three people.
• Service Inconsistencies: A few guests have reported long waits or issues with staff attitude during breakfast and at the Morimoto restaurant.
• Parking Cost: Valet parking is available but comes at a cost of EUR 40 per day.

Sources

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