Hotel Gratte-Ciel Ariana

This hotel, conveniently located with metro access and close to the heart of Villeurbanne, is often chosen by budget travelers or those seeking a convenient base for short stays. Despite its advantageous location and the consistently praised friendly staff, guests frequently highlight the hotel's significantly dated condition and pervasive cleanliness issues. Many rooms are described as very old, worn out, and poorly maintained, with numerous reports of dust, stains, and general disrepair. A recurring concern is the lack of consistent hot water and adequate water pressure in showers. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to thoroughly inspect your room upon arrival and be prepared for potential maintenance issues, as the hotel's infrastructure is a common point of contention among visitors.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers underground parking, which is appreciated for its security, though guests note it can be expensive and has a low ceiling, making access challenging for some vehicles. Wi-Fi connectivity is a frequent point of frustration, with many guests reporting it is either non-functional in rooms or very slow, often only reliably available in the reception area. While a fitness center is present, some reviews indicate it is not well-maintained or easily accessible. Guests also mention issues with the elevator, describing it as old and sometimes problematic. In-room amenities like mini-fridges and kettles are available, but their functionality can be inconsistent, and there are widespread complaints about the air conditioning or heating systems being non-functional, noisy, or impossible to regulate, leading to uncomfortable room temperatures.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is a major and consistent concern for many guests. Reviews frequently mention visible dust, hair, and various stains on carpets, walls, and even bedding. Bathrooms are often described as dirty, with reports of mold, yellowed fixtures, and sticky floors. The overall room condition is widely criticized for being very old and unmaintained, featuring worn-out furniture, peeling wallpaper, and broken fixtures. While some guests find the beds comfortable, others report worn-out mattresses with noticeable springs. Poor sound insulation is a common complaint, leading to disturbances from street noise, neighbor noise, and loud ventilation noise, impacting guests' ability to rest. In-room amenities like showerheads are often reported as broken or leaking, and torn towels are a recurring issue.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding the breakfast is mixed. Some guests describe it as copious and satisfactory, offering a decent start to the day. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that the food quality is poor, with mentions of stale pastries, limited breakfast variety, and industrial-tasting items. Some guests feel the breakfast is overpriced for what is offered, suggesting that the quality does not justify the cost. The breakfast area itself sometimes receives comments about its general appearance or the attentiveness of staff during service.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in Villeurbanne is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage. Guests appreciate its close metro access, which provides convenient and quick connections to various parts of Lyon, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. The surrounding area is noted for its vibrancy, with nearby shops, restaurants, and other amenities within easy walking distance. While underground parking is available on-site, its cost is frequently mentioned by guests. The hotel's position offers a practical and accessible option for travelers relying on public transport.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive high praise from guests. They are frequently described as exceptionally friendly staff, helpful staff, and welcoming staff, often going out of their way to assist guests despite the hotel's noted physical shortcomings. Many reviews highlight their attentive service and responsiveness to guest concerns, such as requests for room changes or attempts to resolve maintenance issues. The quick check-in process is also appreciated, contributing to a positive initial impression. The staff's dedication to providing good service is a recurring positive theme across numerous reviews.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates with an older key system, requiring guests to leave their room keys at the reception desk when leaving the premises. Furthermore, the hotel often requires upfront payment for the entire stay upon arrival, which some guests find unusual compared to other establishments. While the hotel attempts to provide certain amenities, their functionality can be inconsistent.