Hôtel La Zoologie

This hotel, a beautifully renovated former scientific building, stands out for its unique design and historical charm, offering guests a memorable stay. Its signature feature is the clever integration of its past as a zoology and geology institute, evident in its artistic interiors and a lush "jungle" patio. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff, comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and relaxing spa facilities. The hotel is an ideal fit for couples seeking a romantic getaway, sightseers exploring the city, and business travelers attending events, with some also noting its suitability for families. To enhance your experience, consider booking spa access in advance due to limited capacity, and be mindful of the room's open bathroom design if privacy is a concern.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for guest comfort and relaxation. The spa is a significant draw, featuring a hammam, sauna, and jacuzzi, though some guests noted the hammam and sauna were not always sufficiently heated, and advance booking is often required due to its intimate size. A fitness center is available, though some found it small and with limited equipment. The beautiful garden and patio area provide a serene escape. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests experienced slow speeds or connectivity issues. Underground parking is conveniently located nearby, though it can be an additional cost. The hotel also provides bikes for rent, offering a pleasant way to explore the city, and a roof terrace for relaxation, though some wished for more comfortable seating.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean, spacious, and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. The comfortable beds are frequently highlighted, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests found the pillows less than ideal. Many rooms feature soaking tubs and are equipped with coffee makers, L'Occitane products, and complimentary Evian water, enhancing the in-room experience. However, some guests noted minor issues such as mold in showers, chipped paint, or loose fixtures, suggesting areas for maintenance. The glass-walled bathrooms and showers are a prominent design feature, offering a unique aesthetic but raising privacy concerns for some, especially when sharing a room with friends or family. Noise levels received mixed feedback, with some rooms being quiet, while others experienced disturbances from ventilation, street activity, or a nearby school. The absence of an in-room fridge was a minor inconvenience for several visitors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive considerable praise, contributing significantly to the guest experience. The breakfast buffet is generally well-regarded for its variety and quality products, including fresh pastries and bread, though some guests reported issues with cold hot food options or occasional disorganization during busy periods. The main restaurant is highly acclaimed for its excellent food quality, beautiful decor, and attentive service, despite some finding the menu somewhat limited. The bar is a standout feature, known for its exceptional cocktails, inventive menu, and professional, friendly bartenders who create a welcoming atmosphere. The Sunday brunch is particularly popular and highly recommended, offering a diverse and high-quality buffet selection. Room service is available, providing a limited but good quality menu.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a key aspect of guest feedback, offering both advantages and considerations. It is conveniently situated within walking distance of the train station, making it ideal for travelers arriving by rail. Public transportation is easily accessible, with a short walk to the tram and bus stops directly outside, providing good connections to the wider city. However, reaching the city center typically involves a 20 to 30-minute walk, which some guests found a bit far, especially when navigating through what they described as less appealing or industrial parts of the surrounding area, particularly at night. While some felt safe, others expressed discomfort with the neighborhood's atmosphere in the evenings. Underground parking is available nearby, offering convenience for those traveling by car, though it comes at an additional cost.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, professionalism, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, from the moment of check-in to departure. The quick check-in process is often mentioned positively, and staff are noted for their responsiveness to guest requests, such as providing an iron or extra amenities. The bar staff are particularly commended for their expertise in crafting excellent cocktails and their engaging demeanor. Similarly, the spa staff are lauded for their competence and the quality of their services, including massages. Overall, the team's commitment to providing a welcoming and efficient experience is a recurring theme in guest reviews, making a significant positive impact on the stay.

Additional Information
The hotel's unique concept as a former scientific building, with its zoology and geology themes, is a distinctive feature that guests appreciate. It maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals. Guests should be aware that a deposit is typically taken upon check-in, which some found surprising as it was not always clearly communicated beforehand. While the spa is a valued amenity, advance spa booking is often necessary due to limited capacity, and spontaneous access can be challenging. A recurring point of feedback is the absence of an in-room fridge, which some guests missed for storing beverages or snacks. Additionally, some rooms may experience nearby school noise during weekdays, which could impact those seeking absolute quiet during the day. The hotel does not feature a swimming pool, which some guests noted as a missing amenity.