The Originals City, Hôtel Otelinn, Caen (Inter-Hotel)

This hotel is particularly noted for its indoor swimming pool, a rare and appreciated amenity that offers a relaxing escape for guests. Its convenient location near the Caen Memorial makes it an excellent base for sightseers and history enthusiasts exploring the D-Day beaches and Normandy. Business travelers also find it suitable for short stays due to its practical amenities and easy access to the ring road. The hotel consistently receives high praise for its friendly and helpful staff and the quality of its restaurant food. While rooms can be compact, the comfortable beds are a highlight. For an enhanced experience, guests might consider requesting a room on a higher floor to minimize potential noise, and taking advantage of the on-site dining for good value meals.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's indoor swimming pool is a significant draw, often highlighted for being heated and a welcome feature, though some guests note its location requires crossing the restaurant area. Free Wi-Fi is available, though some reviews mention inconsistent speed or connection issues. Ample free parking is consistently praised, with some underground options for motorcycles. The reception desk operates 24/7, providing convenience. While a bar is present, the selection of draft beer can be limited. Some guests noted the absence of an elevator, which could be a concern for those with mobility issues. Overall, the public areas are described as bright and pleasant, contrasting with some of the more dated room interiors.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean, though some older sections show signs of wear. The beds are frequently praised for being very comfortable, often described as large and providing a restful sleep with quality bedding. However, room size is a recurring point, with many guests finding them small, tiny, or confined, especially when an extra bed is added. Bathrooms are often noted for their size, with some featuring walk-in showers or bathtubs, but a common complaint is the ineffective placement of shower screens, leading to wet floors. Noise can be an issue, with reports of road noise, corridor noise, and slamming doors due to thin insulation. Basic amenities like a kettle, coffee/tea making facilities, fridge, or safe are often absent.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant receives widespread acclaim for its excellent food quality and good value. Guests frequently praise the delicious and generous portions of the dinner menu, with specific mentions of dishes like mussels. The breakfast is generally considered good, offering a varied buffet with options like cold meats, cheeses, pastries, and hot chocolate, though some find it basic or composed of industrial products. Coffee machines can sometimes be problematic. While the restaurant is highly recommended, some guests noted it might be closed on weekends, which could impact dining plans. The bar is available for drinks, though its selection might be limited.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location for visitors interested in the Caen Memorial, being within easy walking distance, typically around 5 minutes. It offers convenient access to the highway and ring road, making it an ideal base for exploring the D-Day beaches and other Normandy sites by car. For those arriving by ferry, it's approximately 20 minutes from Ouistreham port. However, the hotel is situated in a commercial area and is quite a distance from the city center, requiring a car or public transport for access. While free parking is abundant and easy to find, the immediate surroundings offer limited dining or shopping options, with most establishments closing early.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness and welcoming demeanor, noting their willingness to assist with various requests, from Wi-Fi connections to calling taxis and providing local advice. The check-in process is described as quick and efficient. Many reviews commend the staff's ability to communicate effectively, with some members speaking excellent English, which is particularly appreciated by international guests. The overall impression is one of a dedicated team committed to providing a positive and accommodating experience for all visitors.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing renovations, with some areas like the reception, restaurant, and certain rooms already updated, offering a fresher appearance. However, other rooms and facilities, including the swimming pool, may still reflect an older, more dated decor. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their animals. Some guests noted that the designated smoking area is located near the main entrance. While the television channels are primarily in French with no English subtitle options, the hotel is generally regarded as a budget-friendly option, offering good value for money, particularly for short stays or as a base for regional exploration.