Hotel Nord-Pinus in Arles
#1
Original Poster
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Hotel Nord-Pinus in Arles
Ok. We have reservations here this September. Everything that I read prior to making a reservation was positive. Since making the reservation, I have talked to a few people in person and on-line about this hotel. Good or bad, this place seems to evoke strong reactions. Those who had a bad experience relay their experience with surprising vitriol. Those who had good experiences seem to really love it. I am looking for as many additional opinions as possible before I finally decide whether to cancel and go somewhere else! Thanks.
#3
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 129
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I had a reservation there last summer and changed to Le Calendal because the price was better. I am really glad I didn't stay at the Pinus Nord. It is on very busy square so if you do stay there take the advice of the cigalechanta and ask for a room on the other side. I did go to eat there one evening and just felt their staff was almost arrogant. One of the few times in many trips to France where I've experienced the stereotype people always assume about french waiters. Finally though I gave more then 2 months notice of cancelling my reservation and had confirmation from them that there would be no charge, the charged me for one night anyway. Later when I wrote to complain, they said they would mail a refund but I never received one. By contrast, the Le Calendal was much less expensive, has lovely, rooms w/A/C and has a beautiful courtyard for breakfast, tea, wine. Their staff was exceptional and I would go back in a heartbeat. I had a room with a large balcony that had cushioned chaises, a small bedroom but a bathroom I could have held in ball in for $70! Sorry so long winded but you're right, the Pinus Nord does evoke strong reactions!
#4


Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 43,742
Likes: 4
McBetsy, you were wise. We met a couple from Nimes in a bookstore and they started a conversation. We had a drink with them and during the conversation, they told us to check out the Calendal.
So the next day we had lunch there on the terrace and decided, next time if we stayed in Arles it would be the Calendal but now we know we decided, we prefer the small villages.
So the next day we had lunch there on the terrace and decided, next time if we stayed in Arles it would be the Calendal but now we know we decided, we prefer the small villages.
#7
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Recently returned from Arles (amongst other places, was tempted to stay at Nord Pinus but ended up selecting the Jules Cesar). The Nord Pinus looks like a nice hotel. I definitely echo the feedback regarding the possible difficulty in driving to the hotel and the potential noise level. The square that the hotel is situate on is charming, but very busy. Although once you park, you won't need your car to explore Arles (which is a lovely town).




