Best Western Hôtel Le Donjon

The Best Western Hotel Le Donjon is in the heart of Carcassonne's historic walled city, and well-restored original features date back to the 12th century. It's divided into three buildings, with the main "Le Donjon" housing the hotel's reception, bar, and restaurant -- meaning guests may have to walk to these offerings. The exterior's rustic stone walls with lanterns and climbing plants around blue-shuttered windows are atmospheric, as are peaceful garden areas with dining terraces, stone paths, and ivy-covered walls. Interiors are similarly lovely, featuring medieval wall tapestries, wood-beamed ceilings, red walls with armor and gilded Renaissance art, and antique furniture. The bar is manned by front desk staff, which can lead to some unwanted waiting by guests. Guests are primarily couples on vacation, attracted to the reasonable rates and historic city setting.

The hotel's location is fantastic, situated right in the historic walled city of Carcassonne. The 12th-century Comtal Chateau is just a one-minute walk from the hotel, while the Basilique Saint Nazaire is just one minute farther. The surrounding pedestrian streets are beautiful, and lined with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. Carcassonne Cathedral, the main Place Carnot square -- with small coffee shops that are great for people watching -- and authentic artisan stores selling local goods (La Ferme Fromagerie is a favorite) are within 20-minute walks. Musee des Beaux Arts is a 15-minute walk. Carcassonne Train Station is a 30-minute walk (or shorter taxi ride) from the hotel and trains from Paris, Marseilles, and other cities run to it. Carcassonne Airport is a 10-minute drive, while Castres-Mazamet Airport is an hour drive.

Traditionally decorated rooms are charming, albeit small, with lower-category rooms starting at a tiny 15 square meters (162 square feet). Design varies a bit between rooms, but guests can expect dark or white-painted wood furniture, carpeted floors, and green, gray, or pink accents in throw pillows and bedspreads. Entry-level Classic Rooms have large windows that mostly overlook the citadel or garden, although some have dull inner courtyard and wall views. Superior Rooms guarantee a garden or ramparts view, plus some have private terraces, and all Family Rooms have their own patio. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and electronic safes in wardrobes, plus air-conditioning and free bottled water. Decent-sized bathrooms have rainfall showers or shower/tub combos, as well as wall-dispensed toiletries and hairdryers. Guests should note thin walls means noise can be an issues, mostly for street-facing rooms.

Features are limited at this historic-center hotel, as there are no wellness facilities of any kind. The hotel does offer a buffet breakfast at a fee, served in a stone-walled dining room or in the outdoor garden during warmer months. Continental fare is accompanied by scrambled eggs, omelets, and sausages, and it receives mixed reviews for the price. Brasserie Donjon offers traditional French cuisine, as well as local cheeses and wines. Though far from the hotel and a bit pricey, private parking is available and the free shuttle takes care of transfers between the parking lot and the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout.