Le Grand Hotel des Thermes

The hotel dates back to the early 19th century, when it was constructed by Russian grand duchies, and the Belle Epoque style has remained through various renovations. Juliet balconies grace the facade, and a number of chimneys jut out of the dark roof. However, the property is unquestionably more grand from the outside than the inside, where, upon entering through a revolving glass door, it's a far more dated affair. Some artwork would be nice on the walls, and the preponderance of oak paneling, mirrored gold accents, and pink tiling feel retro in an underwhelming way. Classical and jazz music can be heard throughout the building. Still, this remains a popular choice along the Saint-Malo coast, in part because of the array of services on offer. Expect to see older couples passing through the hallways on their way o the spa or the beach. Also expect to see guests getting dressed up for dinner in the well-regarded restaurants, which are popular with locals and hotel guests alike. Visitors here come from a wide array of categories, and include everyone from families to couples and business travelers.

The hotel faces the sea along the Sillon Promenade, about a 10-minute drive to the center of Saint-Malo. There are several restaurants and bars lining the promenade, but the walk to the historic center of town takes takes almost 30 minutes, which will be too much for most travelers. Saint-Malo train station is a few minutes farther. Those looking to explore the Brittany region will need a car. Dinard is just across the channel from the old town -- about 20 minutes away -- while it's about an hour's drive to Rennes and two hours to Carnac. Saint-Malo Airport is about a 12-minute drive from the hotel, while Rennes Airport is about an hour's drive.

The 178 rooms at Le Grand Hotel des Thermes Marins de St-Malo vary quite a bit, and that's not always a pleasant thing. Some of the lower-category rooms are entirely outdated, with pastel fabrics and color schemes, oak-veneer furniture, and a good deal of wear. Other rooms are far more modern, and have a handsome mix of dark and light wood-veneer furniture with clean lines plus vibrant pops of color against a neutral background of tan, brown, and white. These rooms include bold upholstered headboards over beds made with white linens, though some extra pillows would have been nice for a hotel of this caliber. 

All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. Some rooms have fantastic beach views, and a few have large bay windows and elegant sitting areas. Some rooms do look out on a lower roof of the building, which is old and dirty. Suites are incredibly spacious, and include a combination of antique-style chairs, benches, nightstands, and tables. Although the suites are spacious, the bedroom and living area are one and the same, with a sofa bed and lounge tucked into the corner of the large room with the television positioned between the two. Bathrooms are large, and most have shower/tub combos. Bathrooms in more modern rooms have sharp white marble tiling and generous vanity space around the sinks. The hotel provides it's own brand of spa toiletries. 

This classic hotel packs in a lot of quality amenities, which helps to keep it a popular choice in the Saint-Malo beachfront area despite its uneven style. The hotel’s two restaurants are run by renowned area chefs, and the restaurants are frequented by local residents as well as hotel guests. Dishes are exercises in traditional French cuisine, with plenty of seafood as well as prix fixe menus. Le Cap Horn, with a greenhouse-like glass exterior, offers views of the beach, while Le Verriere has white columns resembling trees, green floral-print carpeting, and crystal chandeliers. Both venues make for an elegant dining experience. The bar -- La Passerelle -- is classy, with low lounge chairs and tables, and a piano -- there's occasionally live music in the evening. Breakfast, which is only included is some room packages, is a buffet of fresh pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, and cheeses. Room service is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

The spa is large, and includes rooms for hydrotherapy and specialized massages, and others for manicures and pedicures. An enormous solarium with lounge chairs facing a wall-size window offers views of the beach. A fitness center and yoga room are adjacent, and guests can find a variety of weights and cardio equipment. There's an indoor heated seawater pool, and the on-site boutique sells the hotel’s own cosmetic brand and a selection of designer clothing and jewelry. 

Somewhat surprising for a spa hotel, the Le Grand has a colorful children’s area full of toys of all shapes and sizes. This is where the kids' club is headquartered, which functions like a daycare center for infants and young children. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property and there is private on-site parking, which is sometimes subject to a fee.