Unbelievable Sarlat Stay: Naad Hotel's Centre Ville Charm!
Unbelievable Sarlat Stay: Naad Hotel's Centre Ville Charm! - A Review That's Definitely NOT AI-Generated (Trust Me)
Okay, so you're looking for a hotel in Sarlat. You've probably already googled "Sarlat hotel" a million times. Well, listen up, because I just got back from the Naad Hotel in the Centre Ville, and I have some opinions. Prepare yourselves, because this won't be a generic, cookie-cutter TripAdvisor review. This is the REAL DEAL.
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First Impressions & the "Accessibility" Rollercoaster:
Right, first things first: Accessibility. This is important, and I'm going to get into it. They say it's accessible, and, well, it's complicated. The entrance itself seemed okay – ramped, not too steep – and the elevator worked (a HUGE plus, because I'm not exactly a marathon runner these days). But navigating the hallways… hoo boy. Some felt REALLY tight, like I needed a tiny suitcase to squeeze through. And while they do have rooms designed for accessibility, I didn't get one. My room, though charming, was definitely NOT designed with wheelchairs in mind. It's a bit of a mixed bag, folks. They TRY. And the staff… they’re SO incredibly lovely and helpful, they'd bend over backwards if you really needed it. But the physical space? Needs a little tweaking, honestly.
Rant Alert: Oh, and the parking! It's free on-site, which is amazing in Sarlat, a city notorious for its parking challenges. But, let me tell you, finding a spot can be a competitive sport. I circled for a solid 20 minutes one evening. You've been warned! But, once you park, it feels heavenly. Less heavenly if the parking is a few blocks from the entrance.
The Room: My Little Corner of Dordogne Delight:
My room… oh, my room! Now, this is where the Naad Hotel truly shines. I had a non-smoking room (thank goodness!) with air conditioning (essential for summer in the Dordogne!), and thank heavens for the blackout curtains – I slept like a baby. The bed? Divine. The linens were crisp, fresh, and smelled amazing. I'm talking, I had a serious moment just laying there, basking in the glorious comfort. There was a desk, a mirror (essential!), a hair dryer (thank you, hotel gods!), a coffee/tea maker (lifesaver!), and even a little refrigerator. They even have a little safe box and a pretty decent sized closet. Everything was spotless, and, let me tell you, daily housekeeping is a gift from the heavens.
Let me pause for a second and say how much I appreciate the effort to make a comfortable space. All the basics were covered.
The Wi-Fi Saga: Bless the Free Wi-Fi Gods!
Okay, important for staying connected: the Wi-Fi! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!. Bless them. It worked pretty darn well, too, which is a MAJOR win for me. I needed it to stay connected to the outside world (and to stream far too much Netflix). I just wish my internet was a bit faster. But I still was grateful.
Food, Glorious Food (and Drink!):
Now, for the important stuff: food! The Naad Hotel has a restaurant, and it's got a good reputation. I had breakfast [buffet] a couple of mornings – Western breakfast! – which was… okay. Nothing mind-blowing, but decent and it certainly got me through the morning. There are also restaurants scattered around the area, but the hotel’s restaurant (which is A la carte in restaurant) is your best bet. They offer vegetarian options (a must-have nowadays!), I didn't try it personally, but heard good things. They also offered Asian cuisine in restaurant, and international cuisine if you like what they offer. (It's rare to feel so at home!) They have a bar! The poolside bar is the most popular. I had a bottle of water there. I am so grateful for the water. They give you one. They have Coffee/tea in restaurant too. I think I felt like a queen. They even have desserts in restaurant! (I never got to try them though, so sad!). They also have a Happy hour!
The Relaxation Station: Pool, Spa, and Bliss?
Okay, this is where things get really good. The Naad Hotel boasts a swimming pool – Swimming pool [outdoor]! – and it's beautiful. It's not massive, but it's the perfect size for a refreshing dip after a day of sightseeing. And the best part? Pool with view. A STUNNING view. I could have stayed there all day (and sometimes did!).
Now, here's the thing: they have a Spa/sauna and Spa. I didn't get to experience them all this time, which is a massive regret, honestly. I heard amazing things about the massage and the Body scrub and Body wrap. Maybe next time. Foot bath and Steamroom were also available. And a Fitness center. I am a bit sad I missed out on the spa!
Cleanliness & Safety: A Safe Haven:
In these crazy times, cleanliness is EVERYTHING. And the Naad Hotel really delivers the goods. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, and the staff Staff trained in safety protocol. My room was Rooms sanitized between stays, and it absolutely showed. They even have Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They also offer the Safe dining setup. They have Individually-wrapped food options. I felt safe and well-cared-for. They have a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit.
Of course, they also have the Safety/security feature! They also have Fire extinguisher and Smoke alarms. CCTV in common areas is there. They even have Security [24-hour]. I was impressed
The Little Extras and the Quirks:
- Pets: They do not allow them in the room. But the staff seemed to love dogs and cats.
- They have a Gift/souvenir shop. I picked up a postcard.
- Cashless payment service is available.
- They have Luggage storage, which is fantastic if you're early or late.
- Doorman. The staff is simply amazing.
- Elevator makes things much easier.
- They have a Terrace!
Things to Do (and Where to Do Them):
Sarlat itself is a gem. Walking around the old town, with its gorgeous medieval architecture, is a must. The Naad Hotel is in a perfect location for exploring. The Concierge at the hotel can give you great tips.
The Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely. Despite the parking challenges and the accessibility quirks, the Naad Hotel offers an exceptional experience. The charm, the location, the staff, and the pool make it truly special. It's not perfect (what is?), but it's close. I'm already dreaming of my next visit!
Final Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars. A solid choice for your Sarlat adventure. Just be prepared to circle the parking lot a few times!
Escape to Paradise: Phaidon Hotel & Spa, Florina, Greece – Your Dream Getaway Awaits
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive into the glorious, messy, and utterly unpredictable world of my recent trip to Sarlat-la-Caneda, at least as it tried to unfold from the haven that is the Naad Hotel. Honestly, thinking about it already makes my stomach do a happy little jig. And maybe a tiny, panicked flutter – the joy of travel!
Day 1: Arrival – And the Quest for the Perfect Crêpe
Morning (Or, Let's Be Real, Early Afternoon): Landed in Brive-la-Gaillarde (a mouthful! Though, I'm already loving the French names). The flight was… an experience. Let's just say the man in front of me snored loud enough to wake the dead, and the peanuts were stale. But hey, we made it! Taxi to Naad Hotel. Honestly, the cobbled streets of Sarlat initially look like they were designed by someone actively trying to trip you. The hotel itself… chef’s kiss. A total charmer! Quaint doesn't even begin to do it justice. The lobby smells of old books and… something vaguely floral, like the ghosts of a thousand lavender fields. Checked in, slightly frazzled, and immediately collapsed onto the ridiculously comfortable bed, and almost instantly forgot how long it had taken to reach this point.
Afternoon (After the Nap): Okay, the mission: find the perfect crêpe. I’d heard legends, whispered in hushed tones by travel bloggers. Armed with Google Maps and a naive optimism (and a rumbling stomach), I set off. First place? Closed. Second place? Smelly. Third place? More like a sad little pancake. Defeated and slightly hangry. I almost succumbed to a baguette (tempting!), but then… BOOM. I stumbled upon a tiny crêperie tucked away on a side street, Le Petit Bistrot (let's be real, it was the only bistro). The smell of butter and sugar was intoxicating. My first bite of the "Suzette" crêpe (orange, butter, sugar), and I swear, fireworks. The entire journey was worth it just for this one experience. This tiny little bite of heaven solidified the entire vacation, and I knew I'd have to go back for more.
Evening: Wandered the medieval streets, utterly lost in the beauty. Seriously, the architecture is like stepping into a fairytale. I almost walked right into some knight's armor. A charming lady at the restaurant, where I had my first proper meal, gave me a wink and told me, "Welcome to Sarlat, where time stands still… and the food is glorious”. A simple but rich meal of roasted duck (Canard à la Sarladaise) with potatoes fried with garlic, and a glass of regional wine. Bliss. Ended the evening, feeling like I was a character in a romance novel.
Day 2: Market Mayhem and Castle Dreams
- Morning: The Sarlat market! Right in the heart of town. I mean, I thought I knew markets. I was so wrong. The vibrant colors, the chatter, the smells of cheese so pungent it could curdle milk… it was sensory overload in the best possible way. I bought way too much cheese (I may or may not have smuggled some back home…) and some local honey. I wanted a beret, I felt compelled. Even bought a small gift for my friend.
- Afternoon: I'd been planning a trip to the Château de Castelnaud. However, I got distracted. I wandered through the market, getting lost in the maze of produce, local crafts, and cheeses (seriously, the cheese). Suddenly, as I turned the corner, I saw a man selling small paintings down an alley-way. The paintings were the most amazing I've ever seen. The man seemed to be an artist's local, as he knew all the local places to take in the local sights. I spent two hours talking to him about local haunts, the best places to grab a bite, and got the most amazingly detailed story of the history of the town.
- Evening: The hotel. I think I should stay in the hotel a bit more. What a lovely spot. The place is just fantastic, especially with a good book. A bit of wine, a bit to eat, a bit to think, and the day is over.
Day 3: Exploring the Beauty: The Dordogne, the river. The caves.
- Morning: Finally made it to the Château de Castelnaud. Oh. My. God. The views! Absolutely breathtaking. Imagine a castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River… Seriously, book a trip!
- Afternoon: The Caves of Lascaux. I was worried I'd be bored, but the prehistoric cave paintings blew my mind. To actually see art that old? It's humbling. I felt insignificant, but in a good way.
- Evening: Dinner on the river. I hired a taxi to take me to a restaurant along the river. The restaurant's menu was filled with local delicacies.
Day 4: Leaving
- Morning: Woke up late. I had to leave. Said my sad goodbyes to the Naad Hotel. I had a final baguette and made a mental list of all the things I wanted to do on my return trip to Sarlat, France.
- Afternoon: Took a taxi back to the airport. Long flight.
Reflections:
Sarlat, you magnificent, chaotic, cheese-filled beauty. I came, I saw, I ate… and I fell head over heels. Would I do it all again? Absolutely. Would I change anything? Maybe pack more stretchy pants for all that cheese! But seriously, if you're looking for a place that will steal your heart and your appetite, then Sarlat, and the Naad Hotel, are waiting. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to find some more pictures to put on Instagram.
(P.S. - I still can't pronounce "Sarladaise" without sounding like a complete idiot. Don't judge.)
Pescara Paradise: Stunning Rooms & Ok Home Await!
Okay, spill the beans! Is Sarlat actually as ridiculously charming as everyone says? And is this Naad Hotel thing... worth it?
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to get real. Yes. Sarlat is, and I mean *is*, like something out of a fairytale. Cobblestone streets? Check. Honey-colored stone buildings? Check. A general feeling that you've stepped back in time… and into a scene from a romantic comedy, probably with a grumpy French chef and a ridiculously charming local baker? Double-check.
And the Naad Hotel? Ugh, that's where things get… complicated. It’s a bit like dating: you'll have moments where you’re head-over-heels, muttering sweet nothings, and then moments where you’re frantically texting your friend, asking if *this* is worth the drama. But overall... yeah. It’s worth it. The location alone, smack-dab in the middle of the "Centre Ville" (as the fancy-pants French like to say), saves you from endless parking nightmares and that whole "getting lost in the boonies" thing. That, and that sweet, sweet *vibe*.
The website photos always look perfect. What *actually* is the Naad Hotel like? Is it all Instagram filters and disappointment?
Okay, let's be real about hotel photos. They're *always* a little… embellished, right? That perfectly placed croissant, sunbeam glistening just so… Don't expect that level of perfection. Though, the Naad *definitely* has charm. Imagine a place that’s like your quirky aunt’s apartment – lived-in, a bit quirky, and full of character. Some rooms are indeed "charming" in a way that makes you want to live there forever (if only you could afford it). Others are… let's just say, the "cozy" kind where you might accidentally knock your elbow on a wall. I had one room I'm pretty sure was previously a medieval dungeon (jk... mostly). But you know what? It was still kind of awesome. It's not sterile, it's not cold, and that, in itself, is a good thing. It's… REAL.
Booking? Easy peasy? Nightmare fuel? And how are the rooms, really?
Booking was… functional. Not a disaster, but not exactly a walk in the park either. Like, I wouldn't recommend trying to book at 3 AM after six glasses of wine (trust me on this). Best to do it when you're feeling patient. The usual booking websites are your friend.
Now, the rooms. Oh, the rooms. Okay, so the website promises "charming" and "historic." That translates to "possibly wonky plumbing" and "potentially a very loud church bell on the hour" in some cases. One time the shower pressure was… optimistic. Like, "maybe we'll get wet, maybe not" levels of optimism. But honestly? I didn't care. The windows opened onto a courtyard where I could almost *taste* the history. The bed? Surprisingly comfortable. I slept like a log, which is saying a lot when you're in a new place. And hey, the imperfections? They're part of the charm. It's not a soulless chain hotel, folks.
Are there any room *to really avoid*? Tell me the truth!
Honestly? I can't tell you *exactly* which rooms to avoid. I've been there a few times and it has been a roulette, but it depends on what you value. If you're a light sleeper, ask for a room away from the street or *especially* the church. The bells… oh sweet mercy, those bells. If you want space and a view, ask extra-specially for a room higher up. I'm also pretty sure some rooms may have been renovated more recently than others... so, luck of the draw. And, okay, I *did* have one room that smelled faintly of… something old. Think "grandma's attic plus a bit of dampness." I didn’t complain (because I’m basically a wimp), but maybe politely request a different room if you sense something similar. But even *that* wasn't a total dealbreaker. It was part of the *experience*, right? (That's what I told myself.)
Okay, so the "Centre Ville" thing is a big deal. Why does the Naad actually *do* it right on location?
Oh, the location is EVERYTHING. Seriously. You step outside, and bam, you're *in* Sarlat. You can practically roll out of bed, stumble down a few steps, and be face-to-face with medieval magic. Imagine this: your stomach is rumbling, you need coffee *immediately*, and instead of a 20-minute drive to the nearest cafe, you're literally two minutes from the most amazing bakery you've ever seen in your life. That's the Naad's superpower. You can wander aimlessly through the market, get ridiculously lost in the narrow streets (highly recommended), and pop back to the hotel to freshen up. It all makes Sarlat feel *accessible*. You're not just visiting, you're *living* it. It’s like Sarlat is your backyard and the Naad is your cozy little base camp.
What kind of things are right there? What are you actually *near*?
Alright, let's run down the hits! The central market, of course – a total assault on the senses in the best possible way. You've got truffle vendors (seriously, *truffles*), cheese mongers, all the *foie gras* your arteries can handle (moderation, people, moderation!), and enough pastries to make you gain five pounds in a day. Then there are the restaurants. *So many restaurants*. From Michelin-starred places to tiny bistros serving the most delicious duck confit you've ever tasted. Plus, the main square, the cathedral… everything is within a five-minute walk. You're also close to all the best shops (souvenirs, local crafts, artisan jams… my weak point). Basically, you're near everything delicious and charming. Be warned: your wallet will be lighter, but your soul will be *much* happier.
Is there breakfast? Because I need my breakfast. And what about the on-site bar?
Breakfast! Yes, there is usually breakfast. And yes, you should have it. It's not a Michelin-star-worthy affair, but it's got the essentials. Coffee (vital), a selection of pastries (crucial), bread, jams, maybe some yogurt and fruit. It's a good start to the day and a great way to fuel up for all that exploring. The pastries are *especially* important. I’m not gonna lie: I may have snuck a few extra croissants out of theSleep Stop Guide
