Luxury Lyon Escape: Mercure Saxe Lafayette Hotel Review!
Luxury Lyon Escape: My Chaotic Confessions from the Mercure Saxe Lafayette Hotel! (Spoiler Alert: It’s Pretty Damn Good)
Okay, so picture this: me, fresh off a train from… well, let’s just say somewhere that involved a near-miss with a rogue croissant (long story). I arrive in Lyon, utterly desperate for a good night's sleep and maybe, just maybe, a sliver of luxury. Enter the Mercure Saxe Lafayette Hotel. "Luxury Lyon Escape," the website promised. Could it deliver after my croissant trauma? Let's dive in, shall we? Because, honestly, travel reviews are way too polished these days. Let's get real, people!
First Impressions & Accessibility - The Good, The Wobbly, and That Damn Elevator
Right, so the exterior…it's classic Lyon, charmingly so. But let’s get to the stuff that matters. Accessibility: Crucially, the hotel lists Facilities for Disabled Guests. That’s a massive plus right out of the gate. The doors are automatically opening, which is a beautiful touch. The Elevator, bless its heart, did its job. It wasn’t the fastest, but hey, I'm not running a marathon. Wheelchair accessible is a critical factor for many of us. And the hotel is in a nice, central location, so getting around is relatively easy.
Internet? Did My Email Survive?
Internet Access is a must-have. In the age of digital nomadism and wanting to post that perfect Instagram shot, you NEED it to work. Luckily, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes, you read that right. And it actually works! My emails got through, my work did, and I could even binge-watch some trashy reality TV. Internet [LAN] and Internet services were also available. So, basically, covered. Wi-Fi in public areas was also strong.
The Room: My Sanctuary (and Where I Lost My Slippers)
Okay, the rooms! Honestly, I was expecting something… sterile. But the room decorations were surprisingly tasteful and comfortable. My room had Air conditioning (essential in the Lyon summer!), Blackout curtains (saviors of the sleep-deprived!), and an Extra long bed (hallelujah!). There's a desk if you need to work, and a Seating area perfect for collapsing in after a day of exploring. The mini bar was stocked, and there was Free bottled water – a small touch, but it makes a difference. The bathroom was clean. The shower was hot and the Towels were fluffy and clean. There was a Hair dryer, a Mirror, and a Toiletries. A few more details :There was also a Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Ironing facilities.
Now, about the slippers. Where did they go? I blame the jet lag. They were probably in the very back of the closet. Don’t judge.
Cleanliness and Safety: Is It a Germ-Free Zone? (Almost)
This is where the Mercure really shines, especially post-pandemic. Cleanliness and safety were clearly a priority. They're using Anti-viral cleaning products and have Daily disinfection in common areas. Plus, they had Hand sanitizer everywhere. The staff were all super friendly and seemed genuinely concerned with maintaining a safe environment. Staff trained in safety protocol, and the hotel had Smoke alarms, Fire extinguisher and seemed to have CCTV in common areas but not a ton to make it look big brother-ish. Rooms sanitized between stays, and they offered Room sanitization opt-out available, depending on your preference. The safe deposit boxes were good to have. They also had First aid kit.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry (Or Hangry): The Dining Scene
Alright, let's talk food! This is where my inner food critic comes alive. The Breakfast [buffet] was decent (though the pastries could have been slightly fresher – I’m a croissant snob, remember?). They had Asian breakfast and Western breakfast options. There was Coffee/tea in restaurant and there are also Restaurants and a Snack bar. I did not experience the A la carte in restaurant or the Buffet in restaurant. They had a Bar so it's perfect for a quick drink or snacks. They even had a Poolside bar!
I'll be honest, I'm not a big fan of Salad in restaurant.
One minor gripe: While the Bottle of water was a nice touch in the room, I wish they offered more readily available water refills. Gotta stay hydrated!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Days and City Views (Hopefully!)
Okay, this is the good stuff! The Mercure Saxe Lafayette says it has a Pool with view, a Fitness center, and a Spa/sauna! (I didn't use any of these!)
Services and Conveniences: From Laundry to Luggage Storage
The hotel offers a range of Services and conveniences. There's Daily housekeeping (a lifesaver!), Laundry service, and Dry cleaning. The Doorman was very friendly and helpful. Concierge very helpful. The Air conditioning in public area made a huge difference! There’s also Luggage storage, and a Cash withdrawal machine. They also have a currency exchange.
For the Kids & Other Niceties
I didn't have kids with me, but the hotel mentions Family/child friendly and they offer Babysitting service & Kids meal. They also are a Hotel chain for the benefits.
Getting Around: Airports and Automobiles
The hotel offers Airport transfer (helpful after that Croissant Incident!), Car park [on-site] (always a plus!), and Taxi service. They even have a Car power charging station, which is great for the eco-conscious traveler. Bicycle parking is available, too.
My Honest Verdict & A Compelling Offer (Because You Deserve a Lyon Escape!)
Look, the Mercure Saxe Lafayette isn't perfect. No hotel is. But it's a solid, reliable option in Lyon that manages to be both functional and stylish. The location is fantastic, the staff are friendly, and the safety precautions are reassuring. Plus, those blackout curtains are a gift from the sleep gods. Seriously.
So, here's my pitch (and a bit of a confession):
Book your "Lyon Escape" at the Mercure Saxe Lafayette NOW! You deserve it. After my near-death croissant experience, this hotel was my savior. Book now and you'll enjoy:
- Guaranteed Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your adventures (and your croissant battles, should you have any).
- Unbeatable Location: Explore Lyon's culinary delights, historical sites, and charming streets with ease!
- Comfortable, Clean & Safe Rooms: Retreat to your oasis after a day of exploring and rest easy knowing that cleanliness and safety are a top priority.
- (Maybe) A Peaceful Night's Sleep: Thanks to those glorious blackout curtains.
- (Probably) A Good Breakfast: Even if the pastries aren't perfect.
- And the peace of mind of knowing you're in a hotel that genuinely cares about its guests!
Click here to book your Lyon Escape and GET AWAY! Don’t wait – your adventure (and your sanity) awaits!
(P.S. If you find my missing slippers, please let them know.)
Unbelievable Salt Key House: Romania's Hidden Praid Paradise!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're not just planning a trip to Lyon, France, we're living it. And let's be honest, I'm pretty sure my organisation skills peaked in third grade when I successfully color-coded my Trapper Keeper. So, here's what I've got, with the understanding that this is more of a suggestion box than a rigid itinerary. Subject to change, influenced by croissants, and definitely fueled by copious amounts of coffee. This is my Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette Hotel Lyon adventure, warts and all.
Pre-Trip Panic - aka "The Packing Debacle" (Happening Now/Yesterday/Last Week… who can remember?)
- The Goal: Get to Lyon, alive, with semi-decent clothes.
- Reality: My suitcase looks like a toddler attacked a thrift store. Also, still haven’t learned how to pack light. Seriously, why are shoes so heavy?! And do I really need eight pairs of socks? (The answer, for the record, is always yes.)
- Emotional State: Mildly panicked. Very excited. Secretly hoping my passport isn’t expired.
Day 1: Arrival, Awkward French, and the Quest for Croissants
Time: 8:00 AM (ish) - Flight from wherever-I'm-coming-from arrives in Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport. Pray for smooth customs! (Last time in France I set off a metal detector – a suspicious amount of hairspray, apparently.)
Transportation: Rhoneexpress train to Lyon city center, then navigate the joys of the Lyon Metro (wish me luck remembering which side of the escalator to stand on – it’s a recurring failure.)
Action: Check into Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette. Okay, first impressions are key. Hoping for a decent view, maybe a comfy bed. Fingers crossed it's not the 'room with the questionable stains on the carpet' type situation. After a good nights sleep, begin the epic quest for the perfect Lyon croissant. This is not a joke.
Quirk/Anecdote: My French is… well, let's say it’s heavily reliant on hand gestures and sheer willpower. I'm pretty sure I once accidentally ordered a live chicken instead of a baguette. Note to self: practice "Bonjour," "Merci," and "Where is the nearest pastry shop?" repeatedly.
Emotional Reaction: Pure, unadulterated joy at the prospect of actual pastries and perhaps, just perhaps, the smell of fresh bread. Slight apprehension about the metro.
Time: 10:00 AM - The Croissant Hunt Begins!
- Action: Wander the streets near the hotel - aim to find the perfect bakery. Research indicates plenty of potential options, but this will require multiple tastings! It's a scientific endeavor, really.
- Quirk/Anecdote: I'm convinced that croissants in France possess a sort of gravitational pull. Everywhere I go, my eyes seek them out. I'm half-expecting to be levitated towards the nearest bakery.
- Emotional Reaction: Utter bliss at the thought of each bite. A slight panic in the back of my mind about how quickly I'll be eating said croissant.
Time: 12:00 PM - Lunch at a Bouchon (Traditional Lyonnaise Restaurant)
- Action: Locate a charming Bouchon and attempt to order something other than "Um, the one that's mostly meat, please?" Possibly a salad for some semblance of balance.
- Quirk/Anecdote: Bouchons are famously cozy and often a little… boisterous. I envision myself attempting to eat tripe (a Lyonnaise specialty) and either loving it or gagging dramatically. Either way, it’s an experience!
- Emotional Reaction: A nervous excitement. This is real French cuisine and, honestly, a bit intimidating. But also, the idea of a hearty meal in a traditional setting makes my heart flutter.
Time: 2:00 PM - Exploring Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
- Action: Wander through the charming, cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Get lost in the traboules, the hidden passageways that connect buildings (and inevitably, get hopelessly lost).
- Quirk/Anecdote: I have a terrible sense of direction. I'm fully expecting to end up in a completely different city by the end of the day. But hey, adventure, right?!
- Emotional Reaction: Awe at the beauty of the architecture. The feeling of stepping back in time. The joy of getting horribly lost but secretly loving it.
Time: 5:00 PM - Stroll along the Rhône or Saône River
- Action: Find a nice riverside view and soak it all in, the views, the water. Maybe grab a coffee and a cheeky little pastry.
- Quirk/Anecdote: Wondering if the river's safe enough to swim? Not sure. I'll probably end up falling in anyway.
- Emotional Reaction: Pure bliss and tranquility. Remembering to breathe and appreciate the moment.
Time: 7:00 PM - Dinner and Drinks - and perhaps starting to get used to all this!
- Action: Find a cozy restaurant and celebrate a successful first day! Try another delicious meal.
- Quirk/Anecdote: Trying to learn the art of French wine, but I'm pretty sure I won't succeed! Oh well!
- Emotional Reaction: Satisfaction, happiness for the day. Appreciating the beauty of Lyon.
Day 2: Food Markets, the Silk Road, and My Existential Crisis over Cheese (Maybe)
Time: 9:00 AM - Breakfast (hopefully more croissants!) at a local cafe. Fuel up for a day of utter hedonism.
Action: Head to Les Halles Paul Bocuse, the legendary food market. Prepare to be overwhelmed (in a GOOD way).
Quirk/Anecdote: My biggest fear at Les Halles? Drooling on the cheese. My second biggest fear? Not buying enough cheese. This is my Everest.
Emotional Reaction: Overwhelmed by the sights, smells, and possibilities. A deep, visceral need to buy everything. This is where the trip gets serious.
Time: 11:00 AM - Cheese, glorious cheese!
- Action: Spend an hour (or three) at a fromagerie. Sample everything. Ask ridiculous questions. Be prepared to fall in love.
- Quirk/Anecdote: I am convinced that cheese is a gateway drug to happiness. The goal here is to find the perfect cheese for a picnic later, and to maybe, just maybe, learn the names of all the delicious varieties (challenging).
- Emotional Reaction: Intense joy. A sense of pure, unadulterated greed. A slight fear of being judged for my cheese obsession.
Time: 1:00 PM - Picnic in Parc de la Tête d'Or
- Action: Find a picturesque spot in the park. Unleash the cheese, the bread, the maybe-some-fruit-because-I-should-eat-something-healthy. People watch.
- Quirk/Anecdote: I am a terrible picnic planner. I will probably forget something crucial (napkins, cutlery, a bottle opener…). I will almost certainly spill red wine on my favorite shirt.
- Emotional Reaction: Pure, lazy contentment. The joy of sunshine, good food, and pretending to be a sophisticated European.
Time: 3:00 PM - A Touch of Culture - The Musée des Beaux-Arts
- Action: Walk it all off at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, one of France's largest art museums. Marvel at art. Pretend to understand art. Get distracted by the beautiful building itself.
- Quirk/Anecdote: I have the artistic appreciation of a particularly enthusiastic toddler. I like what I like, and I am not afraid to admit it. Probably wander off and get lost in the gardens.
- Emotional Reaction: Awe, slightly embarrassed, but still feeling fancy.
Time: 5:00 PM - Silk and Traboules (again!):
- Action: Explore the silk-weaving district of Croix-Rousse, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the traboules again (if I can remember how to get back to them)
- Quirk/Anecdote: Thinking I might accidentally buy a silk scarf I don't need, because… well, silk scarves.
- Emotional Reaction: The same awe as earlier, I'm definitely now a fan.
Time: 7:00 PM - Dinner - A Decision, a Dilemma, and more food
- Action:
Luxury Lyon Escape: Mercure Saxe Lafayette Hotel Review! - Because Let's Face It, Lyon Isn't Just About Sausage (Though, Yum.)
Okay, Spill the Beans. Is This Mercure Really "Luxury"? My Credit Card is Already Crying.
"Luxury"? Let’s just say it's a *Mercure*. I mean, it's not the Ritz, people. My expectations were… tempered. I envisioned fluffy towels and free champagne. I got… decent towels and I had to *buy* my own champagne. (Side note: French champagne is expensive. My credit card wept silently.) The lobby *looked* fancy, all shiny marble and dimly-lit corners where you half-expected a secret passage to a wine cellar. Spoiler alert: no wine cellar. Just more seating. Decent seating, mind you. Very comfortable for people-watching.
The room itself? Clean. Modern. A little… beige. Like a freshly baked baguette, but without the, you know, deliciousness. Don't get me wrong, it was perfectly acceptable! It had a *bed* and, crucially, a *shower* that actually worked. That's a win in my book. But "luxury"? More like “comfortably appointed, very clean, a *Mercure.*" Don't spend your life savings on this place. Unless you *love* beige.
The Location? Tell me it's not in some industrial wasteland.
Nope! Not a wasteland. Phew. It's in a pretty decent spot, actually! The Saxe-Gambetta area. Lots of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Honestly, the location was probably the *best* thing about the whole experience. You could practically *stumble* (after a few glasses of Beaujolais, mind you) into so many places. I mean, I *did* stumble. Several times.
There's also a metro station right there, which is a lifesaver because, let me tell you, Lyon's cobblestone streets and heels do *not* get along. My ankles are still recovering. Pro tip: Pack flats. And learn a few key French phrases. "Excusez-moi, je suis complètement perdue" (Excuse me, I'm completely lost) works *wonders*. (Especially if you look genuinely confused, which I did. Constantly.)
Breakfast! Tell me all about the breakfast! Was it croissant heaven? Or croissant hell?
Ah, breakfast. The most important meal of the day! And, alas… this is where things got a little… *meh*. It wasn't croissant *hell*, thankfully. The croissants were edible. Decent, even. But they were *not* the melt-in-your-mouth, butter-exploding-in-your-face croissants of my dreams.
It was a standard buffet. You know the drill: scrambled eggs (suspect consistency), bacon (a little limp), fruit (mostly melon), yogurt, cereal, and, of course, the aforementioned croissants and pastries. I did find a tiny jar of honey that tasted like pure sunshine, so I’m calling that a win. But, honestly, if you're a breakfast snob like me (and by "snob" I mean "lover of all things breakfast"), I'd strongly suggest venturing out. There are *so many* amazing patisseries and boulangeries in Lyon. Skip the hotel breakfast and go for the real deal. Thank me later and go *get* your pastries.
Did you, um, use the gym? (Be honest.)
Okay, so the gym. This is where I have to be brutally honest. I *intended* to use the gym. I packed my workout clothes. I even mentally rehearsed my post-workout glow. But I never actually *went*.
Let's just say Lyon has a *lot* of distractions. Like, a *lot*. Delicious food, amazing wine, beautiful architecture… the gym just didn't make the cut. I opted for "walking around Lyon and pretending I’m not out of breath from climbing the stairs" instead. My fitness plan was basically: "Eat all the cheese. Walk a bit. Repeat."
In short: no, I did not use the gym. I'm blaming the pain au chocolat. And the Beaujolais.
The Staff? Friendly? Snobby? (The truth, please!)
The staff were… fine. Perfectly polite, mostly efficient. Not overly enthusiastic, but hey, I'm not sure I'd be either, being at the front desk all day. They got the job done. They spoke English (thank goodness!), handled my fumbling attempts at French with admirable patience.
One minor *faux pas* I had: I, in my jet-lagged haze, accidentally set off the fire alarm at 3 AM. (Don't ask. I'll just say it involved a rogue hairdryer and a moment of extreme clumsiness). The staff were, surprisingly, very calm, even after my mortified apologies. That probably deserves some bonus points. So, yeah, the staff were good. But don’t expect them to join you for a celebratory Beaujolais. They’re probably busy, you know, working.
Any major complaints? Anything that seriously bugged you?
Okay, here's the rant. One small, annoying thing: the room's lighting. So dim! It was like living in a perpetual twilight zone. I'm not sure if it was supposed to be "ambiance" or just cost-cutting on lightbulbs, but I could barely see to apply my makeup. (Okay, maybe that's a personal problem. But still!) It made my morning routine a frustrating guessing game of "Am I wearing too much blush? Not enough?" And when I tried to read in bed, I needed a flashlight.
Seriously, I'm not asking for the sun. Just... a *lamp* that works. Oh, and the elevator was a bit slow. And the Wi-Fi cut out in the bathroom. And... I'm starting to sound like a complainer. But hey, I'm just being honest!
Would you recommend the Mercure Saxe Lafayette?
It's… complicated. Look, if you're looking for a clean, comfortable, well-located hotel in Lyon and you’re not particularly fazed by beige decor and slightly sub-par croissants, then sure, go for it. It's perfectly *fine*.
But if you truly want *luxury*? If you're dreaming of fluffy robes and a breathtaking view and a breakfast buffet that makes you weep tears of joy? Then maybe keep looking. Lyon has some truly spectacular hotels. (Although, they'll probably cost twice as much.)
For me? I'd probably stay there again. Because Lyon is Lyon, and the location is convenient, and sometimes "fine” is good *enough*. Plus, I have a feeling my credit card needs a break. The best experience of this hotel was the location for discovering Lyon. And that champagne IStarlight Inns
