In reply to Jenny C:
We cater predominantly for cyclists but we have climbers and hikers staying with us either side of the cycling season. You made some good points, I think we cover most of these and a few others.
> (In reply to marathemge)
> Clean accommodation
Yep
> Comfy beds
Yep
> Free (safe) parking
Yep
> Powerful showers with plenty of hot water
Yep
> Kettle in room and generous supply of tea/coffee etc
Not in every room but there's always tea and coffee making stuff in the lounge. Lots of herbal teas etc.
> Full cooked breakfast
Well as I said it's mostly cyclists and we're in the South of France. I've never met a serious cyclists who wants bacon, sausage and egg before a ride. However if I was in Scotland catering for hikers - absolutely.
Brecky here is ace - cereal, fresh bread and croissants from the boulangerie EVERY DAY, bananas, fruit (different stuff when in season) Coffee, tea etc etc. We'll have a pan of porridge on the go on those cold spring mornings.
> The option of DIY toast/cereal if you need an early start
In summer we do early starts anyway so one of us is up doing breakfast - even if it's 5:30.
> Somewhere safe I can remove/store muddy boots and wet waterproofs, without making a mess of your carpets.
Yep and we offer free laundry service everyday.
> Free flask filling service at breakfast
Not really applicable but we would do if asked.
> Depending on what facilities are available locally, the option of a packed lunch.
Not really applicable but if cyclists are back before 3pm we do a light pasta meal, tea coffee and cake to keep you going until dinner.
> Adequate heating, but with thermostat control in bedroom as I can't sleep if I'm too hot.
N/A
> Curtains (or blinds) which fit the windows.
Shutters too.
> Daily printed update of MWIS forecast
Yep - essential.
> If nowhere local (within walking distance) to eat, option of booking an evening meal with you
Yes, just 24h notice for us to cook. We also do a free taxi service to town in the evenings on the days the village outlets are closed.
> Reasonably priced.
All this is 60 quid a day.
>
> Not bothered about shared common room, or TV
We have one just in case you want to socialise. There's a beer and wine fridge with honesty box.
>
> Not important to me but....
> Secure storage for skis/bikes
Alarmed garage for bikes inc workshop.
> Pickup service from train/bus station (cheaper than a taxi)
Yes - we have a minibus for this - much cheaper than taxis.
Also. Guided bike rides on most days. Quality hire bikes available.
Laminated maps for self guided rides and I have GPX files of our best rides to download to your Garmin.
E
www.veloventoux.com