6/10 Okay
Finola B.
13 Nov 2019
Liked: Check-in, location
Beautiful setting, compromised by issues with the property
The location is excellent, with plenty to see and do. The pool and garden and view from the terrace overlooking the lake (in the distance) must be wonderful in the summer months. We visited out of season, so were wholly dependent on the house and its facilities, which left a lot to be desired.
Although clean on our arrival, the furniture and furnishings were sparse and tired. There were no mirrors in the house; the dining chairs were folding office chairs; the sofas old and grubby; the ensuite shower head was fixed on the wall at a height of approx 7 ft and sprayed water everywhere but downwards; the internet was intermittent and the television a monstrous antique; there was no handle on the coffee pot / spout on the kettle (making them impossible to handle without risking burns). Individually, these may seem minor issues, but the cumulative effect was negative..
More serious was the disgusting smell from both shower rooms on the ground floor. We did alert the owner on the first day and she arranged for someone to call round straight away to put disinfectant down the toilets. Whilst appreciated, the stench remained throughout our stay. There is clearly a serious drainage issue that requires urgent attention.
For our final 24 hours, we had no electricity. Heavy rain had shorted the circuit, leaving us without heating, lighting, toilets or running water. With our pregnant daughter and grandchildren aged 3 & 4 in the party, we had no alternative but to find alternative accommodation as the house was uninhabitable. This was an extremely stressful end to our holiday. It was obvious to us that the issue was specific to the property (as neighbouring houses (and the town) were unaffected). It was also clear from conversations with the owner that this had happened previously when there had been heavy rain. Regrettably, she has since claimed 'force majeure' and we have been offered no compensation for the loss of use of the property or the cost of the hotel rooms we had to take, let alone for the substantial inconvenience caused to us. We are very disappointed.
Finola B.
Stayed 11 nights in Oct 2019
