Having read various reviews on this website, I was convinced I was making a good choice. But was very disappointed. The hotel would seem to focus on Bus Parties who stay for one night, and conferences.

Positives : Room was comfortable and had air conditioning; Breakfast was plentiful if a little unvaried; view from balcony and restaurant of medieval city impressive; Hotel in trundling distance from train station; Coypu in the river (yes, Coypu).

Negatives : Most reception staff very disinterested; no bar; riverside bistro was closed; swimming pool was like an over-sized bath and my mother-in-law's 1980's exercise bike is more impressive than the gym equipment; energy saving lighting in corridors meant you were constantly walking into darkness, giving the feel of being a night watchman or stuck on the set of 'The Shining'. As the lights slowly flickered on I never caught a glimpse of a child on a tricycle, but my husband was theatening to go into the non-existent bar and talk to the non-existent barman.

Friendly reception, helpful...Room was large, nice balcony and perfect view of the castle cite. Clean, GREAT breakfast on 4th floor w view of cite. Crepes, cheeses sausages, ham, authentic pastries and much more.

Booked a medeival city view room for 3 nights. Location of the hotel was fantastic, right at the base of the old bridge and directly in front of the old city. We were disappointed with the room which was quite small and also smelled of cigarettes despite being a non smoking room. The city view could only be seen from the balcony but was amazing and we could just about fit 2 chairs onto the balcony to have a drink looking at the view. Very clean and friendly staff who spoke great English. Food good and view from the restaurant amazing but you need to book in advance. Overall a nice hotel and would recommend as long as you don't mind the small rooms.

We stayed for 4 nights in August 2011. Never having been to Carcassonne before, It looked a little difficult to drive to but I needn't have worried, the one way system is easier than it looks (but don't trust google maps!). Once there, the reception staff speak English and were very helpful - they didn't push their expensive parking lot, but told me where there was ample free parking only a hundred metres away.
The Panoramic room is well worth the small amount extra, the views are stunning. The room was very clean and in good order and the air-con actually worked.
We didn't try the internal restaurant or the outside terrace restaurant due to mixed reviews and the need to book, but they seemed popular enough. To be honest, there are plenty of places to eat either up the hill in La Cite or in the lower town.
Location couldn't have been better. Apart from the views which must be the best in town, the banks of the river offer excellent strolling/sitting opportunities. Its an easy walk up to La Cite and an even easier walk to the lower town (very good for breakfast in the main square, Place Carnot, and cheaper than the hotel).
Overall excellent and I'd have no hesitation in returning. Oh, and free Wi-Fi is available.