Firstly, you must like animals - they have two cats and a lovely golden labrador who will greet you enthusiastically. (Not a problem for us, we love animals and have two dogs ourselves.)

This hotel is clean, pretty, comfortable and perfectly located for the old town of Annecy, right beside the castle and literally a 2 minute walk away. Beware, it is 2 minutes *up* a very steep hill on your way back from the town - that said, our 2-yr-old daughter was ok to walk up unaided, albeit slowly, so it's not as bad as some other reviews might imply - it's a fairly short climb and there are steps.

There is also parking (limited, but my parents and I both got a space) which seems to be unique amongst hotels this close to the centre. Free parking *and* a 2 minute walk in to the old town is just great!

Some other reviews refer to the top floor rooms as shabby. I am writing this review from a decent sized top floor room (number 18, for reference - worth requesting this one specifically, as it seems to be larger than most, though all are nice) on the gable end overlooking the old town and judging by the smell of fresh paint on the top floor, fortunately overwhelmed by the more pleasant smell of new pine furniture in our room, it is very recently refurbished. The shower isn't great, but I can live with that. And obviously there's free wifi - I'm using it right now.

Our room is delightful, the view is great, the bed is comfortable and they have provided a cot for our daughter. My parents are in the room next door which, while smaller, is just as nicely and newly decorated.

Breakfast was a simple one, continental, but perfectly nice and served in a cute little dining room.

Note, I've given it three stars for Service simply because there is no real service (there's no lift, no minibar, etc. etc.) - this bears no reflection on the staff, who are really nice people, it simply reflects the hotel is simple in the services available.

In terms of value for money this hotel is definitely a full 5 out of 5. Definitely recommend!