we travel through France at least twice a year on holiday and have rarely had such good service. The receptionist who greeted us was charming and offered us the choice of 2 rooms and then almost hung out of the window to reassure us that we had parked in the right place!
The room we chose was spotless, as was the other one, and the only downside was that we couldn't work the air conditioning, our fault not the hotels. Would also recommend eating next door, the restaurant has a lovely garden which you can't see from the outside.

We stayed here with our family on 2 different occasions and had a great stay at both times. A very warm welcome, spacious rooms and fresh what looked like new bedlinen, spotless bathrooms and great breakfast. Very centrally located beside restaurants and the shops yet very quiet location. The manager was very welcoming and made sure that we were happy with everything. Parking right outside the door. Highly recommend. Certainly great value for money.

Travelling back up from Languedoc, Montlucon seemed a decent sized town to spend a night on our way north. Pre booked and the hotel was completely average. I'm writing this review 5 months on from our visit because if I don't the recollections of this hotel will fade altogether. What I do recall however is the owner, the chap could not of been more helpful, friendly and welcoming. He was new to the hotel game and his enthusiasm was infectious. I hope it doesn't wear off too soon....
Montlucon itself was a major disappointment. Potentially fantastic it was run down and decrepit (even the old town, unusual in France). The local authority needs to invest here, otherwise what tourist industry is left will erode further. Other French towns manage it under budget constraints , why not here?

We stayed for a night at Hotel de l'Universe and were very happy. The room was quite small but fine for a short stay. It was spotless as was all of the hotel and the bathroom was lovely too. The beds are comfortable and the room nice and warm.
We met only one member of staff who was extremely helpful and friendly, he spoke good english too. Breakfast was served in our room, hot coffee, delicious croissants, fruit salad, juice etc... plenty to keep you going till lunch.
I would recommend this hotel for a short stay and if in montlucon again would not think to stay anywhere else: