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Summary of reviewsHôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup, garners a reputation for its excellent location. Strategically positioned near highways 20 and 85, it is an ideal stopover for travelers between major cities. Guests appreciate its proximity to amenities like grocery stores, fast food outlets, restaurants and the downtown area. The hotel's ease of access, ample free parking and tranquil environment, despite its central location, further enhance the stay. Additionally, the on-site restaurant, small spa and modern, well-maintained rooms add to the overall positive experience. For those indulging in activities like snowmobiling or exploring the Gaspé Peninsula, the convenience is unmatched.
The breakfast at Hôtel Universel receives mixed feedback. While some guests appreciate the quality and variety of the options available at La Verrière and praise the service, others find the breakfast pricey and disappointing, particularly due to the expectation of it being included in the room price. Nevertheless, those who chose to pay extra generally found the breakfast satisfying.
On the dining front, the BOREAL restaurant and La Verrière receive positive remarks for their excellent food and great service. Guests, however, point out occasional issues with high prices, slow service during busy periods and limited menu options. Despite these hiccups, the convenience of on-site dining and the overall quality make the dining experiences largely enjoyable.
The rooms at Hôtel Universel are particularly appreciated for their comfort, cleanliness and modernity. Guests laud the spaciousness, practical amenities and appealing décor. The beds are noted for comfort and amenities like smart TVs, Nespresso coffee makers and soundproofing contribute to a restful stay. Although there are occasional minor cleanliness oversights and noise from air conditioning units, the overall room experience is positive.
Cleanliness across the hotel consistently impresses guests, emphasizing clean, modern rooms, fresh ambiance and well-maintained facilities. The common areas are clean and tastefully decorated. The staff is frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, bilingual capabilities and the high standard of service, though there are occasional mentions of unhelpfulness or indifference.
The Wi-Fi experience varies significantly among guests. Some describe it as fast and efficient, while others report issues with slow speeds and unreliable connections, sometimes even in accessible areas, which can detract from an otherwise comfortable stay.
The gym receives a mixed response; although appreciated for its 24-hour accessibility, guests note that it is small, outdated and requires maintenance. For those seeking a basic workout, it suffices, but it may fall short for those expecting a more modern facility.
The pool area is popular, especially among families, for its clean facilities and entertaining water slide. However, frequent closures, cold water and overcrowdings are noted drawbacks. Despite these issues, it remains a significant attraction.
Hôtel Universel is well-regarded for its family-friendly environment. The arcade room and pool area are popular with children and spacious, soundproof rooms enhance family stays. Although there are occasional challenges such as navigating the parking lot or limited pool time, the hotel’s amenities ensure an engaging and comfortable experience for families.
The beds, in particular, receive strong praise for their comfort with multiple guests describing them as conducive to a good night's sleep. The combination of modern appeal and comfort makes Hôtel Universel a preferred choice for a variety of travelers. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
Features an indoor pool equipped with a slide and water games, providing a fun and engaging swimming experience for children.
Hotel with Pool Water Slide
Features an indoor pool with a waterslide, offering recreational water activities for guests of all ages.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel with Spa
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Heated Pool Indoor Pool Pool Water Slide
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
4-Star Hotel
Hotel with Indoor Pool
Hotel with Heated Pool
Room Types
Classic Queen Room with Two Queen BedsThis room has a desk, microwave and refrigerator.
Superior Queen Room with Two Queen BedsThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath and a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Classic King RoomThe spacious double room features air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath and a shower. The unit has 1 bed and 1 futon.
Superior Queen RoomThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath and a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Double RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The spacious double room features air conditioning, soundproof walls, a coffee machine, a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 2 beds.
Double Room with Pool ViewProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a coffee machine, a wardrobe as well as pool views. The unit offers 2 beds.
About Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup
License: 054854
Guest Reviews
8.2
Very Good
Location
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup, consistently receives praise for its excellent location. Positioned conveniently close to highways 20 and 85, it serves as an ideal stopover for travelers journeying between major cities such as Halifax and Toronto or Ottawa and Sydney. Its proximity to essential amenities, including grocery stores, fast food outlets, restaurants and the downtown area, makes it a practical choice for both short and extended stays. Guests appreciate the hotel's accessibility, ample free parking and the ease with which it can be found. The hotel is particularly noted for being quiet and clean despite its centrality, providing a restful environment. Additionally, its excellent facilities, including an on-site restaurant and a small spa, as well as its modern, well-maintained rooms, further enhance the overall experience. Its location also makes it a convenient spot for snowmobiling and a central base for exploring the Gaspé Peninsula. Overall, the Hôtel Universel's combination of strategic location, cleanliness and quality service ensures a satisfying stay for all its guests.
Breakfast
The breakfast offering at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup has garnered mixed reviews from guests. A common theme was the expectation for breakfast to be included in the room price, which was often not the case, adding an extra cost to the stay. Despite this disappointment, many guests found the breakfast itself to be of good quality with several praising the excellent and varied options available at the on-site restaurant, La Verrière. Positive reviews pointed out great table service, tasty and hearty meals and the availability of gluten-free bread.
However, some feedback indicated that the breakfast could be pricey relative to the amount offered and a few found it to be underwhelming or lacking in variety. Issues such as the absence of simple breakfast items and a toaster were also mentioned. Guests noted that breakfast could be ordered à la carte, but it was often considered expensive.
The overall sentiment is that while the breakfast quality and service were appreciated by many, the absence of an included or complimentary breakfast was seen as a drawback, especially given the room rates. For those willing to pay extra, the breakfast was generally well-received, but the additional cost might be a consideration for future guests.
Dinner
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers several dining options with mixed reviews from guests with many focusing on the quality and overall dining experience at the hotel. The predominant sentiment skewed positively, especially towards the BOREAL restaurant and La Verrière, which were frequently praised for their excellent food, great service and overall dining experience. Numerous guests were impressed with the quality and taste of the meals, highlighting dishes such as the beef shoulder tataki and surf & turf. The ambiance in La Verrière was described as pleasant and the service was frequently mentioned as fast and friendly.
However, some guests noted drawbacks, including the price, which some felt was too high for the value delivered. Additionally, there were complaints about a slow service at times, particularly in the billiard room and during busy periods like pre-Christmas gatherings. A few found the menu offerings limited or pretentious and on occasion, the food was noted to be cold or disappointing.
Nevertheless, the convenience of having an onsite restaurant was appreciated by many, despite some expressing frustration with the temporary dining arrangements necessitated by renovations. Overall, while the dining experiences at Hôtel Universel receive high marks for food quality and service, there are some areas where consistency could be improved, especially regarding pricing and menu variety.
Rooms
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a pleasant room experience, underscored by positive reviews highlighting the comfort, cleanliness and modernity of its accommodations. The rooms are commonly described as spacious, well-decorated and updated, featuring practical amenities like microwaves, fridges and Nespresso coffee makers.
Guests frequently mention the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms, emphasizing the appealing décor and lack of carpet. Many rooms are newly renovated, providing bright and airy spaces. The beds are noted to be very comfortable with extra pillows available, contributing to a restful stay. Several reviews also state that the rooms are well-soundproofed, providing a quiet atmosphere despite the hotel's size.
Amenities such as functional and modern bathrooms, plenty of towels and features like smart TVs and comfortable seating are also appreciated. Some rooms offer a balcony or patio, adding an extra layer of comfort. The hotel's Nordic spa and pool areas receive praise as complementary facilities enhancing the overall guest experience.
A few minor drawbacks are noted, such as occasional cleanliness oversights and noise from the air conditioning units. However, the general consensus is that the rooms at Hôtel Universel provide a comfortable, modern and clean environment, making it a satisfactory choice for travelers.
Beds
Nestled in Rivière-du-Loup, Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès shines brightly with its modern appeal and a strong focus on comfort. The guests consistently highlight the remarkable quality of the beds, describing them as comfortable, super comfy and conducive to a good night's sleep. Rooms are praised not only for their spaciousness but also for their cleanliness, which adds to the overall comfortable experience.
Many appreciated the softness and supportive nature of the mattresses, making sleep a relaxing experience. While a few guests found the bedding too firm or old, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction and appreciation for the comfortable beds.
The consistency in positive feedback suggests that the hotel has paid close attention to ensuring guests have restful and relaxing night stays, making it an attractive choice for visitors to the area. Despite minor complaints regarding mattress firmness and pillow quality, the hotel seems to deliver a generally comfortable and welcoming overnight experience.
Cleanliness
Hôtel Universel in Rivière-du-Loup consistently impresses guests with its high standards of cleanliness and comfort. The hotel rooms, widely described as very clean and modern, are appreciated for their cleanliness, fresh ambiance and comfortable bedding. Many guests enjoyed the clean white bedding, elegant decorations and well-maintained facilities. Common areas, including the hallways and pool, were found to be clean and tastefully decorated, though a few guests noted some lapses in these areas.
The modern design, spacious rooms and up-to-date amenities added to the overall positive experiences, making the hotel a pleasant place to stay. The establishment is noted for its friendly staff and efficient housekeeping, contributing to an elevated level of hospitality. Despite a few isolated incidents of uncleanliness and some areas needing deeper cleaning, the general consensus highlights the hotel's impeccable standards. The location's easy access to nearby restaurants and services, combined with ample parking and soundproof rooms, further enhances its appeal.
Overall, Hôtel Universel offers a clean, comfortable and welcoming environment, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking reliability and modern amenities in Rivière-du-Loup.
Staff
The Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup receives high marks for its staff who are often described as friendly, professional and helpful. Many guests commend the courteous and welcoming nature of the employees, highlighting their efficiency and the fast and friendly service provided upon arrival. The reception and dining staff, in particular, receive accolades for their attentiveness and bilingual capabilities.
The chef is noted as brilliant by some and the overall service in the hotel maintains a high standard according to several reviews. Additionally, the hotel rooms and cleanliness are frequently praised, suggesting a well-managed environment.
However, not all experiences are positive. There are mentions of unhelpful front desk staff with occasional notes of rudeness and indifference. Some guests felt the reception staff lacked warmth or seemed overwhelmed and tired. The pool and child monitoring services appeared to need improvement based on guest feedback.
Overall, despite a few areas needing attention, the majority of guest feedback emphasizes that the hotel's staff contribute significantly to a pleasant and accommodating stay.
Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi experience at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup, appears to be highly varied among guests. Positive feedback highlights the Wi-Fi as being very fast and efficient with some guests noting that it was available without a password and accessible throughout the property, including in corridors and private rooms. These reviews suggest that for some, the internet service met their needs perfectly, even being described as high-speed and great in some instances.
However, a significant number of reviews point to considerable issues with the Wi-Fi. Numerous guests reported the connection as extremely slow, unreliable and often cutting out entirely, which hindered their ability to work effectively. Common complaints include the Wi-Fi being very weak, only working sporadically or not being accessible in certain rooms at all. Some guests suggested the need for a password-protected network to improve security and perhaps the stability of the connection.
In summary, while there are moments of efficient and high-speed Wi-Fi, many guests experienced a range of connectivity problems, from slow speeds to complete outages, which detracted from an otherwise comfortable stay.
Gym
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a gym facility that has received mixed reviews from its guests. While the gym is appreciated for being available 24 hours a day, providing convenience for late-night workouts or early-morning exercise routines, it has several areas that need improvement. Guests have noted that the gym space is quite small and outdated with some equipment being out of order and in need of maintenance. Despite the size and condition issues, the gym does provide a variety of exercise options and is a part of a broader spa and fitness center that includes a pleasant Nordic spa experience. Cleanliness has been cited as a significant area for enhancement, indicating that more attention to the upkeep of the fitness center would benefit future visitors. For those seeking a quick, basic workout during their stay, the gym serves its purpose, but it may not meet the expectations of those looking for a more modern or fully-equipped facility.
Pool
Located in Rivière-du-Loup, Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès features an inviting pool area that has garnered mixed reviews from guests. Many appreciate the beautiful, clean pool and its appeal for families, particularly the children who enjoy the water slide and the pool area designed for their entertainment. The facilities are described as clean with plenty of fresh towels and well-maintained with features such as life jackets and toys. Visitors also mention the convenience of having a pool accessible, adding value to their stay.
However, the pool has faced several closures, often without prior notice, due to renovations or cleanliness issues. Guests have frequently mentioned the pool water being too cold and some have found the pool to be smaller and more crowded than expected based on online photos. Others noted an overwhelming smell of chlorine that even filtered into their rooms. The lifeguards and pool maintenance received mixed feedback, some finding the staff overwhelmed or stern.
Despite these setbacks, the pool remains a significant attraction, especially for kids, but the hotel might need to manage expectations and provide timely updates about pool availability and conditions to ensure a better experience for all.
Family
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a host of family-friendly amenities that make it a prime destination for those traveling with children. One of the standout features is the arcade room, which repeatedly receives praise for its fun appeal. The swimming pool, equipped with an exciting water slide, is another highlight, often mentioned as a beloved spot for kids who enjoyed hours of fun splashing around. Multiple reviews emphasize how family travel-friendly the pool area is, although it can get crowded and some found the water too cold.
The hotel also features spacious rooms that comfortably accommodate families with the family suites receiving special mention for their size and suitability. Parents appreciated the clean and well-maintained environment, noting that the soundproof rooms allowed for a restful stay despite the family traffic. Additionally, being able to bring along pets was a special bonus for some families.
While the overall sentiment is highly positive, some reviews suggest there is room for improvement. For example, the limited pool time due to COVID-19 restrictions was a bit disappointing for some children. Navigating the parking lot proved challenging for single parents.
Overall, Hôtel Universel strikes a balance between providing an engaging and comfortable experience for families with its numerous kid-friendly facilities ensuring that both children and adults have a pleasing stay.
4 Star
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup presents an appearance that fits the four-star category with its beautiful, sophisticated decor. Guests appreciated the stylishly renovated rooms and modern bathrooms, although the latter were noted to be somewhat small. The hotel offers valuable amenities and the cleanliness and quietness of the property were well-received.
The staff at the hotel are frequently mentioned for their kindness and efficiency, providing great service and a smooth check-in and check-out process. The overall ambience matches the four-star rating, contributing to a luxurious experience, albeit at a higher price.
However, some guests found the gym to be less than optimal and noted that the hotel could benefit from improved signage, particularly in the parking lot. There were also mentions that the hotel's standards do not entirely align with Anglo-Saxon criteria for a four-star rating with some feeling that it felt closer to a three-star property. Nonetheless, the hotel was praised for its high quality and valuable amenities. Despite some critiques, many felt the four-star rating was well deserved, particularly appreciating the hotel's clean and environmentally conscious approach.
Business
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a range of amenities catering to business travelers, making it a suitable choice for professionals on the go. The hotel features well-equipped business facilities, including dedicated conference rooms that provide an excellent environment for meetings and events. The modern, recently updated room designs include ample workspace, ensuring guests can maintain productivity during their stay.
The business center is well-appointed, offering essential services, although some guests mentioned that there is room for improvement in this area and the price can be on the higher side. Despite this, the good service and overall value for money make it a compelling option for business trips.
Additional amenities that enhance the business travel experience include a calm and organized environment, quick and efficient front desk service and clean, quiet spaces like the pool and spa. Conveniently located in a busy business park along the St. Lawrence River, the hotel provides easy access to nearby business activities. Overall with its classic conference hotel setup and attention to modern comforts, Hôtel Universel is a competent choice for business travelers looking for convenience and a professional atmosphere during their stay.
Accessible
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup, stands out for its accessibility features that cater to guests with disabilities. The facility is highly accessible with essential amenities like elevators making the stay more convenient. The hotel's ground floor is particularly noted for its easy access and several rooms are designed to be accessible, including direct access from parking areas.
Guests appreciate the clean hallways and overall cleanliness of the accessible areas. Additionally, the hotel offers disability access parking, although some opinions suggest there could be more spots available. The property's location is excellent with easy access to the highway and various attractions in the vicinity, making travel straightforward.
The hotel also provides options for those with limited mobility, including rooms on the first floor with direct parking lot access. Although recent renovations might have temporarily affected access, overall, the accessibility, comfort and amenities like the swimming pool received positive feedback. There were a few concerns, such as the functionality of bathroom fans in some rooms and the distance to some accommodations for those using crutches.
Pool Water Slide
The pool at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a mix of indoor and outdoor swimming experiences featuring a water slide that has received enthusiastic approval from many children. Families have highlighted the enjoyment their kids had with the slide, which is specifically designed for younger guests. Despite some operational challenges, such as occasional closures due to a lack of staff and maintenance issues, the water slide remains a popular feature. The indoor pool area has been noted as a pleasant spot for family bath time, although some visitors have encountered hygiene concerns and temperature issues. In essence, the water slide becomes a favorite attraction for children when available and functional, adding to the hotel’s family-friendly amenities.
Heated Pool
At Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup, guests frequently highlight the heated pool as a standout feature. The pool is praised for its warm water and cleanliness, creating a pleasant and relaxing environment. Families especially appreciate the child-friendly aspect of the pool with options like bathrobes available in the room.
The pool area is generally well-maintained and described as calm, contributing to a serene atmosphere. Despite occasional issues such as temporary closures and occasional colder temperatures, the heated pool remains a popular and appreciated amenity among guests. Overall, the heated pool at Hôtel Universel offers a great experience, providing comfort and enjoyment for visitors of all ages.
Indoor Pool
The indoor pool at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup has received mixed feedback from guests. Many reviews highlight that the pool area is beautiful and clean, making it a pleasant environment for families. The pool, though noted as smaller than expected, is particularly appreciated by children with features like a pool slide adding to their enjoyment. Families have found the indoor pool to be a great addition to their vacation experience with some mentioning it could be a nice place for quiet relaxation.
However, several reviews pointed out a few drawbacks. The pool's operating hours seem limited, often only available in the evening, which has led to some disappointment. A strong smell of chlorine was a concern for a few guests and others noted that the pool appears aged and outdated. Despite these issues, the indoor pool still remains a notable feature for families staying at the hotel, albeit not conducive for serious adult swimming. The hotel itself is praised for being calm and clean, offering a good balance for a family-friendly stay.
Romantic
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup offers a superb setting for a romantic getaway. Guests frequently highlight its wonderful sunset views and the overall peaceful, quiet atmosphere throughout the hotel. The comfortable suites, complete with TVs and books, contribute to a relaxing stay. Several areas within the hotel provide a romantic ambiance perfect for couples, including the stylish relaxing spaces and outdoor fireplace. Dining at the charming on-site restaurant has also been noted as a delightful experience. While there were some minor issues with amenities like the bathroom fan and fridge, the overall experience has been described as very enjoyable, particularly for those seeking a romantic weekend.
Dog Friendly
Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup receives strong affirmation for its dog-friendly accommodations. Guests frequently appreciate the hotel's pet-friendly policy, highlighting the ease with which pets are allowed. The rooms designated for pet owners are noted to be very clean, up-to-date and conveniently accessible from the outside, making them ideal for travelers with dogs. The hotel’s location also serves well for stopovers, adding to its convenience.
Staff are commended for their accommodating attitude towards dogs and many guests are grateful that their pets could accompany them without issue. The possibility to bring pets without difficulty and the hotel's acceptance of animals go a long way in ensuring a positive experience.
Several reviews note minor inconveniences, such as the occurrence of dogs barking at night and a slight sense of annoyance from neighboring animals. However, these issues do not overshadow the positive sentiment mainly due to the hotel's clean, family-friendly and beautiful environment.
There are additional costs involved for bringing pets, which some find a bit steep, especially for smaller animals, but overall visitors seem pleased with the pet policies. The dog-friendly amenities and the polite, accepting staff contribute significantly to making the stays enjoyable for dog owners.
Yes, Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Indoor Pool, Pool Water Slide.
Yes, a spa is available at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup.
Yes, Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup.
Yes, Hôtel Universel, Centre de congrès Rivière-du-Loup has a gym.