Auberge Villa Bellerive - Nominingue

My wife and I had planned a special weekend in the city. We had made a reservation, but when we arrived, the hotel was fully booked. They were kind enough to refund our deposit, but we were definitely more than a little uncomfortable driving into the city, and at 9 o'clock we had to scramble to find another place to stay. How can they mess up a reservation like that? Needless to say, we will never set foot in that hotel again.

The hotel is old and full of history. Some of the rooms have been renovated, but not all of them, including the ones we stayed in. The beds were supposed to be two queen-size beds with a sea view, but they were actually two double beds with a corner view of the sea, mostly blocked by trees. People don't come here solely for the rooms or the food, but for the amazing landscape and sea view. The view of the lake and surroundings from the back terrace is magnificent. The hotel has docks for boats, but they are only for docking, not for swimming. The hotel could use some love, but it has a lot of potential. We rented two kayaks for the day and had a great time paddling around the lakes. The only downside was that we had to carry the kayaks in and out of the water ourselves. Other than that, it was a pleasant stay. The owner, Yvonne, is very friendly and willing to help with any questions or suggestions. They offer breakfast for $12.50/person, which is decent but overpriced compared to breakfast places in the city. There are good restaurants in the city, just 5 minutes away from the hotel, and surprisingly many of the employees are friendly and helpful.

We visited this restaurant a few years ago, and again last week. Time has brought changes. The once beautiful dining room is now the owner's living room, making dinner in that space no longer an option (although they do offer a free shuttle to a nearby golf course). They offer a multi-course menu, but it is not visible. The full breakfast is still available and served hot and delicious by the water. Some rooms have been renovated, while others are still in the process, leading to varying prices. The pool needed cleaning, and I even rescued a sick frog from the pool ladder. The whirlpool offers a stunning view of the lake and is a welcome relief for cyclists. The grounds were not well maintained, with building materials scattered around, plants missing in the gardens, car mats drying on the benches, and sharp ladders leading to the lake. This visit was disappointing for a place with such a beautiful location and potential. Perhaps it is a work in progress, maybe next time will be better, or maybe not.

Sure it's under renovations right now... but who cares!! It had everything we needed! Pool, hot tub, beautiful quiet lake, fantiastic view of the sunset and a bottle opener! Oh and I should mention... wonderful water pressure!! We were greeted in both French and English...by the owners and their dogs... very simple check in... easy going... just perfect. They have bike stands to lock your bikes and instant access to the paved portion of the Train du Nord. (between the 142 and 143 km marker). After the first day, I was already planning my next trip... imagine this place in the fall.... WOW!!!

We'd planned a stop here for lunch at the dock cafe, but were disappointed to find it wasn't open for lunch, just breakfast and dinner. The place does look terrific, and we're sorry we couldn't try it out. I just wanted to post the comment...so if others cycling the Petit Train du Nord planned a lunch stop here they would be warned. Even several of the other restaurants in Nominingue were closed for the lunch hour. (Trip Advisor makes me choose a rating, but I'm afraid mine must be based solely on the appearance. We will try to schedule an appropriate time to return and dine!