La Mere Champlain

We have dined at this restaurant on a few occasions over a number of years, on almost every occasion enjoying lobster freshly delivered from the vivier in the restaurant and shown to us before cooking. When ordering on this occasion, we mentioned that we wished a small lobster and were then told that most were in the order of 600 grams a bit larger than we would ordinarily wish as we have previously opted for circa 450 grams and smaller lobsters could be seen in the vivier. (Pricing was per 100 grams.) As previously, we expected to be shown the lobsters so we could confirm the size. That did not occur and when presented with the, cooked, lobster they certainly appeared large. When subsequently presented with the bill, it confirmed one of 970 grams and the other of 910 grams. In reality, this resulted in us being charged €80 more than we expected (arguably €120 more than we would have wished had the desired size been available). The advice offered by the waiter could only be described as misleading. (There was no language issue.) All other aspects of our meal were fine, as expected, and the lobster was tasty. However, if you're having lobster, INSIST on seeing it beforehand and if in doubt ask to know the weight. Please don't get caught out as we were on this occasion.

We had a beautiful corner room with balcony with the view of the bay. Our bed was big and comfortable and the room was properly heated. In fact, the heat was too strong that we had to turn of the heater. The hotel is located near the pier and at end of a road which only locals can go through. Not far from the oysters market. The staff that checked us in was super friendly and so were the restaurant staff. We had dinner at their restaurant. My husband opted for seafood choucroute while I chose their sole meunier. Both our main courses were delicious. Our appertizers made of lobster and half a dozen of oysters were equally good. We had a nice table next to a window with the view of the bay. We were here in October and Cancale was quiet, calm and so idyllic. Our stay here was so memorable and so was our eating experience at La Mere Champlain. The only mild complain I had was that they definitely could do better with their breakfast.

When we booked the hotel did not tell us it was carnival in Cancale - their busiest day of the year. Impossible to park within a mile of the hotel - and very noisy until 4 in the morning. We complained and tried to cancel when we arrived and saw the sea front packed with people. They refused to refund and said that next time they would advise customers. Unfriendly and not helpful. Not setting foot here ever again!