This is a somewhat upscale hotel situated just outside of Strasbourg. (Don't let the hustle and bustle of the shopping centers and the ordinariness of Ostwald discourage you as you drive to the hotel, the Chateau de L'Ile is isolated from all of this on a few quiet acres of park next to the river L'Ile.) Its suburban location makes it ideal for visiting the charming city of Strasbourg and driving down the lovely Alsace wine route to the south.

The Chateau de L'Ile is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group. As such, we were hoping to avoid the tendency of larger properties to host meetings and conferences that draw resources and attention away from regular guests of the hotel. Unfortunately, the hotel hosted a number of groups while we were there and their presence was noticeable. We advise you to ask if group meetings are scheduled before you make a reservation.

The hotel consists of a restored 19th century mansion and additional rooms and a spa that were added when the hotel was established. Try to stay in the original mansion, where the rooms are large and have beautiful woodwork, wallcoverings, and furniture. The formal restaurant and the "Winestub" are very good, featuring Alsacian food and wine. Service throughout the hotel is generally good, subject to the distractions created by the groups mentioned above. The bar is a pleasant place to relax with a drink before or after dinner, though we often had to search for the bartender when we wanted service. There is a cigar bar just next to the regular bar (your nose will lead you to it) that seems out-of-place in a hotel that also has a spa that promotes good health.

The Chateau de L'Ile has a touch of elegance and is generally a nice place to stay, but it would be a much more appealing destination if it devoted itself to attracting and attending to the needs of its regular guests instead of managing group meetings.