Arrived at approx 8 mins to 2pm and somewhat greeted by a chap who either doesn't really like his job or just can't be bothered. Told we can get paperwork done but room isn't ready until 2..no way was he going to check and see if the room was 5 mins early..ok then sorry we are a tad early!
Would've been nice if he'd showed a little enthusiasm and told us there is a bar if we'd like in the meantime but no, we had to ask, also no advice on parking, restaurant or wifi. Surely this couldn't be too hard but obviously being the only customers there, it was indeed all a little too bothersome. Hope newcomers to cairns are told a little more and made to feel welcome?
Anyway we found the bar, no customers, in fact no guests anywhere, but the barman was lovely and did a great coffee and beer.
Half hour later went back to front desk and after a bit of ho humming finally got our key. Pick up your game mate!
The room was sparse, desperately needs a bit of refurb and love.
Bed ok, balcony nice with a partial view out to the lovely esplanade, pillows lumpy and cheap but if you test them early apparently there is a pillow menu.
Be aware that this hotel is a good 20 plus minute walk into town, we know cairns well and just needed somewhere close for an early air departure plus we had the car, on the plus side there is a courtesy bus which will drop you into town.
Pool is closed for a reno, so no swimming for a spell. We didn't try the restaurant, preferred town for dinner.
We live in FNQ so are quite reasonable when it comes to mould but mould on the ceiling is not acceptable, bit of mould spray please.. Bathroom also had more than it's fair share too. Bathroom tiny, shower over bath, good hot water, no safety handle though so be careful getting in and out!
All in all average stay, staying in cairns again in 3 weeks at one of the Rydges so it'll be good to compare as price is similar.
Mercure needs to rethink this place as it could be so much better with a little tlc and enthusiastic staff.

Had a couple of nights at the Mercure. Great views over the Coral sea, rooms are ok but in need of a refurb as looking rather tired. Shuttle Bus into town a bonus. No pool as being repaired would have been a problem if travelling with children, although again shuttle bus to another pool available. Staff very helpful especially Scott who drove the shuttle bus, always a smile for the guests and gave loads of tips and advise when asked - a true asset to the Mercure.