La Montagne - Not living up to it's Reputation

This popular destination was definitely not geared for visitors over the festive season. We have gone there many, many times in the last 10 years, but will think very carefully before going again. 1. Upon check-in, the we were advised to scan the code. This will be used to communicate all the activities while there. It did not work - The response was that we cannot be helped and there are no alternative, This was tried again the next day, and the following day. We just gave up and hence did not have a clue what was planned for entertainments at the pool area or elsewhere.

2. The televisions did not work - At best there were 2 channels working with one additional very distorted one. Reception blames loadshedding on this. Three or four times there were technicians working on it. The were in and out and in and out of the room. Each time, at some stage just did not come back, no feedback, and still the televisions were not working.

3. The air conditioner did not work the entire time. Maintenance blamed loadshedding. The explanation was there is a "chiller-system". This did not have sufficient time to "something". When asking about fans or alike, the reply was that these get ******, so they do not have any alternative for the guests.

4. The power cut out at odd times and stayed off for quite a while. It is understandable that there will be a lag when loadshedding starts or when it ends - Time must be allowed for alternative power supply to kick in, but on other times this also just cut out.

5. The braai (gas braai outside) was broke and the lid would fall off when trying to open it. There ignitor was broken. After complaining for 2 -3 three days, maintenance found one and only replaced it then. Still, lid falling off when opening and uneven heat due to old age made this am appliance that could not be used.

6. The pillows on the coaches were torn. The inside of the pillows were pealing out at several torn places. These had to be put on the floor away from the couches as they were so badly torn it could not used.

7. There were holes in the floor inside in front pf the television.

8. Access cards to the room - these just stopped working almost on a daily basis. The card would not open the door to the unit and every time we had to go back to reception to re-program these.

9. With very few guests in comparison to previous years, there were very limited number of umbrellas at the pool. The majority of the chairs did not have cover from the sun.

10. Maintenance done in week 51 - Maintenance was done at the pool area in week 51. Panels around the pool area were being replaced at this time. Surely this should have been done before the holiday season.

11. Maintenance done in week 51 - Routine painting was done at the sliding doors leading from the restaurant to the pool area. This should be done before the holiday period.

The overall service was very poor, Upon reporting issues at reception, late afternoon, the response was that the relevant people have gone home. They were only expected back the following morning. When reporting this to a manager, he became aggressive and brushed it off.

This, once preferred, resort was not geared or ready for guests when we visited in week 51.