Hotel Harder Minerva

The hotel's central location in Interlaken, placing guests within easy reach of the main street, shopping areas, and both train stations, is its most notable feature. The historic building itself adds a unique character. It caters well to sightseers and explorers who prioritize accessibility to local attractions and transportation. While some find it suitable for budget travelers due to its relative affordability in a high-cost area, others feel the value for money is inconsistent. Families might appreciate the common areas, though room size can be a constraint. To make the most of your stay, guests recommend arriving early for breakfast to ensure a full selection and being aware of the strict reception hours for check-in and luggage storage. It's also advisable to manage expectations regarding room size and the age of the building's facilities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers several convenient facilities that enhance the guest experience. Many guests appreciate the elevator, though some note it only reaches the third floor. A standout feature is the common area equipped with a TV, computer/printer, microwave, and communal refrigerator, providing a useful space for guests to relax or prepare their own food. This area also often includes free snacks, fruits, tea, and coffee. Rooms typically come with a water kettle and instant coffee/tea. While free Wi-Fi is available, feedback on its reliability varies. Most rooms lack traditional air conditioning, instead offering portable units that some find noisy or ineffective. Other amenities like an in-room safe or a mirror outside the bathroom are often absent, and some bathrooms lack a hairdryer or bidet.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is quite mixed. While many guests report their rooms are clean and well-maintained, with daily bed making, a significant number describe issues such as dust, uncleaned floors, or hair strands in the shower. The bathrooms are frequently described as small, with recurring complaints about mould in the showers and a persistent bad odor. Room sizes are a consistent point of contention, with many finding them very small and cramped, sometimes with beds pushed against walls. Bed comfort also varies widely; some guests praise the comfortable beds, while many others find the mattresses old, uneven, or super soft, leading to restless nights. Noise levels from outside or other rooms are occasionally mentioned, but overall, rooms are often described as quiet.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast receives varied feedback, though many guests find it to be a good value. Most appreciate the variety of food offered, including breads, eggs, waffles, cheese, and ham, along with a selection of hot and cold beverages. Some guests specifically highlight the availability of almond milk and muesli. However, a common complaint is the lack of menu changes, making it repetitive for longer stays. Some guests also report that the breakfast buffet can run out of items quickly, especially if not arriving early, and that staff may be slow to replenish. A notable issue for many is the pervasive smell from the Chinese restaurant located downstairs, which can be noticeable throughout the hotel, particularly in the evenings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest assets. Guests find it incredibly convenient, being within easy walking distance of the main street, shopping areas, and both the Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost train stations. Its proximity to bus stops and various restaurants makes exploring the town and planning itineraries straightforward. Many appreciate being close to parks, the river, and a local bakery. While the hotel is situated near public parking spaces, guests frequently note that parking can be quite expensive and not always readily available, contradicting some initial expectations. Despite some minor concerns about the immediate surrounding area, the location is generally considered safe and highly accessible for tourists.

Staff & Service
Guest feedback on staff and service is notably polarized. Many guests praise the friendly, helpful, and attentive staff, highlighting their willingness to accommodate requests, assist with luggage storage, and provide local information. The check-in process is often described as smooth and efficient when staff are present. However, a significant number of reviews describe negative experiences, citing staff as rude, unprofessional, or unresponsive, particularly outside of limited reception hours. Some guests report long waits at the reception desk or issues with rooms not being cleaned thoroughly. The hotel's policy of having no service available after 9 PM, requiring guests to call a number for assistance, is a point of frustration for some.

Additional Information
The hotel, housed in an old building dating back to the 1890s, offers some unique aspects that guests should be aware of. A notable feature is the provision of free local bus travel tickets, which greatly aids in exploring Interlaken. While luggage storage is offered, some guests have reported concerns about its security, with instances of items being misplaced or stolen. The hotel maintains strict check-in and check-out times, and guests arriving outside these hours or delaying departure may face challenges or additional fees. The pervasive smell from the Chinese restaurant on the ground floor is a recurring comment, affecting the ambiance in corridors. Some guests also mention the availability of free water refill stations.