C'est la Vie Inn

I have stayed in a lot of B&Bs around the country and just spent a delightful six nights at C'est La Vie, a wonderful bed and breakfast in a residential area within walking distance of downtown Eugene and its nice shops and Saturday Market. It was my first stay in this "not so Victorian B&B," which is a beautifully restored residence featuring different full breakfasts every day. The gardens, lovingly tended by Jack, are exquisite and of course it was the perfect time of year to see them. My room, the Matisse, featured a comfortable queen bed, a small flat-panel TV, a roomy en suite bath with claw foot tub, and temperature control. I slept incredibly well! Owner Anne Marie was in Paris but Jack joined us for breakfast each day, prepared to talk about the house, the restored antiques, the gardens or what to see in Eugene. It was a wonderful stay and I'll be back!

In a word: gorgeous!!! Such a fabulous place to stay. Jack and AnneMarie are so hospitable!!! We had a great time and we hope to return soon.

This was our second visit to the Inn - so obviously we have enjoyed it before. The accommodations at the Inn are wonderful in every detail. The breakfast was delicious but I remember our previous visit was better - that was why I only say it met my expectations. The owners are a wealth of information not only about the Inn but also the surrounding area. I could spend hours in the garden and the cookie jar of homemade chocolate chips was like the icing on the cake : ) We were only there one night but it will be the place we stay on our next trip.

My husband and I travel to Eugene every summer and, since discovering C'est la Vie Inn, always make that our destination. The inn is an elegant and welcoming "home away from home", due mainly to the warmth, graciousness and attention to detail of the hosts. While at the inn we feel relaxed and well-rested after a night in the supremely comfortable bed, made up with the finest bed linens; we feel aesthetically pleased and inspired by both the interior design and the gardens; and we feel pampered after being served an imaginative and delicious breakfast. On top of all this, the hosts very kindly invite our local family in for one of their exceptional breakfasts. Well done, Anne-Marie and Jack, we can't wait to return! Liz and Steve

We found out about this B&B in a guide book and decided to stop off there on our way through to Portland. It was really worth it as we got such a warm welcome. Beautiful house, rooms and gardens, I would high recommend it.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at C'est la Vie Inn. The innkeepers have created a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel at home. We look forward to our next visit!

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at C'est la Vie Inn. Both the food and the hospitality were memorable. I was visiting Eugene for cooking classes and enjoyed the recipes that Anne-Marie and Jack of the C'est had posted on their website. I even made the cinnamon toasts (baked French toast) for a group the following Sunday at Trinity at it was a hit. The gardens were outstanding. Small signs next to each plant and flower with their name was a very nice touch. Conisder a stay here next time you are in Eugene!

We enjoyed our overnight in Eugene with Jack and Anne-Marie. Lovely home, fabulous gardens and delicious breakfast. We found C'est la Vie to be great value...and we learned somethings about dahlias.

Ann Marie and Jack were very gracious hosts and more than willing to offer advice on things to see and do. The grounds were fabulous as were the breakfasts. We wouldn't hesitate to stay again.

C'est la Vie Inn exceeded all of our expectations. The Inn was beautifully furnished, the room comfortable with many extra amenities, the ground were magnificent, a gardener's delight, our host gracious, friendly, helpful and very accommodating, and the breakfasts were first class, a gourmet's treat. We had a wonderful time. Jack and Anne-Marie couldn't have been better host. They truly run a first rate B&B. It is truly a little gem in Eugene. Joan and Tom

This was my first stay in a B & B and I was NOT disappointed in the least...C'est la Vie is so comfortable and cozy..you feel at home. Furnishings are perfect for this refurbished Victorian, clean home, friendly hosts who make you feel like long lost cousins come home..Breakfast was fantastic both days I was there and meeting the guests in the morning topped it all off..I'm hooked on B & B's thanks to C'est la Vie..

At the recommendation of a friend, my partner and I spent two days as guests of the C'est la Vie Inn in Eugene. The proprietor was friendly and accommodating, the room was clean and comfortable, and the Inn completely charming. The surprise was the breakfast each morning, which was fresh, ample, and surprisingly good. For anyone in Eugene for the opera (as we were) or on business at the University, this off-the-beaten-track retreat is a great alternative to a generic hotel.

My husband and I had a pleasant stay at C'est la Vie. The breakfast was tasty, the company was friendly and professional, and the room was cozy and relaxing-thank you!

My stay at C'est la Vie Inn was most enjoyable. The accommodations, food and staff are all wonderful. Even the other guests were quite friendly and happy to share their story of how they found themselves in such a great location. I look forward to returning.

This was our first time in OR, and we could'nt of picked a better plae to stay, the Home was beautiful, the owner's sweet. We will come back!!

I would highly recommend a stay at C'est la Vie! Our room was gorgeous and as we arrived snow began falling outside, making it a rather magica experiencel! Very comfortable and beautifully decorated room, a grand piano is available for those who can play, very friendly and attentive owners and a delicious breakfast!

The Casablanca room, where we stayed, was rich in details and romance. The savory breakfast was of exceptional quality. The perfect place for a special getaway.

Very good amenities, Nice inn keepers, the house was spotless and the interior decoration was flawless. The keepers really care about their facility and the comfort of the guests. The breakfasts were tasty and fresh. No complaints. I would stay at the C'est la Vie Inn again.

My son and I stayed at this charming Victorian Inn over the Christmas Holidays and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's better than home...they quietly anticipate and cater to your every need. The owner was so accommodating we hated to leave. We plan to make this a family tradition and will return again next year.

We stayed in the Casablanca Suite and loved every minute of it. The room is truly a suite and very roomy. A jacuzzi to relax in with a separate bathroom with shower. A small kitchenette type wall with fridge microwave and sink was a nice touch. The bed was very comfortable as was the rest of the Inn. The gardens were beautiful and I would love to see how much better they must be in spring. Top it all off with gracious hosts and we had a very relaxing and rejuvenating stay.

There is always a little anxiety when booking three nights at a B&B you've never seen or heard about. This ended up being a wonderful experience. From our lovely room to the delicious breakfasts, every bit of our stay was wonderful. I would recommend C'est la Vie Inn for anyone coming to Eugene. We will be back!

I have stayed in many a bed & breakfast. I have come to expect cleanliness, hospitality, good and healthy food, quiet, and security. I found ALL of these pieces at C'est la Vie Inn in Eugene. It is quite apparent that the innkeepers take pride in their home. I'm visiting there again this month! Anna Storms Ingram, Arizona.

I was calling at the last minute on a weekend that had several of the hotels in Eugene sold out. I stumbled on C'est la Vie, who had a last minute cancellation, and counted myself lucky. I had no idea... Very friendly and accommodating service, impeccable decor, comfortable bed, flat-screen cable television, claw-foot tub... the list goes on. I have stayed in some very nice places in Napa, Mendocino, San Diego, New York, Amsterdam... and this one is right up there - world class! Highly recommend.

C'est la Vie Inn is a delightful small inn that features comfortable rooms, friendly owners, great breakfasts, and a beautiful garden. It is a peaceful and charming place to stay in Eugene. I will definitely return here during my next trip.

Perfectly run, clean, thoughtful staff, terrific breakfast. Do stay here if you visit Eugene.

The house is lovely. Beautiful gardens. Furnishings are perfect for the era of the building. Very nice management. Food was fantastic. Very accommodating. A little on the expensive side but very nice.

Charming downtown refurbished victorian with delightful helpful owners! I would recommend this inn to anyone staying in Eugene.

As we drove up to the B&B, I was awe struck by the beauty of the house and grounds. The innkeeper was working in the yard, but was so pleased to see us, he stopped and gave us a tour of his home. The gardens are too difficult to describe. They are as beautiful as any arboretum I have been to, complete with names of all the plants. Our stay was exceedingly comfortable and the breakfast was outstanding, even though we happen to be the only ones there that night (weeknight). I would highly recommend this to any friend. Thank you for a pleasant stay. Anne Allen

It was very beautiful overall. The room was clean, impressive, and charming! My husband and I had a very special weekend at the inn. Would love to come back again!

Three of us stayed two nights at C’est La Vie in the magnificent 750 square foot “Casablanca” room – the best room at the Inn. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by Ann Marie and Jack, the proprietors, who graciously helped us with our luggage and gave us a tour of the house. Every detail of the remodeled interior was designed by Ann Marie’s exquisite European taste. Husband Jack maintains the attractive grounds, which feature a variety of plants and other intriguing curiosities, like an outdoor model train. What impressed us the most was that we had first-rate accommodations for half the price of a mediocre competitor. We started each day with a hot, hearty European breakfast with eggs, meats, breads, and fruits brought to our room in an elegant presentation by their cheerful morning assistants. The only dark moment of our visit was having to check out and leave the pampered life we enjoyed at C’est La Vie. We highly recommend C’est La Vie, not only for travelers seeking lovely accommodations while passing through Eugene, but also for folks in need of some quiet, elegant, romantic time away. C’est La Vie is worthy of being its own vacation or retreat destination. SUSIE and JESSICA from Las Vegas, NV; and JOHNNY from Portland, OR.

We have stayed at several bed and breakfasts over the years and we rate C'est La Vie as one of the best we have ever stayed at. Anne Marie and Stephanie were terrific hosts. We will recommend it to all of our friends.

My experience with this property took place in: August, 2007 C'est La Vie, my first B & B experience was excellent, a definite ‘must’ for the connoisseurs of hospitality. Surprisingly, not one aspect of the C’est La Vie may be criticized. We stayed in a variety of rooms; the Monet, the Gauguin and the Casablanca. All rooms were meticulously decorated, clean, quiet, comfortable, with fine linen and large, updated bathrooms. Our favorite room was the Casablanca, which provided plenty of space for us and a refrigerator well stocked with welcomed, gratis drinks. My requests were quickly accommodated including resetting the temperature thermostats in our room. Although the historic house restorations and immaculate garden are more than perfectly delightful, hospitality set this property apart from any other. Usually I prefer to be left alone, however, I found myself spending time with the proprietors, Ann Marie and Jack because they are interesting, very nice and warm people. The housekeeper was also lovely, insisting we take several pieces of fresh blueberry blintz casserole with me when we departed.

What drew me to C'est la Vie was a great web presence. It looked good online, but when I found that it's even better in real life, I realized that others should be so lucky. Anne-Marie is such a warm hostess and the accommodations could not have been better. She's a wonderful chef AND she makes great coffee, both of which she was sure I had enjoyed enough of. The house is such a pleasure, as is Anne-Marie, that I can't recommend it highly enough.

My husband and I have stayed at C'est la Vie Inn several times and have always found our host, Anne Marie, charming and the place itself, warm and inviting. We have stayed in the Monet and Matisse rooms--both are wonderful but I confess a particular fondness for the quirky fish wallpaper in the Matisse, as well as the beautiful window above the tub in the bath. The Inn is very well appointed. In fact, we've never seen so much attention to detail in all of our B and B travels in Oregon. The building facade is done in whimsical pinks and blues and the entrance way and fencing is a sight to behold. I understand that Anne Marie's husband is the master behind the Inn's pretty pond and extensive landscaping--there is even an outdoor train set if you're into that sort of thing (and my toddler son certainly was). Anne Marie seems to enjoy her duties as Innkeeper and Host--she has sat in the back garden with us chatting as the sun sets and she has been quick to offer helpful suggestions on our travel itinerary. We've had a few different breakfasts--one a bit more ornate than the other--but both absolutely delicious. Anne Marie is a wonderful French chef. Overall, our stays are relaxing, fun and always memorable. For a chic B and B experience, C'est la Vie Inn reigns supreme.

C'est La Vie is beautiful in every detail. The carriage house is a dream. Great way to launch our daughter at U Oregon. We hope to visit again soon.

Everything was quality + elegant + food was great

We felt like we were intruding rather than being a guest as there was a meeting going on. It would have been better if the not to have anyone staying on that evening as we felt uncomfortable. Breakfast was ordinary and we felt rushed to get out. We had hoped for a restful stay and it seemed very tense, instead.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
How bad could the food or service be when two out of five couples who checked out on the same morning went home and rebooked one for October and the other for November and June 2008!
How bad could it be when one couple departing that same morning writes in the guestbook: "A wonderful stay - Great style, comfort, food and ambiance. Hope to come again!
How bad could it be when the guest who wrote the nasty review spent the afternoon sipping wine under the big oak tree in the company of her husband, and a couple of friends.
How bad could it be when the meeting in question was being held in the carriage house, not in any of the common rooms of the house.
How bad could the service be when the next morning my husband offered them a tour of his garden and I took half an hour of my time chatting with her friends and taking pictures of the two couples in front of the B&B.

- Anne-Marie Lizet (innkeeper)

The C’est La Vie Inn is in the center of town and offers a peaceful, elegant and very private high-end hotel experience. I was greeted at the door by Madame Lizet at this beautiful restored Victorian home. She gave me keys to the door and my room. My room was luxurious. I stayed in the Gauguin room with all of Gauguin’s colors and fabrics reminiscent of his paintings. The antique bed featured high quality sheets with a fluffy duvet and blanket beneath it. Needless to say, sleep came effortlessly. Tired after a day of shopping in Eugene, I put my clothes away in authentic antiques and watched some TV. I could either purchase a local area wine outside of my room on an antique bench with glasses and an opener, or go down to the butler’s pantry and select gratis offerings of water, soda, and a variety of snacks if I had a late night craving. (If you are lucky, Anne-Marie will have the cookie jar full of her home made cookies!) The bathroom was a delight – all fixtures were period pieces. All the bottles of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body cream are featured in a lavender scent and laid out on a table along with a hair dryer for your shower. The towels were amply stocked in a gorgeous double-tier chrome holder. Every surface was clean and sparkling. Breakfast was extraordinary. It is served in the grand Victorian dining room which overlooks the extensive gardens, seating areas, and pathways through the grounds. Madame Lizet served a delicious frittata accompanied by excellent coffee, an assortment of fresh fruit- berries, mangos, and bananas, fresh orange juice and a choice of banana bread or French bread. She also had on hand soy milk and other specialty foods. I would certainly recommend this experience to anyone that is seeking out a private escape back to luxury and elegance. A family reunion, a wedding party, or a private place for a single soul or couple would all find C’est La Vie Inn the experience to be remembered and repeated, often.