We booked this hotel for a last-minute trip for four nights at the beginning of September. The reviews were very good, so we took a chance that this would be a nice place to stay for our first vacation in over a year. We were looking for something serene and romantic. What a find!
After a short wait in the lobby during which we enjoyed fresh-baked cookies, a friendly receptionist checked us in, told us we could select our complimentary beverage any time, and provided tips about local restaurants. Once to our room, we were surprised to find a large room with a step-down sitting area with a fireplace and a gorgeous view of the river. Our private patio had a small table and two chairs. Had there been other guests, the patio would not have been especially private, but at this time of the year, we rarely saw anyone else on their patio or deck (2nd floor).
The room was clean, spacious and very quiet. The only time we heard other people or room noises was on the first day from a room above us when we heard what sounded like either an exhaust fan or Jacuzzi tub. It didn't last long and didn't really disturb us.
The bed was really comfortable, firm but not hard. The rain shower head was nice and water pressure and temperature excellent. Everything felt clean and up-to-date.
Breakfast was sparse but good. Every day they brought in from a local bakery a specialty croissant-sandwich type entree with cheese and spinach or ham and one with something sweet, like apple filling. There were hard-boiled eggs, fresh yogurt parfaits, quick-cook oatmeal, muffins, fresh, whole fruit, orange juice, coffee, hot cocoa, and tea. (Though the tea was loose tea with no tea strainers in sight.) That's about it - no cold cereal or toast. What was there was good, but for those wanting more choices, or with kids, it probably would not be adequate. Also, there were no vending machines, so don't count on them for cold drinks or snacks. They do keep coffee out all day, which is nice.
The staff was one of the best things about this place. With one exception, everyone was over-the-top friendly and helpful. As someone else pointed out, it felt a little like staying at a B&B in the sense that staff felt invested in whether you were having a good time and had everything you needed. The one exception was a man at the front desk who seemed unapproachable. The women at the front desk would always greet us and chat with us whenever we walked through the lobby, but he didn't. When I did ask a question, he was polite enough, but compared to everyone else, he seemed grumpy. Also, whether a coincidence or not, when he was on the front desk, we never saw any fresh cookies in the lobby.
I did not like that they stock plastic cups in their rooms. Glass would be a much better choice environmentally. I borrowed some glasses from the breakfast room for use during our stay. They do use large, refillable soap, shampoo, conditioner and lotion containers rather than small, disposable bottles. These products were very nice.
The location along the river is good. There were at least two restaurants within easy walking distance. For everything else, a car would be necessary. The inn is located along a sidewalk/walking/biking path on the street side so you can easily get in some exercise. You cannot access the river from their property.
This hotel was exactly what we were looking for. For those wanting lots of amenities and activities provided by the hotel, this would not be the place. For those wanting a quiet place to relax, sleep and enjoy a beautiful river view, this is perfect. We will definitely stay here again if we get the opportunity.
