High Country Motor Lodge

High Country Motor Lodge in Flagstaff, United States, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern comfort, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a distinctive experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for High Country Motor Lodge is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently highlighting its "cool vibe" and comfortable accommodations. Review scores often range from 8.4 to 9.4 out of 10, with specific high ratings for cleanliness (9.0), comfort (9.0), staff (9.0), and location (8.8). Many guests describe it as a "fabulous spin on a traditional motor lodge" and a "modern and trendy but down to earth" hotel.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise the hotel's design and amenities. The reception, game room, and cocktail bar are particularly well-designed, featuring a pleasant color scheme of mostly dark and deep hues. The nostalgic use of cassette tapes and players with mix tapes in the rooms is a quirky and beloved retro touch. Other key highlights include:

• Design & Vibe: A blend of mid-century aesthetics and contemporary lodge style, described as moody, unique, and retro. The 2022 renovation is highly regarded.
• Amenities: A year-round outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, fire pits, and a Nordic-style spa (sauna, hot tub, cool shower) are frequently mentioned as favorites. The property also features a fitness center, game room, and offers free bicycles.
• Communal Areas: The lounge, outdoor areas with fire pits, and the General Store (restaurant/bar/coffee shop) foster a social and welcoming atmosphere.

3. Room Quality

The 111-120 guest rooms and suites, including unique "Cosmic Cottages," are noted for their stylish interiors and comfort. Rooms are described as spacious, clean, and nicely decorated.

• Design: Interiors feature wood, plaid throws, and a "hipster vibe" with retro touches. Rooms are often painted in midnight blue with navy blue wainscoting, complemented by dark wood floors and low furniture, creating an intimate and stylish ambiance.
• Comfort: Guests appreciate the comfy, not-too-soft beds, often with pillowtop mattresses and premium bedding. Good water pressure and drainage in bathrooms are also noted.
• Amenities: Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs with streaming capabilities, mini-fridges, coffee & tea makers, and USB-A and standard chargers. The in-room cassette players with mix tapes are a consistent highlight. Bathrooms are modern and stocked with quality products. Some rooms offer mountain or courtyard views.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel features a modern restaurant called "The General Store," a bar, and a lounge.

• Breakfast: A made-to-order breakfast is available, with full breakfast options offered for a surcharge, including vegan and vegetarian choices.
• Restaurant/Bar: The General Store serves American cuisine, including sandwiches, salads, and Roman-style pizza, and is described as a casual spot in the lobby where guests can also get coffee, bites, and travel essentials. The bar is exceptional, offering craft cocktails and local brews, and is often bustling, even hosting events like wedding receptions. It's been voted as a top bar in Flagstaff. The bar also serves organic, locally-sourced food that is at least 80% farm-to-table.

5. Service & Staff

Guest feedback on hospitality is highly positive, with staff consistently described as friendly, welcoming, and helpful. Many appreciate the outstanding service, noting instances where staff went above and beyond, such as placing families in easy-access rooms or quickly resolving in-room amenity issues.

6. Location & Accessibility

High Country Motor Lodge is situated on historic Route 66 in Flagstaff, offering a convenient location for exploring the area.

• Neighborhood: While surrounded by some industrial areas, the hotel is balanced by its proximity to Flagstaff's foothills.
• Attractions: It's just a 5-minute drive from downtown Flagstaff, which boasts numerous cafés, restaurants, and breweries. Northern Arizona University is a 16-minute walk away. Other nearby attractions include Lowell Observatory (less than 10 minutes drive), Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, and Wheeler Park. The location is ideal for those interested in stargazing due to Flagstaff's dark sky initiatives.
• Transport: The hotel is located 3.1 miles from Flagstaff Pulliam Airport. Free on-site parking is available, including RV/bus/truck parking for a fee.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests generally consider High Country Motor Lodge to be a good value for the cost, especially given the unique amenities and quality of the experience.

• Price Range: Typical nightly rates generally range from $180-$260, depending on the season, room type, and availability. Prices can drop significantly in the low season (e.g., January) and rise in the high season (e.g., December).
• Additional Fees: A resort/amenity fee may apply, and pet-friendly rooms are available for an additional fee.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are largely positive, some recurring issues and criticisms have been noted:

• Noise: Some guests have reported issues with noise from neighboring rooms, suggesting a lack of sound insulation in the renovated motel structure.
• Storage: Limited storage space, such as the absence of a closet or chest of drawers, leaving only a clothing rack, wall hooks, or under-bed space, has been a minor complaint.
• Pool Heating: The outdoor pool is not heated, which can make it too cold for swimming even in warmer months.
• Room Lighting: Some found the dark, moody design in rooms to be too dark, and opening shades compromised privacy.
• Sauna Fee: The fee for using the sauna has been considered expensive by some guests, especially in addition to a resort fee.

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