Ramada by Wyndham Ottawa On The Rideau

The hotel's most distinctive feature is its direct access to and stunning views of the Rideau River, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat that evokes a camp/resort vibe. This makes it an ideal choice for nature lovers and couples seeking a tranquil escape, as well as families and pet owners who appreciate the outdoor space and amenities. Guests frequently commend the friendly staff and the overall cleanliness of the property, contributing to a comfortable stay. While many rooms offer spacious and well-appointed accommodations, some guests note that certain areas are in need of updates. The hotel's convenient proximity to the airport also makes it a suitable option for airport travelers needing a comfortable layover. For an enhanced experience, it is advisable to request a room with a river view, particularly those located in the newer buildings, to fully enjoy the serene surroundings and minimize potential noise from other areas.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests generally appreciate the range of facilities available, enhancing their stay. The outdoor pool is frequently praised for being warm and clean, making it a hit with families and children. While a hot tub and sauna are available, their operational status can be inconsistent, with some guests reporting them out of service or in need of maintenance. A fitness center is on-site, though some equipment may be dated. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi which is generally reliable. Many rooms are equipped with convenient amenities such as a coffee maker, microwave, and mini fridge. The property also offers ample parking, often allowing guests to park directly outside their rooms, adding to convenience. For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats are available for use on the river, providing a unique recreational opportunity.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied, reflecting different room types. Many guests consistently praise the cleanliness of their rooms, describing them as spacious and well-maintained, particularly in renovated sections. The beds are frequently noted for being comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, often complemented by thick pillows and nice sheets. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues with noise levels, particularly from upper floors due to thin walls, and occasionally from the road or a nearby water pump generator. Some rooms, especially in older buildings, are described as dated or having a musty carpet smell, with instances of damaged vinyl floors. Bathrooms are often mentioned as being small or congested, with some reporting no hot water or crooked mirrors. In-room amenities like coffee makers, microwaves, and mini fridges are appreciated.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast that receives mixed but generally positive feedback. Most guests find the breakfast to be simple but good, providing a decent selection of hot items such as eggs and sausages, along with breads, pancakes, and coffee. The breakfast staff are often commended for their attentiveness in keeping items replenished. However, some guests note that the variety can be limited and repetitive for longer stays, with food sometimes not being hot enough or items like sausages tasting artificial. While a coffee machine might occasionally be out of order, a pot of coffee is usually available. The on-site restaurant, the River Lounge, receives praise for its delicious food and flavorful dishes, with many guests enjoying their dinner experiences there.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant draw for many guests, primarily due to its picturesque setting directly on the Rideau River, offering a peaceful and scenic environment. It is conveniently situated near the airport, making it a practical choice for travelers with early flights or layovers, and a shuttle service is available, though its operating hours should be confirmed in advance. While not in the immediate downtown area, the hotel provides easy access to downtown Ottawa by car, typically a short drive away. Guests appreciate the ample parking available, often allowing for direct access to rooms. However, some reviews mention that the surrounding traffic can be heavy, particularly during rush hour, and that there is a lack of nearby amenities or restaurants within walking distance, necessitating a vehicle for exploration.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many reviews highlight the professional and welcoming demeanor of the front desk team, contributing to a positive first impression and quick check-in and check-out processes. Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as providing extra coffee packs or assisting with room changes. However, feedback on specific services can be inconsistent; some guests report issues with room service not being performed or amenities not being restocked, and a few mention unhelpful night staff or an annoyed airport driver. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall sentiment points to a dedicated team committed to providing good service, often going above and beyond to assist guests.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, a feature highly appreciated by guests traveling with animals, who value the large lawn areas for their pets. However, the property is currently undergoing renovations and construction, which some guests note can lead to noise, dust, and an overall "rundown" appearance in certain areas, impacting views and the general ambiance. This ongoing work contributes to a "motel" feel for some, as many rooms have outside access rather than internal hallways, and there is a general lack of elevators in some buildings, which can be inconvenient for guests with luggage or strollers. Issues with security deposits and their refunds have been reported by some guests, including complications with payment methods. Additionally, some rooms may experience noise from a water pump generator located outside.