St Christophe Hotel & Spa, an Ascend Collection Hotel

This hotel offers a unique blend of historic charm and a prime lakefront location, making it a memorable destination for many. Its signature feature is the extensive spa facilities, including various pools and hot tubs, which provide a relaxing escape. The setting is particularly appealing to couples seeking a romantic getaway and families looking for recreational activities, especially given its proximity to a scenic bike path. Cyclists also find the location highly convenient. While some aspects of the hotel show their age, the overall ambiance aims for elegance. To ensure a smooth stay, guests are advised to confirm the functionality of specific spa amenities upon arrival and be aware of potential additional fees for certain spa access.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's spa and wellness facilities are a major draw, featuring both indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and saunas. Many guests praise the relaxing atmosphere and the warmth of the outdoor water features, especially the fantastic outdoor jacuzzi. However, feedback is mixed regarding their functionality; some saunas are frequently reported as not working or being in disrepair, and some hot tubs have non-functional jets or are not adequately heated. There are also concerns about the general maintenance of the spa area, with mentions of exposed wiring and ice accumulation. Access to the outdoor spa often incurs extra fees, which surprises some guests. The fitness center is described as small and outdated, with non-working equipment. Wi-Fi connectivity receives varied comments, with some finding it unreliable.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is generally positive, with many rooms described as clean and well-maintained upon arrival. However, the room condition itself receives mixed reviews. While some rooms are noted for being spacious and having comfortable beds, others are described as dated, old, or even dilapidated, with issues like creaking beds, yellowed plastics, and flickering lights. Noise levels can be a significant concern, particularly from loud heaters, street traffic, and other guests in the corridors, indicating inconsistent soundproofing. In-room amenities are sometimes lacking, with guests reporting no hand soap, no coffee cups, or only decaffeinated coffee pods. Some bathrooms are noted to be in poor condition, with leaking toilets or non-functional showers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied feedback. The breakfast is frequently mentioned, with some guests finding it hearty and acceptable, while many others describe it as disappointing, minimal, or even "disgusting," noting issues like cold food, lack of variety, and an extra charge for orange juice. The restaurant for dinner service garners more positive comments, with several guests praising the food quality as delicious and the service as excellent, highlighting attentive waiters. However, some experiences are negative, citing slow service, unappealing decor, or specific dishes being poorly prepared, such as undercooked risotto. Overall, the restaurant experience appears to be inconsistent, with some guests opting to dine elsewhere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major positive. Situated directly on a lakefront, it offers beautiful views and immediate access to a scenic bike path, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy walking. Its central location provides convenient access to local attractions and the downtown area. Guests appreciate the ease of parking on-site, which is generally described as ample and accessible. The proximity to various points of interest, including the zoo and ski resorts, makes it a practical base for exploring the region. The picturesque setting contributes significantly to the overall guest experience, offering a tranquil environment despite being close to urban amenities.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, attentive, and accommodating. Many guests commend the pleasant and efficient demeanor of the team, particularly at the front desk and in the restaurant. However, there are recurring issues with housekeeping, with multiple reports of rooms not being cleaned, towels not replaced, and garbage not emptied during multi-night stays, even when requested. The front desk service, while often friendly, sometimes lacks knowledge regarding hotel facilities or local information, and some guests report unhelpful responses to complaints. The hotel's advertised pet-friendly service also receives mixed reviews, with some guests feeling discriminated against by certain staff members despite adhering to policies.

Additional Information
A significant recurring theme in guest reviews is the hotel's maintenance issues and its general age. Many guests note that while the property has a charming exterior, the interior, including rooms and some common areas, appears dated and in need of substantial renovation. This includes observations of worn furniture, broken fixtures, and a general sense of neglect. Furthermore, guests frequently express frustration over extra fees, particularly for access to the outdoor spa facilities, which many feel should be included in the room rate, especially given the overall cost of the stay. Experiences with Tuango packages are often negative, with guests feeling that the value promised does not align with the services received. Some guests also report issues with room key access, requiring multiple trips to the front desk.