The Charles Hotel

The hotel offers a charming and historic retreat, distinguished by its inn-like ambiance and a location that perfectly balances accessibility with tranquility. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional friendliness of the staff, the hotel's prime yet peaceful location, and the high quality of its dining options, which are often a highlight of the stay. Its unique character and non-chain feel make it a memorable choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, sightseers exploring the town's attractions, and golfers due to its proximity to the course. The hotel is also well-suited for wedding guests attending local events. To enhance your experience, consider booking one of the larger rooms or those with a balcony or fireplace, as room sizes and features vary. Guests should also note the absence of an elevator, which is a factor for those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel, while charming, presents a few considerations regarding its facilities and amenities. A notable point for many guests is the absence of an elevator, which can pose a challenge for those with heavy luggage or mobility issues, as rooms are spread across multiple floors. However, the property offers delightful outdoor areas, including patios and verandas, providing serene spots for relaxation, though some guests noted these areas could benefit from minor repairs or refreshing. The hotel features a comfortable lounge and bar where guests can unwind. While there is no on-site fitness center, some guests mentioned access to a gym at a nearby sister property. Free parking is available, though the lot is small and spaces are not always guaranteed. One review also noted the presence of EV charging, adding a modern convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is generally positive, with many rooms described as clean, comfortable, and well-appointed, often featuring a unique charm. However, some guests found certain rooms to be "tired," "dark," or in need of a refresh, with occasional mentions of a musty smell. The beds receive mixed reviews; while many found them comfortable, some reported issues with firmness or sagging. Bathrooms are often praised for being updated and spacious, with good showers and, in some cases, heated floors, though issues like lack of counter space, draftiness, or crumbling steps were noted. Noise levels vary; some rooms are quiet, while others experience disturbances from thin walls, slamming doors, or external sounds. Climate control is a recurring concern, as it is centrally managed, leading to rooms being too cold or hot, and requiring staff assistance to adjust. Some rooms also feature small or outdated TVs, and a few lacked basic amenities like a desk or sufficient storage.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experiences, particularly at the Hob Nob restaurant, consistently receive high praise from guests. Dinner is frequently described as "fantastic," "delicious," and "outstanding," with many appreciating the quality of the food options and the intimate atmosphere. Dishes like mussels, Brussels sprouts, and various main courses are highlighted for their presentation and taste. Breakfast is generally well-regarded as "delicious" and "generous," providing a good start to the day, though some guests noted occasional slow service or concerns about food handling during buffet times. The bar and lounge areas are also popular for evening drinks and a relaxed ambiance. While most feedback is positive, a few guests expressed disappointment with certain dishes being "tasteless" or portions being small, and some experienced significant delays during breakfast service, particularly when the kitchen was busy with larger groups.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of many key attractions. It is conveniently situated near shops, restaurants, theaters, and the lakefronts, making it ideal for exploring the town on foot. Guests appreciate being close to the main downtown area and the Shaw Festival venue. While centrally located, the hotel is also described as being in a quiet area, offering a peaceful retreat away from the busiest parts of town. For those looking to explore further, vineyards are just a short drive away. The hotel offers a shuttle service to sister properties and local restaurants, adding to guest convenience. Parking is available on-site and is free, though the lot is small, and spaces can sometimes be limited, occasionally requiring guests to park on nearby side streets.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel are overwhelmingly praised by guests, consistently described as "amazing," "friendly," "helpful," and "genuine." Many reviewers highlight the staff's attentiveness and willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally reported as smooth and efficient, with staff often escorting guests to their rooms. Guests appreciate the accommodating nature of the team, whether assisting with luggage, scheduling restaurant reservations, or providing shuttle services. While the majority of interactions are positive, a few guests reported isolated instances of unhelpful or rude behavior from certain individuals, particularly regarding room issues or specific requests. However, the overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to providing excellent service significantly enhances the guest experience, making them a standout feature of the property.

Additional Information
Beyond the core amenities, guests should be aware of a few specific details that contribute to the overall experience. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with their animals. A recurring point of feedback concerns the centralized temperature control system, which means guests cannot adjust their room's heating or cooling directly and must request staff assistance for changes, sometimes leading to discomfort. The hotel also utilizes a virtual assistant for guest inquiries, which some found helpful for quick responses, though a few noted it could be overly communicative. Additionally, some guests mentioned that the hotel does not offer daily housekeeping services, but fresh towels and linens are readily available upon request. These unique aspects, while not fitting into other categories, are important for guests to consider when planning their stay.