Alpine Motel

I booked two nights and left after the first, then gladly paid for another hotel down the highway. The sheets seemed clean, but there were urine spots by the toilet and dust and dirt in every corner. The bed was rock hard, with a pillow barely an inch thick. I can’t imagine anyone over 25 sleeping there and walking normally the next day. And I don’t believe all the glowing reviews are real.

The rooms are roomy and clean, with the basics like a microwave and fridge. You can get coffee in the office, and there’s an ice machine conveniently placed in the middle of the motel. It’s less than two minutes from the I 81 exit, but there’s hardly any interstate noise. There’s a grassy area of about two acres, with three mature shade trees and a pasture along the edge. One odd detail: an old little cemetery is tucked away in a corner of the property, out of sight unless you walk over there. I was told the motel goes back to the 1960s and was started by a Swiss family, which is where “Alpine” came from. For the price, it’s good value, especially given the bed bug, cleanliness, guest, and repair problems I’ve seen at many other budget motels in the area.

I’ve stayed at this retro motel a couple of times and found it clean, pleasant, and affordable. Being able to park right by the door is handy, and the mountain view is lovely. It’s very basic, with a fridge, TV, and microwave, but that’s enough for me. The service can feel a bit bare. If you want a warm greeting at check-in and a “thanks for staying, come back” at checkout, you may want to look elsewhere. Otherwise, I have no complaints. It’s right off the interstate in Abingdon, VA.

For a clean, quiet, comfortable room at a good price, this older motel is worth considering. It’s only 1/4 mile from Interstate 81, but there’s very little traffic noise. The amenities are basic. If you’re looking for the Hilton, book the Hilton. I’d stay here again.