Graystone Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel

We usually just pass through Boone, but stayed here last night and were so glad we did. Graystone Lodge is a treasure. We’ve had a great experience from Kat (sp?) at reception to Dillon and Michelle on the breakfast crew, and our room was comfortable and spotless. I don’t usually write this much about a hotel, but this Lodge was a step above our normal stays and deserved the time. I’d love to come back for a few days just to relax. It seems like a great fit for families here for college graduations, and there are plenty of summer and winter activities for outdoors-minded travelers. The huge stone fireplace in the breakfast area was crackling while I sat there. With the fresh flowers on the tables, the place really felt welcoming. Dillon and Michelle were sweet, friendly, and happy to answer questions about the area. The free hot breakfast beat most hotel breakfasts we’ve paid extra for. The hot bar had scrambled eggs with omelet add-ons like shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream, link sausage, Mediterranean quiche with a delicious crust, warm bear claws, biscuits and gravy, hash rounds, country ham, and waffles. There was oatmeal and yogurt with toppings including fresh blueberries and strawberries, pastries including Udi's gluten free blueberry muffins, cold cereals, four different juices, whole and sliced fruit, and whole, skim, almond, and oat milk. The bread counter gets fresh bagels and sourdough from a local bakery twice a week. They arrived while we were there, with nine flavors of bagel plus sourdough. I had the cheddar bagel; my hubby had cinnamon raisin with strawberry cream cheese. Delicious. Coffee came with several creamers and Stevia. Our room had two Queen beds and the usual amenities, but Graystone goes further. As a frequent business traveler with back injuries, a good mattress matters most to me, and the office chair comes next. The mattress was firm in a good way, and I slept very comfortably. The mattresses were in encasements on solid pedestal bases, and we always check the mattress and box springs when we first enter a room. These were exceptionally clean. The chair had a solid base and rolled easily. There were plenty of 110V and USB outlets, a sound machine on the nightstand for anyone who needs white noise, and light-up mountain scene lights mounted in the headboards. They provided a Keurig with assorted coffee and tea and a can of Appalachian spring water at no charge. The expected microwave and mini-fridge were there too. The bathroom had ample towels, an accessible roll-in/walk-in shower, and full-size wall-mounted bottles of lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and more. Even the simple touch of "rose" Kleenex added a little class. The hotel also has an indoor pool, fitness center, and a small store with snacks, drinks, and a few local gift-type treasures. I didn’t ask about a business center. First- and second-floor rooms have accessible exterior entrances, there are two elevators, and the luggage carts are in good shape and roll easily. I liked the transition from carpet to tile near the second-floor entrance, which could help you get your bearings in a no- or low-light evacuation. I experienced that at a hotel years ago.

We’ll stay here again. The location was good, and the room was very clean and spacious. The young staff at check-in were professional, and I was surprised by how good breakfast was, with a great choice of hot and cold foods. I also like that coffee is always available in the lobby.

The air conditioning was the one small downside. Even when I tried to lower the temperature a little, it blasted cold air, which could be uncomfortable overnight. Otherwise, it was a lovely stay at a stylish, cozy boutique hotel. The room was clean and comfortable, breakfast was great, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I’d happily return.

We took a spur-of-the-moment trip with my wife and couldn’t have chosen a better spot than Graystone Lodge in Boone, NC. The hotel is beautiful, and the staff were attentive and went above and beyond with their hospitality. It’s close to great food options and some fantastic hiking spots, which made our quick getaway feel special and refreshing. Our room was spotless, safe, and incredibly comfortable. The beds were comfy, and the whole atmosphere made it easy to relax. Highly recommend Graystone Lodge for a clean, welcoming, memorable stay in Boone.