Carmel Lodge

The bed was very comfortable, and our room was spacious and quiet. Carmel Lodge is right in the heart of Carmel, so restaurants, cafes, shops, and Carmel Beach are walkable, with Monterey a short drive away. The rooms have a traditional look. After visiting Carmel a few times, I’ve noticed that style at many local hotels, and it’s charming. I did miss having a coffee maker, especially, and a refrigerator in the room. Those seem like standard hotel amenities, and it would be nice to have them in every room given the price. Even so, we enjoyed our stay. Carmel is truly wonderful.

We arrived around 11:30 at night and, when we asked about a vending machine, the owner offered to make us tea or coffee. They also bring a small continental breakfast right to your room. We accidentally left something behind, and the front desk staff went out of their way to find us and keep it safe. I was really impressed and would highly recommend staying here. It’s a cute little lodge in the heart of Carmel, with plenty of guest parking. The room was very clean, if a little small, and the service was the best part.

The room was comfortable, and the bathrooms have a more modern, spa-like feel. The shower spray was great, which I always notice and enjoy. Breakfast in the morning was plenty to get the day started, and the rooftop patio was a nice spot to visit. I liked the hotel's appearance and location, just a few quick blocks from town. I’ll definitely come back.

We had booked a Queen room for two nights, but the room we got seemed to be a Small Queen at best based on its size and description. It was dark, gloomy, smelly, and right beside reception and the stairs to many other rooms. The view was of the car park, not the quiet street described. We asked to move straight away but were told that wasn’t possible until night two. This was my husband’s birthday weekend, booked nine months ahead, and we’d travelled 5,000 miles to enjoy Carmel, so we were especially disappointed. People came back to their rooms late, and from 6am cars started up with headlights shining directly into our room. We barely slept. The second night was more comfortable after we moved to a King room, though the hotel generally needs updating, especially the bathrooms. At checkout the receptionist wouldn’t offer a reduction or acknowledge the problem. I’m sorry to be so negative, but I’m surprised this hotel has so many good reviews.