Faraway Martha's Vineyard

We’d planned to stay at Faraway for 5 nights, but ended up extending twice and were there for 11 straight nights. I really enjoy staying there. Yesterday, after checking out and reaching the Steamship Authority, we found that all the boats had been cancelled, so I called the hotel’s reservation desk and booked the same room again.

The decor felt stylish and welcoming, and the lobby was the most beautiful. The whole hotel has an amazing smell, whatever room you’re in. Bath products were top-notch, and I’ve never seen a mini bar and arrival snacks stocked better. The front desk crew were really attentive. I can’t wait to come back when it’s warmer and enjoy the amenities.

We’ve been visiting the Vineyard in season and off season for 25 years, and Faraway is beautifully appointed inside and out. Our suite looked out over the harbor and had really comfortable couches. Right in the heart of Edgartown village, the location is convenient and fun for all ages. The lobby has funky opulence without feeling ostentatious, and they host cozy wine and treats there every night. The staff were the best, from the friendly, positive front desk to the very helpful manager.

The location is great and the property is beautiful, but the service doesn’t match what we paid. We were still paying $900 a night even as the season was winding down, and the hotel seemed clearly understaffed. Our room wasn’t “refreshed,” their term, each day, and there was no bell staff to help with luggage, so I had to carry our bags up three narrow flights of stairs. The room also fell short: I expected better than a tub with a curtain for a shower, and it was noisy every morning. Some details just didn’t make sense. Why put plates and silverware in a room with no microwave? Why is ice so hard to get, and why isn’t there a breakfast or coffee station? Parking was terrible too. You hesitate to take your car out because you might lose your spot. I know I’m rambling, but this hotel was a huge disappointment.