Circle Of Destination Motel

After booking through Expedia on October 16, I learned I was supposed to contact them 72 hours ahead to get a code. That’s not very convenient when you’re traveling. Check-in turned out to be self-service, but we hadn’t received a code, and no one answered either phone number. We ended up staying across the street at the Prospector Inn instead, where real people were there and helpful. I’d suggest going somewhere else.

The beds and pillows were really uncomfortable, so bring your own pillow if you stay. There’s nobody on site to check you in. If your code doesn’t arrive by email, you’ll need to call and get help. I’d stay somewhere else next time, though I loved Escalante.

The rooms are small, but clean, refurbished, and well maintained. In a town with fewer than 1,000 people, I knew not to expect a five-star big-city hotel, and what I got matched what I expected. There were two sinks, which let my wife have her own space to get ready, lots of TV channels for finding something to watch at night, and a stocked Keurig with hot chocolate the kids enjoyed. We paid a reasonable extra fee to bring our pet, and they provided a dog bowl and sheets for the dog. The cleaning staff we met were super friendly, and we appreciated their cheerful attitude. The location is as good as any other hotel in Escalante for getting to activities in the area.

It’s a very basic place with dated furnishings and decor, and I’m not sure how it ended up with a four-star rating. Still, the room and bathroom were clean, and the shower was spacious with nice tile. The room had beds, a nightstand, and a combo area with a desk, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and drawers. We stayed one night while passing through in October. Contactless check-in was convenient: they sent the access code and room number the night before. But there was literally nobody on site, and while someone could be reached by phone, no one was there in person. I don’t know if that’s because of the season or always the case. Also, few places to eat were open at that time of year, and the cafe mentioned on the website only opened on weekends. I’m not sure I’d stay again, though there are very few options, maybe two, in this small town.