The Blue Anchor at Houghton Lake

The room itself was clean, but the smells and the bed made the stay miserable. With the AC running, the whole place smelled like a cat had been living in the vents. We turned it off and opened a window, only to get a strong natural gas smell. We also had to hide the cheap fragrance stick right away because it was making us sick. Using hot water brought a rotten egg smell through the place. I’m guessing nobody has pulled the water heater’s anode rod. The sheets and towels were soaked in very strong, cheap fabric softener, so anyone sensitive to scents should be prepared. The bed had a thick foam topper over a mattress we sank into, and we both woke with sore backs, like we’d slept on rocks. There was no staff to speak of, literally none. The rushed remodel look, like décor from a Walmart clearance aisle, set the tone. The bathroom setup was especially awkward, with a low, tiny commode about two inches from the shower wall. They’ve tried to dress the place up, but between the odors, layout, and everything else, it still feels like putting lipstick on a pig.

The best surprise was the HOUSE in the middle of a hotel. It can sleep 10-12 people, with a full kitchen on the first floor and a kitchenette with full-size appliances on the second. The bathrooms are very nice. We took the last room they had, with two sets of bunk beds and a roll-out bed. It was very clean, and we enjoyed our stay a lot. The house is a 4-minute walk from our family’s place. I talked with the lady cleaning up, and she showed me a few things. We’ll be back soon. Thank you, Blue Anchor, for making our stay fabulous.

My husband and I loved staying here. The whole process was seamless: no on-site staff, payment over the phone, and a door code sent to us, so I didn’t have to carry a key card. We brought a truck and trailer and there was plenty of parking. The room was really clean, with a comfy bed and soft sheets. The bathroom was small but did the job; I would’ve liked a bath mat. Since the floors aren’t carpeted, a broom and dustpan would’ve been handy for sweeping up sand before bed. The host replied promptly and was helpful. I’d absolutely stay again. If you like motels, this place is for you.

Everything in the room worked, and it was clean, quiet, and comfortable, with enough towels and such. It was on the small side. I’ve never stayed somewhere with no one attending, but I’d definitely come back if I’m in the area. My only complaint is that the sink drains really slowly.