Mountain Edge Suites at Sunapee, an Ascend Collection Hotel

The beds were the best I've had in a hotel lately, with comfortable mattresses and pillows in excellent shape. Heat worked well, and the heat pumps weren't too noisy. The kitchen appliances were in excellent condition, though the dishwasher hadn't been run before we arrived, so dirty dishes were inside, and there was a cabinet full of used alcohol containers above the fridge. Carpets and furnishings were in good shape, although some furnishings could use updating. The room was described as having two bedrooms, but the separate sleeping area opens right onto the living room and kitchen, so it has no privacy. I also would've liked a second blanket during the sub-zero wind chills. Staff were friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable. The clean lobby and hallways had a welcoming New England lodge feel, and the room was generally well appointed. But the window coverings had big holes and broken mechanisms. Staff said replacements were being purchased. During high winds, the windows leaked and made the room noisy. The wooden toilet seat was cracked and chipped, which felt unsanitary; I reported it, but it wasn't replaced during my stay. There was also an invasion of Asian lady beetles, not ladybugs, which I brought to staff's attention. Some were vacuumed up while we were out, but plenty remained, including a large stink bug flying around the bedroom. The television setup looked awkward: the old CRT's large fireplace alcove was only partly filled by a too-small flat screen, sitting on two visible 4x4 boards. A slightly larger screen could've covered the gap and wires without much extra cost. Breakfast was good for the room price, though there were no muffins either day, just bagels and bread. The packaged sandwiches, fresh fruit, and cereal were welcome. The coffee and tea bar was an excellent addition and available much of the day, so we used it a lot. The property was very nice overall, and I would stay again, but better housekeeping, pest control, and a few health and appearance fixes could make it a 9 or 10.

The hot tub, sauna, and two small pools were just right for unwinding after skiing. The included breakfast was satisfying, and Salt Hill pub and Shanty across the street made it easy to grab something quick. We also drove three miles to Blue Canoe for a great meal. The staff were very hospitable, and the hotel was warm, well run, and had all the conveniences we needed. It's about a five-minute drive from Sunapee ski resort. A great family hotel.

Katerina Tourville, the General Manager, really cares about the guests. At check-in, there was a mix-up with our room, but she went above and beyond to get us the one we thought we'd booked, with an oven. That saved our Thanksgiving stay and dinner, and we truly appreciated it. This was our second stay. The place is clean and roomy enough for our whole family, with a nice breakfast and lots of choices, a pool for the kids, and the friendliest, most helpful staff.

The hallway runs really warm, which was nice when we came back from the pool, though something to know if you like cooler hotels. My family and I love this place. It's perfectly rustic, and the fireplace gives off just the right warmth and ambiance. We'd highly recommend staying here, even if you live nearby and just need a proper break.