Hotel Alila

This hotel offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking a practical stay, particularly appealing to short-stay guests, ski enthusiasts, and nature lovers due to its exceptional proximity to walking trails and a river. While many guests appreciate its convenient location and the friendly demeanor of some staff members, the hotel presents a highly mixed experience. It is often described as a basic, no-frills accommodation, best suited for travelers prioritizing affordability and access to outdoor activities over extensive amenities or modern comforts. Some guests highlight the spaciousness of the rooms and comfortable beds, suggesting a decent base for rest. However, recurring themes of maintenance issues and cleanliness concerns indicate that expectations should be managed. To ensure a more comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm specific room features upon booking and be prepared for a more independent, Airbnb-like experience given the often unattended reception.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities and amenities receive mixed feedback, with many guests noting a general lack of modern conveniences. A recurring complaint is the absence of coffee makers and irons in rooms, requiring guests to seek these elsewhere or do without. While some rooms are equipped with gas fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs, their functionality can be inconsistent, and the presence of a communal hot tub is highly disputed among reviews, with many stating it is not available despite being advertised. Guests frequently report issues with non-functional or absent air conditioning, outdated televisions, and general disrepair of locks, doors, and windows, raising concerns about security and comfort. A microwave is available in a common area for guest use. Additionally, the Wi-Fi is often described as open and unsecured, which may be a concern for guests prioritizing digital privacy.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly polarized. While many guests report finding their rooms clean and appreciate the comfortable beds and mattresses, a substantial number of reviews highlight significant issues. Recurring complaints include the presence of various bugs, such as bed bugs, spiders, and beetles, along with widespread mold in bathrooms, on shower curtains, and even on ceilings. Guests frequently mention unclean carpets, dirty bathrooms, and pervasive bad odors, including cigarette smoke and a general mustiness. Noise is a common concern due to thin walls, allowing disturbances from neighboring rooms and a busy road. Some rooms also suffer from maintenance issues like broken windows, malfunctioning patio door locks, or inoperable blinds. Additionally, pillows are often described as small or subpar, and hot water supply can be inconsistent, impacting the overall guest experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently praised as a major highlight, described as very good and exceptionally convenient for various activities. Guests appreciate its easy access to the Morin Heights center and nearby Saint-Sauveur, as well as a range of local amenities including grocery stores, pharmacies, bakeries, and gas stations, many within walking distance. A significant draw is the hotel's direct proximity to nature, with a river and extensive walking trails situated immediately behind the property, making it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and bikers. Furthermore, it is highly recommended for ski trips, being just minutes away from the mountain. On-site parking is available and generally considered adequate, adding to the overall accessibility for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is notably polarized among guests. Many reviews commend the staff, particularly those at reception, as friendly, helpful, accommodating, and courteous, often highlighting their welcoming demeanor and willingness to provide local information. Some guests even reported positive experiences such as early check-in or room upgrades. However, a significant portion of reviews describe rude, unresponsive, or dismissive service, especially from management when addressing issues like room conditions or refund requests. There are frequent complaints about the front desk being unattended for extended periods, leading to feelings of insecurity and difficulty in obtaining basic services like fresh towels or toilet paper. Some guests also reported being overcharged or feeling that management was deceptive in their dealings.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important details that may impact their stay. The hotel has a pet policy, though some guests reported an unadvertised fee for their animals. A common theme is the limited reception presence, which can lead to feelings of reduced security due to unattended external doors and a general lack of immediate assistance. This also affects services like daily housekeeping, as rooms are typically cleaned only after departure, requiring guests to manage their own needs for longer stays. The Wi-Fi is frequently noted as unsecured, which may be a concern for those requiring digital privacy. Furthermore, the hotel often requires full payment at check-in, a policy that surprised some guests. Overall, the experience is often likened to an Airbnb-like experience rather than a traditional hotel, emphasizing self-sufficiency and basic service.