Earnslaw Lodge

This hotel is highly regarded for its spectacular lake and mountain views, which many guests describe as breathtaking and postcard-like, especially from rooms facing the lake. Its spacious rooms are a consistent highlight, providing ample space for relaxation and even dining. The hotel's convenient location is ideal for sightseers and active travelers, being within easy walking distance of the town center and local attractions. While the property is often noted for its dated appearance, guests generally find it clean and comfortable, offering good value. For families and couples seeking a scenic and practical base for exploring, the hotel offers a comfortable stay. To maximize your experience, it is highly recommended to book a room with a lake view, as this is consistently cited as the hotel's most compelling feature.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently appreciate the practical laundry facilities available on-site, which include washing machines, dryers, and ironing equipment, proving very convenient for longer stays. Many rooms are equipped with a useful kitchenette, featuring a microwave, kettle, toaster, and basic cooking supplies, allowing guests to prepare simple meals. While some kitchenettes lack a sink, staff are noted for replacing dirty dishes daily. Parking is available and generally free, though some guests find the spaces limited or tight, especially during busy periods. The Wi-Fi connectivity receives mixed feedback, with several guests reporting it to be slow or unreliable, which can impact online activities. Some rooms also feature a balcony, offering a pleasant outdoor space, particularly those with lake views.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is consistently praised by guests, contributing to a pleasant stay. Rooms are widely described as spacious, providing ample living area. Feedback on bed comfort is mixed; while many guests find the beds comfortable, some report them to be too soft, too hard, or lumpy, particularly when two beds are joined. The dated decor and overall tired appearance of the property are frequently mentioned, with many suggesting that rooms are in need of refurbishment. Bathroom condition also varies, with some guests noting issues like low shower pressure, dripping toilets, or ill-fitting toilet seats, though others find them clean and functional. Noise levels can be an issue for some, with reports of sounds from neighboring rooms or corridor radiators, while other guests find their rooms quiet. Heating is generally effective, though some guests mention difficulty controlling room temperature.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly desirable central location, making it very accessible for guests. It is within easy walking distance to the town center, typically a 10 to 15-minute stroll, allowing convenient access to shops, restaurants, and the lakeside promenade. A significant advantage is the bus stop located almost directly outside the property, providing easy access to public transport for exploring further afield or reaching the airport. While the walk to town is generally pleasant, some guests note that the return journey involves an uphill walk. The proximity to attractions like Queenstown Park and the Botanic Gardens is also appreciated. Some guests have noted ongoing road works in the immediate vicinity, which can occasionally cause minor inconvenience or noise.

Staff & Service
Most guests praise the friendly staff and their helpful staff demeanor, highlighting their willingness to assist with various requests, from early check-ins to local recommendations and laundry assistance. The check-in process is generally described as smooth, with clear instructions provided for late arrivals. However, there are notable instances of highly negative experiences, where some guests reported rude or aggressive interactions with staff, including issues with privacy and perceived unenthusiasm. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall sentiment leans towards appreciative comments regarding the staff's attentiveness and efforts to ensure a comfortable stay, such as replacing dishes for rooms without a sink.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the property does not have an elevator, meaning luggage must be carried up stairs, which can be challenging for some. For rooms with a lake view, the shared balcony design means that privacy can be limited, as it connects multiple rooms. A significant concern raised by some guests involves privacy and unauthorized entry into rooms, with one detailed account describing a staff member entering a room through an internal, unlocked door without permission, causing considerable distress. This highlights a critical area for improvement regarding guest privacy and security protocols.