Westcliff Lodge

Westcliff Lodge occupies a bluff above the Columbia River on the western side of Hood River, which gives many rooms a view over the water to the Washington hills. It is a modest, practical lodge rather than a luxury hotel, and it appeals to travellers who want a clean base at a fair price within a few minutes of the town centre. The setting has a pleasant, slightly retro motel-lodge feel, and the river outlook is the main draw, especially at sunset when the light turns the cliffs gold. Rooms are straightforward and vary in size, with options that suit couples, families and small groups. As a lodge-style property, it tends to offer easy access from car to room and the sort of informal atmosphere that suits hikers, cyclists and windsurfers. It lacks the dining rooms and spa of the pricier hotels, but downtown restaurants and breweries are a short drive away, and the Historic Columbia River Highway and its trails start close by.

The bluff location gives you quiet evenings and good views but means you will usually drive into town. Walking is possible for the energetic, but the hill is steep on the return. If you are bringing bikes, ask about secure storage, and if you are arriving late, confirm check-in procedures, since smaller properties may have limited front-desk hours.

Because it sits in the lower price tier, it fills quickly in summer and on festival weekends, so book early. Check the details of each room type, including river views, kitchenettes and bed layouts, and ask about pet policies and parking. Rates are usually well below the boutique options, which leaves more budget for tours, tastings and dinner.

Westcliff Lodge suits budget-minded couples, small families, cyclists and road trippers who want a river view without paying for a spa. For a more social, walkable stay, choose a downtown hotel. For a historic atmosphere, choose the Columbia Gorge Hotel or the Hood River Hotel. If your plan is to spend your days on the mountain, the trails and the water, and you want a simple base to come back to, this lodge does the job.

It helps to arrive with a plan for meals, because the lodge itself is not a dining destination. Pick up picnic supplies from a downtown bakery or a Fruit Loop stand, eat on the bluff at sunset and save restaurant budgets for one or two special dinners. Cyclists can ride down to the waterfront in minutes and use the Historic Highway trail the next morning.