Athabasca Hotel

This historic hotel offers a unique and charming experience, distinguished by its vintage aesthetic and deep roots in Jasper's past, making it a true landmark since 1929. Its central location is a significant draw, placing guests at the heart of the town. The hotel is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate historical buildings and a nostalgic atmosphere, as well as budget-conscious guests seeking affordable accommodation without compromising on cleanliness or location. It's also ideal for sightseers who want to explore Jasper on foot. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness and the friendly, accommodating nature of its staff. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is advisable to be aware that the hotel does not have an elevator, and some rooms feature shared bathroom facilities, which is part of its unique, old-world charm.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel maintains its historical integrity, which means certain modern amenities are not present. Most notably, there is no elevator, requiring guests to use stairs to access upper floors, which can be a consideration for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. Many rooms feature a sink within the room, but a significant number of accommodations utilize shared bathrooms located down the hall. While this is a unique aspect, guests consistently report these shared facilities are exceptionally clean and well-maintained. The hotel does not typically offer air conditioning in rooms, which some guests found challenging during warmer periods, though fans are sometimes provided. In-room mini-fridges and coffee makers are also generally not available.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the hotel for its exceptional cleanliness, noting that both private and shared bathrooms are spotless. Rooms, while sometimes described as small, are generally found to be cozy and well-maintained, with a distinct vintage charm. The beds are consistently praised for being very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, some guests experienced noise levels from hallways, other guests, or the hotel's bar/nightclub, particularly in rooms located directly above these areas. The absence of air conditioning was a recurring point, with rooms occasionally feeling uncomfortably warm. Despite this, the overall impression of room comfort is positive, especially for those who appreciate the hotel's historic character.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel features a popular on-site restaurant and bar, O'Shea's, which receives high praise for its food quality and lively atmosphere. Guests particularly enjoy the breakfast offerings, with many describing it as the "best in town," highlighting dishes like Benedicts and waffles. The portions are often noted as generous, and the coffee is well-regarded. The bar area is a favored spot for both guests and locals, offering a good selection of beverages and a welcoming environment for dinner or casual drinks. The convenience of having quality dining options directly within the hotel is a significant advantage for many visitors.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location right in the heart of Jasper, making it incredibly convenient for guests to explore the town. It is within easy walking distance of numerous shops, restaurants, and local attractions. Its proximity to the train station and other amenities like grocery stores and laundromats is also highly valued. For those traveling by car, the hotel offers free parking at the back, which is a significant benefit in a busy tourist town. This prime location allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the Jasper experience without needing to rely on transportation.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlight the positive interactions with front desk personnel, who are described as welcoming and efficient during the check-in process. The service in the on-site restaurant and bar is also frequently commended, with staff members noted for their attentiveness and ability to create a pleasant atmosphere. Housekeeping is often mentioned for maintaining the hotel's high standards of cleanliness. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing excellent customer service significantly contributes to a positive guest experience.

Additional Information
A key characteristic of this historic hotel is the absence of an elevator, meaning guests must navigate stairs to reach their rooms. This is a consistent point of feedback and should be considered by all visitors, especially those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns. The hotel embraces a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by guests traveling with animals. Some rooms are situated above the hotel's lively bar or nightclub, which can result in noise until late hours, particularly on weekends. The lobby features a unique collection of taxidermy animals, contributing to the hotel's distinct vintage ambiance, though this aesthetic may not appeal to all guests.