Super 8 by Wyndham Athabasca AB

The hotel aims to provide a comfortable stay, with its pool and complimentary breakfast often highlighted as key amenities. While many guests appreciate the generally clean rooms and comfortable beds, feedback on the overall experience is notably mixed, particularly concerning staff service and the hotel's somewhat dated appearance. The property is often described as quiet, though some guests report significant noise levels. It caters well to families looking for recreational facilities, pet owners due to its accommodating policy, and business travelers seeking a convenient base. To ensure a smoother visit, guests are advised to confirm the operational status of amenities like the pool and ice machines prior to arrival, and to proactively clarify all potential charges or deposits upfront to prevent unexpected issues during their stay.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a swimming pool and hot tub, which are a major draw for many guests, particularly families who enjoy the waterslide and recreational opportunities. However, a significant number of reviews indicate that the pool is frequently closed for maintenance, under strict rules, or not working, leading to disappointment. The hot tub also receives mentions of being non-functional at times. Guests note the presence of a fitness center, though some describe it as small and in need of upgrades. The ice machine is a recurring point of frustration, often reported as out of order. While Wi-Fi is generally reliable, the elevator has been described as temperamental, requiring restarts. The convenience of an attached A&W restaurant is a positive, and parking is generally ample, though some find it poorly lit.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. Many guests commend the clean rooms, comfortable beds, and high-quality bedding, often ensuring a restful night's sleep. Some rooms are noted for their spaciousness. However, a notable number of reviews highlight issues such as stained carpets, sticky marks, dust, and even reports of blood-stained sheets or a persistent smoke smell. Some bathrooms are described as needing attention, with mentions of mold or sludge in showers. The overall impression for some is that rooms are dated, worn, or dark. Noise is a frequent concern, stemming from the highway, other guests, or late-night maintenance, impacting the quietness of the stay. Shower pressure is inconsistent, and in-room amenities like coffee or tissue are occasionally found lacking.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's complimentary breakfast generally receives positive remarks, with many guests praising its quality, variety, and convenience. Options often include a hot breakfast buffet, fresh baked pastries, and a juice bar, alongside a 24-hour coffee and tea station in the lobby. However, some guests express dissatisfaction, citing the breakfast as not very good, with reports of leftovers or even spoiled food. Portions can be perceived as stingy, and the breakfast service often ends early, typically by 9 AM, which can be inconvenient for those wishing to sleep in. The coffee quality is also a point of mixed feedback, with some finding it undrinkable while others appreciate a good machine. The attached A&W restaurant provides an alternative dining option for guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, particularly for its proximity to the highway, offering easy access for travelers. However, this proximity also contributes to noise levels in some rooms, which can be a drawback for light sleepers. While the hotel is situated within reach of local amenities, some guests note its position up a large hill from the main town, which can make walking to and from the town center less appealing. The surrounding area is sometimes described as industrial. Parking is readily available and often close to the entrance, though some guests have found the lighting in the parking area to be insufficient. Overall, the location serves as a practical stopover point for those traveling by car, balancing accessibility with some environmental drawbacks.

Staff & Service
Feedback on the hotel's staff and service is highly polarized. Many guests praise the friendly staff, describing them as helpful, welcoming, and professional, contributing to a positive experience. Some appreciate the quick check-in process and the attentiveness of housekeeping. However, a significant number of reviews report extremely negative interactions, citing staff as rude, unprofessional, unhelpful, dismissive, and even threatening. There are frequent complaints about language barriers, slow check-in/out times, and a perceived lack of customer service. Issues include unexpected charges, refusal of basic requests like extra towels, and a general feeling of being ignored or mistreated. These negative experiences, often attributed to specific individuals, significantly impact guest satisfaction and are a recurring theme in the reviews.

Additional Information
Several important details emerge from guest reviews that don't fit neatly into other categories. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by many animal owners, though some note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas nearby. A recurring issue involves unexpected charges or high deposits upon check-in, often leading to frustration and disputes, particularly when guests feel overcharged or that their payment methods are mishandled. The ice machine is frequently reported as out of order, requiring guests to seek ice from the front desk. Some guests have also noted a lack of readily available drinking water, being directed to purchase it from vending machines. Furthermore, there are mentions of a general feeling of insecurity, with reports of personal items being disturbed or a perception of being watched.