Occasionally, if we’re lucky, something crappy turns into something pretty darn good. This is what happened to my husband and me on our recent trip to Alberta for a family reunion.
After discovering the Airbnb we booked was a scam (story in separate blog) we were left scrambling to find a place to stay in Sundre, Alberta. Don’t feel bad if you haven’t heard of Sundre, most people haven’t. Located about 90 minutes northwest of Calgary, there isn’t much to do or see in Sundre. Despite this, the best hotel in town charges $169 a night for room. A price we were unwilling to pay. (The fraudulent Airbnb was $100/night.)
We dropped into a local pub to lick our wounds and deal with Airbnb. While there we mentioned our dilemma to our server. She suggested we check out the motel located behind the pub. She informed us that it wasn’t fancy, but had been recently renovated, was clean, and a good price. We were already late for the reunion luncheon and desperate to find a place, so we took her advice.
As promised, the Chinook Country Inn was found directly behind the pub, was not fancy, but clearly had a fresh coat of paint. When the proprietor took our ID and saw our address, he noted that he used to live in our neighbourhood in Coquitlam, BC. I love coincidences like that, and instantly felt we had chosen the right place. When he told us the room was only $69 a night I was even happier.
What we got for our $69 was some of the best value for dollars spent I have experienced in a long time. The room was a good size with lots of room to roam around the two new queen-size beds and accommodate a new condo size refrigerator, coffee machine, microwave oven, a dresser, and a desk. They even included coffee and microwave popcorn. The bathroom sink, counter and mirror were open to the open room with a doorway separating the toilet and shower for privacy. They supplied more than enough towels and washcloths, as well as soap and shampoo.
For me, next to the new beds, the best thing about the room was the new laminate floors. Flooring like this is excellent for motels because it is cleaner and so much more sanitary than carpets.
Our $69 included breakfast which again was not fancy but filled the belly with its selection of cereal, toast, pastries, fruit, and coffee and tea.
The location was convenient; the building was clean, quiet, and tastefully decorated; the staff was friendly and available; and the price was terrific. For anyone operating a motel or hotel in a small town take notes, The Chinook Country Inn has the recipe for success.
Chinook Country Inn
120 2 Street SW
Sundre, AB T0M 1X0
Note: I am in no way affiliated with Chinook Country Inn. I have not been compensated in any way or form to write this review.