Sleep Inn Asheville – Biltmore West

This Sleep Inn is a sharp and simple outpost of the budget chain. From the outside, it's a basic beige and brown box with a covered entrance and an expansive parking lot. The two-story lobby is spacious and light-filled, and a bright green accent wall with white abstract botanical print plus black-and-white artwork throughout add a bit of modern flair. There is a contemporary brown sofa and two armchairs providing a place for guests to gather in the lobby, and the computer station is adjacent. The breakfast room is just off the lobby, and it also features a green accent wall. Interior hallways lead to guest rooms, and the hotel draws a large amount of couples and families, plus a decent number of business travelers as well.

The Sleep Inn West is located near a busy intersection right off Interstate 40. The area is packed with other chain hotels, fast food restaurants, and car dealerships, but don't expect to walk to Asheville's major tourist sights. Biltmore Estate, Biltmore Village, downtown Asheville, and the Botanical Gardens are all about 10 minutes away by car. UNC Asheville, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, the historic Grove Park Inn, and the North Carolina Arboretum are about 15 minutes away. The Laurel Wolf Ski Resort can be reached in less than 30 minutes, and the Asheville Regional Airport is about 20 minutes away. 

By any standard -- budget chain or otherwise -- these rooms are fresh and modern. A bright green accent wall spices up the tan and black color scheme, while black-and-white artwork and dark wood furniture add a modern touch. All rooms include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, single-cup coffeemakers, alarm clock radios, and free Wi-Fi. Mini-fridges, microwaves, cribs, and mountain-view rooms are available if requested in advance. Bathrooms are tiny, but sparkling clean. Sinks have their own space between the sleeping area and the bathroom, and bath products are provided. Bathtubs are available only in handicapped-accessible King Bed Rooms; all other rooms have walk-in showers. Rooms are quiet, which is especially notable given the hotel's location in a busy suburban area. Guests should keep in mind that not all rooms are non-smoking.

The free breakfast buffet includes hot and cold items such as sausages and eggs, cereal, yogurt, waffles, breads, juice, and coffee, and there's a small patio out back for guests who want to dine al fresco. Coffee and cookies are served in the lobby in the afternoon. A business desk in the lobby has a computer and printer for guests to use, and the hotel also provides copy and fax services. The small fitness room has treadmills, an elliptical machine, and a stationary bike in front of a flat-screen TV. A basic meeting room with a window can accommodate up to 25 people, and there is a coin-operated washer and dryer on site. Free copies of USA Today and the Wall Street Journal are available in the lobby. Wi-Fi and parking are both free. Pets are allowed, but there are fees and restrictions.