Best Western Mountain Lodge at Banner Elk

This value hotel from the Best Western chain makes a cozy base for skiing holidays and other types of leisure travel. True to its name, the property has a rustic mountain lodge feel. Its inviting interiors are peppered with hunting details like wall-mounted deer heads and moose figurines. The exposed stone fireplace commands the lobby, which mixes warm wooden elements with tartan armchairs and leather couches. There are hints of Scottish influence here and there, like bagpipes hanging above the fireplace and UK flags adorning the hallways. Most guests who stay here are leisure travelers, though the hotel also offers facilities that attract some business travelers. Visitors of nearby Lees-McRae College also stay here.

The hotel is situated off the Tynecastle Highway on the outskirts of the small town of Banner Elk. It's surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, but there's not much in the immediate area. There are several dining options, shops, and services like a post office in the town center, about a three-minute drive away. The area is a popular skiing destination, and there are two ski resorts nearby: Sugar Mountain is a five-minute drive, while Beech Mountain is 18 minutes away. Area attractions include Grandfather Mountain (20-minute drive), the Land of Oz theme park (22-minute drive), and the Mile High Swinging Bridge (24-minute drive). Lees-McRae College is a three-minute drive away. Elk River Airport is a six-minute drive from the hotel; Tri-Cities Airport is an hour and 15 minutes away; and Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a bit over a two-hour drive.

Decor is typically chainlike and dated, but the rooms are spacious and clean. Beige carpets and cream walls are accented by crimson bed runners, pillows, and curtains. Wooden furniture is a standard style and includes nightstands and either tables or work desks with ergonomic chairs. All rooms have either armchairs or couches. Suites feature living room areas with couches. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, DVD players, microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, irons/ironing board, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are small and in need of updates. They're equipped with shower/tub combos; toiletries and wall-mounted hairdryers are provided. Jacuzzi Suites have whirlpool tubs and separate walk-in showers.

The hotel offers a handful of features that add value to a stay here. There's a heated outdoor pool that's open seasonally, as well as a small fitness room equipped with a handful of dated cardio and weight machines. A free breakfast is served in a pleasant dining room and includes hot items like eggs and breakfast meats, as well as breads, cereals, fruit, yogurt, juice, and coffee -- but it gets mixed reviews from guests. There's also a free coffee station in the lobby, as well as a popcorn machines and communal microwave. Other amenities include meeting and event space, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and free on-site parking. A computer is available for guest use, and the hotel offers printing, photocopying, and faxing services.