Escape to Paradise: Tallman Hotel's Upper Lake Charm

Tallman Hotel Upper Lake (CA) United States

Escape to Paradise: Tallman Hotel's Upper Lake Charm

Escape to Paradise: Tallman Hotel - Where Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort (and Sometimes, a Few Hiccups!)

Okay, so I just got back from a stay at the Tallman Hotel, and let me tell you, the name Escape to Paradise? Yeah, they’re aiming high. Did it live up to the hype? Well, buckle up buttercup, because this review is going to be less "glowing brochure" and more "honest, slightly disheveled traveler's tales." Let's dive in, shall we?

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Description: Honest and detailed review of the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake, California. Exploring accessibility, amenities, dining, cleanliness, and overall experience, with a focus on the hotel's charm, potential areas for improvement, and a few personal anecdotes.

(Now, Let's Get Messy!)

First impressions? The drive through Upper Lake is… well, let’s just say it sets the scene for the rural charm. Think less bustling metropolis, more… well, lake town. This isn't a sleek, corporate hotel; it's a place. Located on Soda Bay, a charming cove on Clear Lake, the surrounding views promised a good time.

Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, To Be Honest

Okay, I need to be upfront here, because accessibility is important. The Tallman Hotel does emphasize facilities for disabled guests. They have an elevator, and the website touts wheelchair-accessible rooms. However, the word on the street (and by the word, I mean a friend of mine who's staying with a disability) the pathways weren't perfectly smooth. Still, better than many places.

On-site restaurants: The Food! (and the Service… sometimes)

The Tallman Hotel has a restaurant, and I'm happy to report: the food was mostly fantastic. The Asian breakfast was a revelation, with some of the best flavors I've had in ages. The Western cuisine? Solid, though the portions could have been a touch more generous. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: the service was… inconsistent. Some staff members were total rockstars—friendly, attentive, and practically anticipating my needs. Others… well, let’s just say they seemed to be operating on "Lake Time”. (See: no rush, man). The poolside bar was a lifesaver, though, particularly during happy hour. Sipping a cocktail with the view of the lake? Pure bliss.

Internet Access:

Free Wi-Fi? Yes! Thank God. I mean, come on, it's 2024, right? It was pretty solid, too, which is important since I’m a freelance writer and always need to be connected. LAN access was also available, though I didn’t personally utilize it.

Relaxation Station: Pools, Spas, and… Serenity (Kinda)

Okay, the spa part was another highlight. Treatments were amazing. The pool with a view was also stunning - especially at sunset. The sauna and steam room were delightful, and I made regular use of them. The fitness center wasn't exactly state-of-the-art, but it had enough equipment to get a quick workout in (and, let's be real, after a full day of lounging, I needed it!). The body scrub and body wrap? Utterly decadent. I especially appreciated the foot bath – after all the traveling, my poor feet needed a treat!

Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe

The hotel clearly takes cleanliness seriously. They boasted about anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms being sanitized between stays. I never felt unsafe, which is a massive win, especially with the health concerns of recent years. Hand sanitizer was readily available, and the staff seemed genuinely committed to following safety protocols.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Fun

I already touched on the restaurants, but let's break it down further, shall we? The a la carte menu was extensive, and I loved the alternative meal arrangements. The pool bar, as mentioned, was a godsend for cocktails.

Services and Conveniences: All the Little Things

The concierge was helpful with local recommendations, which was welcome. Daily housekeeping kept the room immaculate. The facilities for disabled guests were a nice touch (though, as mentioned, some accessibility issues could still be improved). They had a gift shop (which was perfect for grabbing a last-minute souvenir), and the laundry service came in handy. The elevator was essential, and the available car park (free of charge!) was a huge plus.

For the Kids: Family Time

The hotel is family-friendly, and they offer babysitting services.

Things to Do: Beyond the Bubble

Upper Lake itself is small but charming. I took a walk around the little town, and the hotel provides access to other activities like hiking, fishing, and boating on Clear Lake.

Rooms, Sweet Rooms! (Almost)

My room… ah, my room. It had all the essentials: air conditioning, a comfy bed, a mini-bar, a coffee/tea maker, and free Wi-Fi (again, thank goodness). The blackout curtains were perfect for a good night's sleep. The bathroom was modern and functional and I liked the separate shower/bathtub. But, and here's where the imperfections come in, the soundproofing wasn't perfect. On a couple of nights, I could hear the neighbors. However, some rooms are more secluded, and the location as a whole had charm.

That One Big Moment… The (Almost) Disaster

(Okay, prepare yourself for a bit of a rant)

I spent a solid hour waiting for my room, even though it was already past check-in time. I was exhausted from travel, and I just wanted to collapse on that bed. The front desk was swamped. I totally get it – things happen. But the lack of communication, the slightly flustered demeanors – it was a bit frustrating! Eventually, everything was resolved, but the initial experience left a bit of a sour taste. Things like that. You can't plan for them.

Getting Around: Easy Peasy

The hotel offers airport transfer and taxi service. I just parked my car.

Final Verdict: Paradise… with a Grain of Salt

Would I recommend the Tallman Hotel? Yes, absolutely. It's a beautiful, charming, mostly relaxing escape. The setting is gorgeous. The food is mostly fantastic. The spa is top-notch. The staff, generally, is lovely. However, be prepared for a few potential hiccups (as with any hotel stay). It's not a perfectly polished, flawless experience, but that's also part of its charm. It's got character and the staff tries. Just… maybe pack a little patience, and prepare to embrace the "Lake Time" vibe.

Escape to Comfort: Microtel Inn & Suites Eagan/St. Paul - Your MN Getaway!

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Tallman Hotel Upper Lake (CA) United States

Alright, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. We're heading to the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake, California, and trust me, after this trip, you'll need a vacation from your vacation. Buckle up, because this is gonna be a mess, and I'm not sorry.

Day 1: Arrival, Reality Check, and an Unexpectedly Delicious Sandwich

• 1:00 PM: Land at Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS). Okay, first off, let's be real, this airport is the size of my living room. Cute, quaint…and slightly terrifying if you are used to big airports. Grab the rental car. Pray I didn't accidentally book a minivan. I would HATE to be that soccer mom.

• 2:30 PM: Drive to Upper Lake. The scenery is…well, let's just say it's "California-esque" with a dose of "I-hope-my-GPS-is-working-because-I-see-about-three-other-cars-on-this-road."

• 3:30 PM: Check into the Tallman Hotel. Okay, now we’re talking. The place is gorgeous, like something out of a vintage postcard. The lobby smells faintly of old books and money, which is a combo I can get behind. Find your room (hopefully I like it, if not the hotel will hear me rant.)

• 4:00 PM: Room Exploration and Panic. This is crucial. Unpack, but also immediately survey the scene. Does the bed look comfy? Does the bathroom have enough space for my mountains of beauty products? (Important question!) Also, is there a balcony? Gotta scope out the escape route.

• 5:00 PM: Find that damn sandwich. Okay, I saw some reviews rave about the Corner's Cafe's sandwiches. So, I'm on a mission. "But first, coffee." Gotta walk a little to find the place. Maybe get lost. Oh, I would love to get lost.

• 6:00 PM: Sandwich Nirvana (hopefully). Let's be honest, this is the make-or-break moment of the day. If this sandwich sucks? We riot. Or, you know, I'll just write a scathing review. Fingers crossed!

• 7:00 PM: Stroll through downtown. It is tiny. That is great. Maybe there is a bookstore. (Praying for good coffee, then the bookstore.)

• 8:00 PM: Dinner at the Tallman Hotel restaurant. Now, if that sandwich was underwhelming, they better make up for it here. Expectations are high! Hoping for something that makes me want to lick the plate. Also, wine. Definitely wine. I’m not even gonna elaborate.

  Day 2: Lake Levitation, Wine Wandering, and Existential Questions

• 8:00 AM: Wake up. (Hopefully, not with a killer hangover from all that wine). The key is hydration. Chug water, maybe eat something.

• 9:00 AM: Head to Clearlake. Okay, here's where it gets real. The plan is to rent a kayak. I'm not particularly graceful. I'm not particularly athletic. I'm also afraid of deep water. So, this could go… poorly. I'm ready to be humbled.

• 10:00 AM: Kayak disaster? Hopefully, it's not a complete disaster. I mean, I'm not expecting to be a pro kayaker. Hopefully, I don't flip the kayak and become a lake monster's brunch.

• 12:00 PM: Lunch at a Lakeside Diner. Preferably a greasy spoon with a view. Let's embrace our inner tourist and devour some fries.

• 2:00 PM: Wine tour! I found a couple of local wineries (because, California). Hopefully, they let me try EVERYTHING. My goal is to develop a refined palate, or at least pretend I know what I'm talking about. The one thing I know for sure is that I need some good wine.

• 6:00 PM: Dinner & Debrief. We’re back at the hotel restaurant. Reflect on the day’s adventures. And maybe, just maybe, attempt to analyze the meaning of life while staring into my wine glass.

• 8:00 PM: Stargazing. If the sky is clear, I’m finding somewhere dark. I am a sucker for a good night sky. There is something magical about it. And probably some existential questions.

  Day 3: Farewell (and a desperate attempt to extend the trip)

• 9:00 AM: Sigh dramatically. The trip is almost over. But first, breakfast. Omelets are on the menu, right?

• 10:00 AM: One last leisurely stroll. Maybe revisit that bookstore. Buy a book I’ll never read.

• 11:00 AM: Final Packing. The worst part. Trying to fit all my stuff back into the suitcase.

• 12:00 PM: Check Out. Say goodbye to the Tallman. (I may or may not cry).

• 1:00 PM: Drive back to the airport. Contemplate calling in 'sick' to work. Start planning my next vacation.

• 2:00 PM: At the Airport, waiting to go home. Well, that was fun, right? Maybe. Hopefully, it was fun. I’ll let you know when I'm done unpacking and recovering. Until next time, Upper Lake!

Escape to Paradise: Hotel Pacific Monterey Awaits!

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Tallman Hotel Upper Lake (CA) United States```html

Okay, so, "Escape to Paradise: Tallman Hotel's Upper Lake Charm." Does it *actually* live up to the hype? Because, let's be real, "paradise" is a big word.

Alright, alright, settle down. The hype? Yeah, it's there. And mostly, yeah, it kinda does. But with a giant, asterisk-shaped asterisk. Think of it like this: You're promised a gourmet burger. And you *get* a gourmet burger. But maybe the waiter spills a little ketchup on your shirt. Or the fries are a *tad* too salty. Still good burger, though! First, the location. Upper Lake? Gorgeous. Especially that morning mist rolling off the water. Like, seriously, I walked out onto the porch (if I was a good boy during the night) and just *gasped*. Beautiful. Then the hotel itself is... charming. Think weathered wood, old-school vibes, not some sterile, cookie-cutter monstrosity. That's a plus in my book. The food, the staff, all great. But, I'll admit, I got *hangry* one day and wasn't so thrilled when the only thing I could find was their restaurant. But the burger? Oh, the burger was divine, that was worth the wait alone. So, yeah... paradise-ish.

Can you *really* unplug there? Or are you still glued to your phone, secretly Instagramming sunsets?

Look, I'm human. I'm a digital creature. I *survived* by my phone when I was there. There was a wifi and I used the hell out of it. However, I forced myself to put it down, if you count the fact that I forgot it somewhere. More often than not, I was trying to catch a view. They *do* have decent wifi in your room, let's be real, but they also have a *really* relaxing porch swing overlooking the lake. Which, FYI, is a way better use of your time. So, you *can* unplug. *Should* you? Yes! *Will* you? Maybe. I did. My phone fell in the lake. Don't worry, I took it out. The most important thing you should remember about the place is to let yourself go.

What's the deal with the Tallman Hotel's restaurant? Foodies, spill the tea!

Okay, the restaurant. This is where things get... interesting. The ambiance? Spot on. Romantic lighting, a cozy vibe, all that jazz. The service? *Generally* good. People are friendly and try to be attentive. The food itself? Right on, it was good. But don't expect Michelin-star perfection. You're in a small town, not a major city. They've got a focus on local ingredients, which is great. I had a risotto that was *divine*. Another night's main course? I'm not going to lie to you, it was a little bit lackluster (fish was overcooked, ugh!). But overall, it was a positive experience. Here's the real thing though: the *prices*. Yeah, you'll be paying more than you'd expect for a small town spot. But you are paying for the location, the ambiance, and the experience. So, is it worth it? I'd say, yes. *Sometimes*.

Is this place good for a romantic getaway? Like, can you *actually* rekindle the flame?

Oh, *absolutely*. Romantic getaway? Definitely. The rooms are cozy, the fireplaces are legit (I didn't have a fireplace this time). There were couples everywhere, holding hands, whispering sweet nothings. I think they were whispering, anyway. I didn't eavesdrop. I was too busy admiring the lake views and secretly hoping I'd find a cute hiker. My opinion? Book a room with a lake view, order champagne, stroll along the water at sunset. Prepare for a good cry and have a good time as a couple. You'll be all over the place when you go back.

I'm not a "lake person." Is there anything *else* to do besides staring at water?

Okay, okay, not everyone's a water baby. Fair enough. Besides staring at the ridiculously gorgeous lake (which, honestly, is the main attraction), there are still things to do. * **Hiking:** Lots of trails nearby. Some are easy, some are more challenging. Get your boots on! * **Wineries:** The area has wineries. Wine tasting, anyone? Highly recommend you hire a driver or make preparations, since you might drink. * **Shopping:** There are small towns around with cute shops. Perfect for souvenir hunting. * **Just... Being:** Sometimes, the best thing to do is simply *be*. Read a book, relax on the porch, watch the day go by. Honestly, that's what I spent most of my time doing. And I don't regret it. Except maybe the time I spilled coffee on my new book....

Any major downsides? Be honest!

Alright, the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Here's the bad stuff (because there's always *some* bad stuff): * **Price:** It's not a budget vacation. Expect to pay a bit more than you might think is fair. * **Limited Activities:** If you get bored easily, you might find yourself running out of things to do after a few days. (Unless you really love to read, like me). * **Sometimes, the service can lag:** They try their best, but it's not flawless. I had a small issue with my room. It was resolved quickly. * **Mosquitos/Bugs:** Bring bug spray. Seriously. They are vicious at dusk. I learned the hard way. But, honestly, even with the downsides... I'd go back. Mosquitoes and all. The lake just has that power.

Is it dog-friendly? Because my furry best friend is basically my shadow.

Yes, they are dog-friendly! I saw a few happy pups wandering around. Now, I don't know the specific rules (call them!), but I definitely saw dogs. So, pack your pup's essentials! Just remember to be a responsible pet owner. Clean up after your dog, and make sure your dog is well-behaved (unlike some humans I've seen). Seeing the dogs in the place made me a bit jealous.

Okay, you mentioned the lake. What's *actually* like to dive in? Is that something you can do?

Can you dive? Yes, you can. ShouldTravel Stay Guides

Tallman Hotel Upper Lake (CA) United States

Tallman Hotel Upper Lake (CA) United States

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