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Summary of reviewsPioneer Inn by the River is an appealing choice for travelers, particularly those seeking both convenience and tranquility in their accommodations. Its prime location near the Port Hardy ferry terminal at Bear Cove caters to ferry-bound guests and adventure seekers with its serene riverside setting and proximity to hiking trails. The inn offers a well-balanced blend of functionality and peaceful retreat, making it an ideal stopover for Inside Passage travelers and nature enthusiasts.
Guests commend the cleanliness and spaciousness of the rooms, which often feature full kitchen amenities suitable for families and pet owners. Despite some rooms showing signs of wear and requiring updates in decor and ventilation, visitors generally find the accommodations comfortable and well-equipped. The inn's focus on cleanliness is evident, with consistently positive feedback regarding the tidy rooms and comfortable beds.
The staff at Pioneer Inn by the River significantly enhance the guest experience with their friendliness and helpfulness, ensuring seamless check-ins and accommodating late arrivals. Their warm and welcoming demeanor often leaves a lasting impression, contributing to the inn's reputation for hospitality.
While the beds receive mixed reviews, the clean and comfortable mattresses suit many guests' preferences, although some might find them too firm or the provided bedding insufficient.
Overall, Pioneer Inn by the River offers a satisfactory stay, prioritizing cleanliness and convenience in a beautiful natural setting, supported by a dedicated and welcoming staff. The inn stands out as a practical, pet-friendly option for those traveling to or from the ferry, ensuring a restful break in a scenic location. Show more
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Dog Friendly Motel
Motel with Free Wi-Fi
Room Types
Queen RoomFree Wi-Fi, a seating area and a cable TV are provided. A fridge, microwave, coffee maker and work desk are included.
Deluxe Double RoomFree Wi-Fi, a seating area and a cable TV are provided. A fridge, microwave, coffee maker and work desk are included.
Deluxe Family RoomProviding free toiletries, this family room includes a private bathroom with a bath. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and an oven in the well-equipped kitchen. The family room also offers a barbecue. The family room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a wardrobe as well as garden views. The unit offers 3 beds.
Queen StudioThe well-fitted kitchen features a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and an oven. This studio includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a terrace with garden views. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
6.3
Rated
Location
Nestled by the river, the Pioneer Inn by the River offers an ideal location for travelers seeking both convenience and serenity. Its proximity to the Port Hardy ferry terminal at Bear Cove makes it a favored choice for those embarking on the Inside Passage journey or catching an early morning BC Ferry to Prince Rupert. The inn's setting is not only close to the harbor and roads but also provides a tranquil escape in a beautiful outdoor environment. Guests appreciate the clean and quiet atmosphere, enhanced by scenic surroundings and nearby hiking trails perfect for nature lovers and their pets. The location is described as fantastic and very convenient, meeting the needs of ferry-bound travelers while offering a peaceful retreat. With its calm ambiance and strategic position, the inn proves to be an excellent option for an overnight stay before or after a ferry trip, especially for anglers and adventure seekers looking to enjoy the nearby river.
Rooms
Pioneer Inn by the River offers a range of room experiences, with most guests highlighting the cleanliness as a standout feature. Many reviews commend the spacious and well-equipped suites, particularly praising the full kitchen amenities, including a stove, microwave, coffee machine, and a sizable fridge. These suites provide ample space for small families and their pets. The modernized bathrooms, even if small, are noted for their cleanliness and new fixtures.
However, the reviews also point out some areas in need of improvement. Several guests mention that the rooms can be small and are showing signs of wear, with decor and furnishings described as tired or old. Some rooms could benefit from refurbishment, better ventilation, and updated bathroom amenities. Additionally, a few guests experienced issues with lingering chemical smells and room temperature control.
While the inn's location contributes to a quiet, restful night, some suggest enhancements like the addition of a fan to mitigate peripheral noise. Overall, Pioneer Inn by the River provides a satisfactory and clean stay, with its suites noted for comfort and convenience, making it a practical choice for travelers prioritizing functionality and pet-friendliness.
Beds
The beds at Pioneer Inn by the River receive mixed feedback from guests. Several reviewers found the mattresses comfortable, highlighting the cleanliness and comfort of the bed as positive aspects. However, others mentioned a hard mattress that didn't cater well to their personal needs, with a few guests describing the beds as very uncomfortable. Additionally, there is a mention of a thin blanket on the bed, with no other options provided. While the beds may suit some preferences, others may find them too firm, especially if one has specific needs such as a sensitive hip. Overall, the bed experience largely depends on personal comfort preferences.
Cleanliness
Pioneer Inn by the River, while maintaining the charm of a classic establishment, impresses guests with its commitment to cleanliness. Guests frequently comment on how everything in the hotel appears very clean, including the comfortable beds and functional rooms. For a hotel with a 2-star rating, visitors appreciate the high standard of cleanliness throughout. Although some mention minor inconveniences such as limited counter space around the bathroom sink and an overlooked toilet paper roll dispenser, the overall impression of the hotel's cleanliness remains positive. The friendly and accommodating staff enhance the experience, offering a warm welcome irrespective of the time of arrival. Despite its age and the lack of recent updates, the Pioneer Inn ensures a clean and pleasant stay for its guests.
Staff
Pioneer Inn by the River is known for having a notably friendly and helpful team. Visitors frequently appreciate the warm and accommodating nature of the staff, with many guests highlighting the pleasant and kind demeanor of the receptionists. The personnel are commended for their courteousness and efficiency, ensuring a seamless and quick check-in experience, which is often noted as a highlight. Additionally, the owners are recognized for their exceptional friendliness and accommodation, especially when dealing with late arrivals. Though there are occasional mentions of less favorable experiences at the front desk, the general consensus points to a team that is both welcoming and attentive. Guests often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the staff’s willingness to go the extra mile, such as offering upgraded accommodations like a spacious mini-apartment.
No, Pioneer Inn by the River doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Pioneer Inn by the River.
Yes, Pioneer Inn by the River welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Pioneer Inn by the River.