The Smoke House Lodge
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Summary of reviewsThe Smoke House Lodge enjoys a reputation for its outstanding location, making it an ideal base for exploring surrounding attractions like Sewanee University, The Caverns and local hiking trails. Visitors praise its peaceful, private setting with the convenience of nearby amenities, such as grocery stores and gas stations. The charming and tranquil town of Monteagle is an added bonus, providing both a serene environment and proximity to beautiful Tennessee spots like Cumberland Park and Foster Falls.
Breakfast at the lodge, however, has been a notable point of contention. Guests were often disappointed by the lack of availability, despite appealing images and promises on the website. This inconsistency led many to seek alternatives elsewhere with the limited breakfast service, particularly during the week, cited as a significant drawback.
Dinner options have also seen changes since the lodge's restaurant burned down in 2019. A smaller bar and grill now operates on weekends, receiving mixed reviews for its food quality and value. Some guests enjoyed the live music and the new dining experience, while others found the menu limited, especially for those with dietary restrictions. The ambiance of the new establishment is generally appreciated, but there is a longing for the return of the original restaurant's variety and convenience.
Regarding accommodations, guests often spoke favorably of the cozy and spacious cabins, which contribute to the lodge's rustic charm. Many appreciated the comfortable beds, clean linens and amenities like A/C units and small fridges. Nonetheless, there were recurring complaints about dated fixtures, cleanliness issues and maintenance problems, including dirty floors, outdated bathrooms and unwanted odors.
The lodge staff received high marks for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing significantly to the overall guest experience. Most visitors found the staff to be helpful and hospitable, enhancing their stay despite any shortcomings in other areas.
WiFi at the lodge is another mixed bag with some guests enjoying strong, reliable connections and others facing difficulties with signal strength and connectivity. It would be wise for guests requiring consistent internet access to verify arrangements in advance.
The pool at The Smoke House Lodge also drew varied reviews. While many guests enjoyed the pool area and found it a fun addition, others noted cleanliness issues and inconsistencies in its availability. Maintenance and upkeep were common concerns among those who encountered a less-than-ideal pool experience.
The family-oriented environment at the lodge is a strong suit, featuring activities like biking on the Mountain Goat Trail and a paddle car track. The family-friendly atmosphere and large, scenic property make it a popular choice for those traveling with children.
In summary, The Smoke House Lodge offers a favorable location, a rustic and peaceful setting and an accommodating staff. However, visitors may encounter inconsistencies in dining options, room maintenance and cleanliness, which could impact the overall experience. The lodge remains a charming retreat with unique amenities, but would benefit from addressing these areas to enhance guest satisfaction.
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Breakfast at the lodge, however, has been a notable point of contention. Guests were often disappointed by the lack of availability, despite appealing images and promises on the website. This inconsistency led many to seek alternatives elsewhere with the limited breakfast service, particularly during the week, cited as a significant drawback.
Dinner options have also seen changes since the lodge's restaurant burned down in 2019. A smaller bar and grill now operates on weekends, receiving mixed reviews for its food quality and value. Some guests enjoyed the live music and the new dining experience, while others found the menu limited, especially for those with dietary restrictions. The ambiance of the new establishment is generally appreciated, but there is a longing for the return of the original restaurant's variety and convenience.
Regarding accommodations, guests often spoke favorably of the cozy and spacious cabins, which contribute to the lodge's rustic charm. Many appreciated the comfortable beds, clean linens and amenities like A/C units and small fridges. Nonetheless, there were recurring complaints about dated fixtures, cleanliness issues and maintenance problems, including dirty floors, outdated bathrooms and unwanted odors.
The lodge staff received high marks for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing significantly to the overall guest experience. Most visitors found the staff to be helpful and hospitable, enhancing their stay despite any shortcomings in other areas.
WiFi at the lodge is another mixed bag with some guests enjoying strong, reliable connections and others facing difficulties with signal strength and connectivity. It would be wise for guests requiring consistent internet access to verify arrangements in advance.
The pool at The Smoke House Lodge also drew varied reviews. While many guests enjoyed the pool area and found it a fun addition, others noted cleanliness issues and inconsistencies in its availability. Maintenance and upkeep were common concerns among those who encountered a less-than-ideal pool experience.
The family-oriented environment at the lodge is a strong suit, featuring activities like biking on the Mountain Goat Trail and a paddle car track. The family-friendly atmosphere and large, scenic property make it a popular choice for those traveling with children.
In summary, The Smoke House Lodge offers a favorable location, a rustic and peaceful setting and an accommodating staff. However, visitors may encounter inconsistencies in dining options, room maintenance and cleanliness, which could impact the overall experience. The lodge remains a charming retreat with unique amenities, but would benefit from addressing these areas to enhance guest satisfaction.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Guest Reviews
Visitors to The Smoke House Lodge consistently highlight its exceptional location as a key advantage of their stay. The lodge's convenient positioning offers easy access to major highways like I-24 and its proximity to various recreational and cultural attractions. Guests have found it to be an ideal base for attending concerts at The Caverns, exploring the nearby Sewanee University and embarking on numerous hiking adventures with the trails close by.
The surroundings of The Smoke House Lodge are often described as pleasant and tranquil, providing a private yet accessible setting that enhances the overall experience. The rustic, cozy cabins add to the charm, making it a favored retreat for families and solo travelers alike. Moreover, the proximity to essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations ensures that guests have all they need within reach.
For those looking to explore further afield, there are plenty of sightseeing and shopping opportunities within a short drive. The charming and quiet town of Monteagle enhances the appeal, offering a peaceful environment while still being close to popular attractions such as the Cumberland Park Welcome Center, Foster Falls and Fiery Gizzard. Guests appreciate the beautiful views and the convenient location nestled between Chattanooga and Nashville, making it a strategic spot for an extended Tennessee exploration.
The Smoke House Lodge receives mixed reviews when it comes to breakfast offerings. Despite appealing pictures and information suggesting a hearty breakfast on their website, many guests were disappointed to find that no breakfast was available during their stay. The lack of breakfast was a significant letdown for some visitors, especially since the kitchen was closed due to unforeseen circumstances or limited operations to certain days like Fridays and Saturdays.
Several reviews mentioned the absence of even basic breakfast options such as cereals, leaving guests to seek alternatives in an area with limited nearby restaurants. Though some found the staff to be accommodating and the internal environment cozy and spacious, the inconsistency between what was advertised and what was available has been a recurring concern. A more consistent breakfast offering could significantly improve the overall guest experience at The Smoke House Lodge.
The Smoke House Lodge has undergone significant changes recently, especially concerning its dining options. The original restaurant, once a highlight for guests, unfortunately burned down in 2019. Since then, a smaller bar and grill has taken its place, but it's only open on weekends, which has been a point of frustration for many visitors. Guests miss the ease of hopping over to grab a bite and the variety once offered, although the new establishment does have live music that many find enjoyable.
Food quality and service at the new bar and grill have varied significantly among guests. Some praised the excellent food and entertaining live music, while others found the food overpriced and of poor quality. Those with dietary restrictions, such as gluten allergies or a need for vegan options, found the menu lacking.
The use of Styrofoam cups and plastic utensils also detracted from the dining experience for some. The absence of breakfast options and the limited operating days meant that many had to seek meals elsewhere, often resulting in inconvenience.
The atmosphere of the new bar/grill was generally well-received, although many long for the ambiance and convenience of the old restaurant. The desire for a properly rebuilt dining facility is a common sentiment, as it seems essential for making the Lodge a perfect lodging choice once again.
The Smoke House Lodge presents a mix of experiences among its guests, particularly regarding room quality. On the positive side, many guests appreciated the spacious and comfortable cabins, describing them as cozy and quaint with a rustic charm and a peaceful environment. Several visitors found their rooms clean, adequate for their needs and offering good value for the price. Some people praised the larger rooms and the comfort of the mattresses and bedding. The presence of amenities like A/C units, small fridges and jetted tubs added to their satisfaction. The cabins, in particular, were noted for being adorable and well-equipped with essential amenities.
However, there were numerous concerns pointing to a need for significant updates and improvements. Reviews frequently highlighted that the rooms were dated and in need of modernization. Issues such as dim lighting, small bathrooms and outdated fixtures were commonly mentioned. Cleanliness appeared inconsistent with reports of dirty floors, unclean bathrooms, musty smells, mold and bugs detracting from the overall experience. Maintenance problems were another recurring theme, covering everything from malfunctioning showers and toilets to peeling wallpaper and dusty ceilings. Some rooms had no mini-fridges, phones or microwaves, which some guests found inconvenient.
Comfort was a mixed bag with several comments about rooms being dark and damp and complaints about uncomfortable or hard bedding. Additionally, many felt the rooms had a stale, smoky odor, despite non-smoking policies. Despite the charm exuded by the lodge's rustic feel, the recurring themes of cleanliness and outdated amenities left many guests with a somewhat disappointing experience.
The beds at The Smoke House Lodge have garnered a mixed bag of reviews. Many guests found the beds to be comfortable and conducive to a restful night's sleep, often describing them as comfy, clean and offering a good night's rest. Words like "super comfy," "extremely comfortable," and "slept like a baby" reflect the positive experiences of such guests. Additionally, the soft pillows were highlighted as a pleasant feature by several reviewers.
However, there were also significant concerns raised by other guests. Reports of hard, worn-out mattresses and beds that sag in the middle were frequent. Some described the beds as being too firm, too soft, springy or full of suspicious lumps. A few reviews pointed out dirty bedding and linens, which detracted from their overall experience.
Overall, while some guests had a pleasant sleep experience due to the comfortable beds, others noted the urgency for an update and improvement in cleanliness and mattress quality to ensure all guests have a comfortable stay.
The Smoke House Lodge has received mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. Many guests noted that rooms were clean, comfortable and well-maintained. Positive feedback highlights clean rooms, comfortable linens and nice bedding, making for a pleasant stay for some visitors.
However, there were numerous criticisms about the overall cleanliness of the facility. Some rooms were found with spiders, hair in the bathroom, dust, cobwebs and even bugs such as cockroaches and ladybugs. Issues were also noted with outdated and cluttered furniture, musty smells, dirty floors and filthy bathrooms, including mold and dust. Specific problems included dirty bathtubs, sticky surfaces and unclean towels.
Rooms were occasionally reported as not being ready at check-in with some arriving to find personal belongings exposed. The cleanliness of the cabins was mentioned negatively as well with reports of dirt, dust, rotting wood and a notable lack of upkeep. The outdoor areas also saw some neglect with mouse droppings found in cookware in some cabins.
In conclusion, while some guests experienced a clean and comfortable stay at The Smoke House Lodge, a considerable number of guests encountered various cleanliness issues, indicating an inconsistency in housekeeping standards.
The Smoke House Lodge enjoys a reputation for its excellent staff, according to numerous guest reviews. The majority of visitors praised the team for being friendly, helpful and professional. Guests often highlighted the staff's warm, welcoming nature, noting that they were eager to assist and provide recommendations on local attractions and restaurants. Many remarked on the cleanliness and comfort of the lodge, which they attributed to the diligent housekeeping staff and overall well-maintained premises.
However, some reviews pointed out inconsistencies. While the general consensus was positive, a few guests experienced rude or unhelpful behavior from specific staff members, especially at the front desk. These instances seem to be outliers, as overwhelmingly, the feedback suggests that guests felt valued and well-cared for during their stays.
In summary, while there are occasional hiccups, the staff at The Smoke House Lodge are generally celebrated for their friendliness, professionalism and commitment to making guests feel at home.
The Smoke House Lodge offers free WiFi to its guests with feedback indicating varying experiences regarding its performance. Some guests have reported excellent WiFi, noting strong and reliable connections. However, others encountered issues such as poor signal strength, difficulty connecting and intermittent service. While the lodge provides WiFi instructions and passwords, some experienced challenges obtaining the correct information or device access. It's also worth noting that WiFi availability in certain cabins may be inconsistent, despite overall listings suggesting otherwise. Thus, guests may benefit from checking WiFi arrangements in advance to ensure smooth connectivity during their stay.
The Smoke House Lodge has received mixed reviews about its pool from guests. On the positive side, many visitors appreciated the pool, describing it as good, nice, great and even amazing to hang out and enjoy. It was highlighted as a fun amenity for the kids, adding value to the overall experience. Some guests noted that it was nice to be close to the pool and the grounds with the pool were complemented by other amenities for added enjoyment.
However, there were also several criticisms. Some guests found the pool to be outdated and occasionally dirty with one review specifically mentioning that it had no chlorine and looked like swamp water. Guests also experienced closures with the pool being closed at various times or not available on certain mornings. Additionally, certain guests mentioned there was no pool at all.
Overall, while the pool at The Smoke House Lodge has the potential to be a highlight for many visitors, inconsistencies in maintenance and availability may impact guest satisfaction.
The Smoke House Lodge is an appealing choice for families traveling with kids. The property features a variety of activities such as a pool, bicycles and walking paths adorned with beautiful flowers and fountains. Families will appreciate the large, scenic property, which includes the unique "Mountain Goat Trail" for biking. The peaceful atmosphere and family-run nature of the lodge contribute to its charm, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. Children particularly enjoy the paddle car track, adding to the array of fun activities available.
The lodge’s favorable location provides easy access to nearby attractions and the convenience of a patio grill offers additional dining options. Despite some maintenance issues and mixed reviews on cleanliness, the friendly staff and family-oriented environment make it a supportive setting for family reunions and relaxing vacations.
The Smoke House Lodge offers easy access from both the highway and the interstate, ensuring convenience for travelers. The hotel features rooms with easy access, making it suitable for guests looking for straightforward entry. However, it is important to note that the second-floor rooms are not accessible to older or disabled guests, as the hotel lacks elevators. Thus, individuals with mobility issues may find the long walk upstairs challenging.
The Smoke House Lodge features an outdoor pool that has received mixed reviews from guests. Many have appreciated the pool area, describing it as nice and liking the view it offers. Some guests have found the pool to be huge with plenty of space and have remarked that it looks amazing even if they didn't get a chance to use it. However, several guests noted issues with cleanliness, mentioning that the pool was dirty with murky water and that there was a lack of regular maintenance around the pool area. A few guests also commented that the pool was too small for their liking.
'The Smoke House Lodge' provides a welcoming environment for guests traveling with pets. Described frequently as pet friendly, the hotel allows dogs, although there is a pet fee involved. Guests appreciate the ability to bring their pets along, noting the convenience and overall pet-friendly atmosphere. However, there are a few concerns highlighted about the maintenance of the facility with mentions of the need for thorough cleaning. Additionally, some guests observed dogs being left unleashed with limited monitoring from the staff. Despite these issues, the consensus remains positive regarding the pet accommodation, making it a favored choice for pet owners.
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Location
The surroundings of The Smoke House Lodge are often described as pleasant and tranquil, providing a private yet accessible setting that enhances the overall experience. The rustic, cozy cabins add to the charm, making it a favored retreat for families and solo travelers alike. Moreover, the proximity to essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations ensures that guests have all they need within reach.
For those looking to explore further afield, there are plenty of sightseeing and shopping opportunities within a short drive. The charming and quiet town of Monteagle enhances the appeal, offering a peaceful environment while still being close to popular attractions such as the Cumberland Park Welcome Center, Foster Falls and Fiery Gizzard. Guests appreciate the beautiful views and the convenient location nestled between Chattanooga and Nashville, making it a strategic spot for an extended Tennessee exploration.
Breakfast
Several reviews mentioned the absence of even basic breakfast options such as cereals, leaving guests to seek alternatives in an area with limited nearby restaurants. Though some found the staff to be accommodating and the internal environment cozy and spacious, the inconsistency between what was advertised and what was available has been a recurring concern. A more consistent breakfast offering could significantly improve the overall guest experience at The Smoke House Lodge.
Dinner
Food quality and service at the new bar and grill have varied significantly among guests. Some praised the excellent food and entertaining live music, while others found the food overpriced and of poor quality. Those with dietary restrictions, such as gluten allergies or a need for vegan options, found the menu lacking.
The use of Styrofoam cups and plastic utensils also detracted from the dining experience for some. The absence of breakfast options and the limited operating days meant that many had to seek meals elsewhere, often resulting in inconvenience.
The atmosphere of the new bar/grill was generally well-received, although many long for the ambiance and convenience of the old restaurant. The desire for a properly rebuilt dining facility is a common sentiment, as it seems essential for making the Lodge a perfect lodging choice once again.
Rooms
However, there were numerous concerns pointing to a need for significant updates and improvements. Reviews frequently highlighted that the rooms were dated and in need of modernization. Issues such as dim lighting, small bathrooms and outdated fixtures were commonly mentioned. Cleanliness appeared inconsistent with reports of dirty floors, unclean bathrooms, musty smells, mold and bugs detracting from the overall experience. Maintenance problems were another recurring theme, covering everything from malfunctioning showers and toilets to peeling wallpaper and dusty ceilings. Some rooms had no mini-fridges, phones or microwaves, which some guests found inconvenient.
Comfort was a mixed bag with several comments about rooms being dark and damp and complaints about uncomfortable or hard bedding. Additionally, many felt the rooms had a stale, smoky odor, despite non-smoking policies. Despite the charm exuded by the lodge's rustic feel, the recurring themes of cleanliness and outdated amenities left many guests with a somewhat disappointing experience.
Beds
However, there were also significant concerns raised by other guests. Reports of hard, worn-out mattresses and beds that sag in the middle were frequent. Some described the beds as being too firm, too soft, springy or full of suspicious lumps. A few reviews pointed out dirty bedding and linens, which detracted from their overall experience.
Overall, while some guests had a pleasant sleep experience due to the comfortable beds, others noted the urgency for an update and improvement in cleanliness and mattress quality to ensure all guests have a comfortable stay.
Cleanliness
However, there were numerous criticisms about the overall cleanliness of the facility. Some rooms were found with spiders, hair in the bathroom, dust, cobwebs and even bugs such as cockroaches and ladybugs. Issues were also noted with outdated and cluttered furniture, musty smells, dirty floors and filthy bathrooms, including mold and dust. Specific problems included dirty bathtubs, sticky surfaces and unclean towels.
Rooms were occasionally reported as not being ready at check-in with some arriving to find personal belongings exposed. The cleanliness of the cabins was mentioned negatively as well with reports of dirt, dust, rotting wood and a notable lack of upkeep. The outdoor areas also saw some neglect with mouse droppings found in cookware in some cabins.
In conclusion, while some guests experienced a clean and comfortable stay at The Smoke House Lodge, a considerable number of guests encountered various cleanliness issues, indicating an inconsistency in housekeeping standards.
Staff
However, some reviews pointed out inconsistencies. While the general consensus was positive, a few guests experienced rude or unhelpful behavior from specific staff members, especially at the front desk. These instances seem to be outliers, as overwhelmingly, the feedback suggests that guests felt valued and well-cared for during their stays.
In summary, while there are occasional hiccups, the staff at The Smoke House Lodge are generally celebrated for their friendliness, professionalism and commitment to making guests feel at home.
Wi-Fi
Pool
However, there were also several criticisms. Some guests found the pool to be outdated and occasionally dirty with one review specifically mentioning that it had no chlorine and looked like swamp water. Guests also experienced closures with the pool being closed at various times or not available on certain mornings. Additionally, certain guests mentioned there was no pool at all.
Overall, while the pool at The Smoke House Lodge has the potential to be a highlight for many visitors, inconsistencies in maintenance and availability may impact guest satisfaction.
Family
The lodge’s favorable location provides easy access to nearby attractions and the convenience of a patio grill offers additional dining options. Despite some maintenance issues and mixed reviews on cleanliness, the friendly staff and family-oriented environment make it a supportive setting for family reunions and relaxing vacations.
Accessible
Outdoor Pool
Dog Friendly
Yes, The Smoke House Lodge has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Smoke House Lodge.
Yes, The Smoke House Lodge welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Smoke House Lodge.
No, The Smoke House Lodge doesn't have a gym.
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