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Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the Gananoque Inn & Spa occupies the original The Gananoque Carriage Works factory. Converted to a hotel in 1896, the historic and charming Inn provides two riverfront restaurants, private docking, waterfront accommodation, and fireplace and Jacuzzi suites. The Inn is the perfect location from which to explore the 1000 Islands, the nearby UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal and Kingston Fortifications. Golf, fishing, island tours, kayaking, cycling, summer theatre, brewery tours and shopping are just a few of the nearby activities.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, French
Location
550 Stone St S, Gananoque, Ontario K7G 2A8 Canada
The Gananoque Inn And Spa
3.8 reviews
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
The hotel actually has the best location of all in Gananoque, right on the water with a view of the islands in the St. Lawrence River and the small harbor with the swing bridge. It is very popular, has its own small harbor basin for motorboats and Adirondak chairs on the pier. I definitely recommend getting a superior room on the water side. We had one in the main building with its own terrace. The simple rooms on the street are nothing. Some are musty, small and overpriced. It's better to pay a little more...! The hotel is run by people of Indian descent who are friendly and helpful. Please negotiate about the rooms! There is also a motel-like annex on the water and one slightly higher up, both with terraces. The rooms are also a little more expensive, but have been renovated. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar, both with terraces. The food there is of Canadian-American standard. Fried potatoes with salmon and beef. Nothing extravagant. Nothing for vegetarians...The cocktails are also mainstream. The small wine selection is small but OK (Canadian wines are also quite drinkable). The spa closes after the summer holidays, so I can't write anything about that. Thanks to thick carpets, the building is not as soundproof as other wooden buildings. The place has few good restaurants, but with a bit of research you will find one and go to bed satisfied. At night it is also nice and quiet; you can open the windows and turn off the air conditioning. Only in the morning do a few cars rattle over the metal swing bridge. Attractions include two small museums and island tours. The boats leave the pier within sight of the hotel several times a day until mid-October for tours lasting 1-5 hours.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We needed a place to stay for one night en route to Quebec. Gananoque was exactly the halfway point in our journey, so after a lot of research here on TA and elsewhere, I decided the Gananoque Inn and Spa must be the best place in town. It probably is…but that doesn’t mean it’s great.
The location is pretty much perfect, overlooking the river, and within in easy walking distance of everything worth seeing. The first impression of the exterior is that it definitely has some Victorian charm, but it needs a refresh. That impression continues inside as well.
Check in was quick and the front desk clerk was very pleasant. We hauled our bags up to our third floor queen bed room with view of…the parking lot. Some of the furniture appeared new, but the carpet, draperies, and wallpaper are old and in need of replacement. The tiny bathroom is also sorely in need of renovation. The two windows were covered in bugs and spiderwebs (outside). For $259, we had to laugh…
We had made advance dinner reservations at the Watermark restaurant, but they were only offering the pub menu. This was a great disappointment. We definitely wished we had chosen one of the fine dining establishments in town instead. Our meals were okay, and reasonably priced, but it wasn’t the experience we were looking for.
After a walk into town for ice cream, we returned to our room to the smell of marijuana smoke in the hallway. I just assumed this would be a non-smoking hotel, since it’s an historic wood framed building. When we opened our door and turned on the lights, we were alarmed to see dozens of bugs (fish flies?) had somehow gotten into the room and were all over the window shades, the walls, the ceiling… We managed to kill a lot of them with aerosol sunscreen, but it was a losing battle.
After our dinner experience I decided to skip the included breakfast and go for a run instead. My partner sent me a picture of the menu: 3 options (and his was not great, he said).
We checked out vowing that Gananoque was a “one and done” for us, but for those of you who really want to stay there, book one of the waterfront “motel” style rooms, as those appear to be the best on the property. But regardless of what category you choose, you are certainly paying too much.
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Do yourself a favour an choose a waterfront “motel” room.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from The Management, General Manager at The Gananoque Inn And Spa
Responded Jul 27, 2021
Thank you for your 3 bubble rating and detailed review and we are sorry we fell short on your stay. We are a historic inn that dates back to 1896 and do our best to keep the history of the property yet keep it up-to-date. Covid has put a wrench in the plans to upgrade many additions including carpets and washrooms, but they are in works in the future at some point. This past winter we were however able to add key less remote entry, new windows, new heating & air conditioning units, a new roof the our waterfront section, new guest room furniture and new decks to mention a few. But the pandemic has halted any further renovations for the time being, but is is coming and takes time and money. We do note in our guest rooms that this time of year and being located on the river, that non-biting insects known as "midges", make their way into rooms through open windows and doors and are attracted to lights, but mike many cottagers can attest, as much as we do, they always seem to find their way in, and we do apologize for that. We are a smoke free property, and had we have known absolutely would have put a stop to that, and again we apologize. We definitely fell short there and wished someone called to tell us. But have made note to try and do more rounds of the property. Again the ever so dreaded pandemic, has limited services and left us short of staff. Not being able to offer buffets, plus the increase in food prices, we have done our best to offer 3 hot breakfast options instead of continental breakfast. It seems although businesses are still struggling to reopen, keep updates,operate short staffed and plead for patrons to be kind and patient, expectations are only enhanced from guests being cooped up at home so long, and we apologize, but are doing the best we can and thank those staff for their hard work..
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
After a year and a half of staying home we booked here for a change of pace. The location is perfect - right on the river with lovely landscaping and chairs outside to enjoy the view and action of the boats etc. One negative thing was a lot of smokers sitting outside chain smoking - not pleasant, also near us a couple who many times had several couples over in front of their unit all talking at once very loudly (not in English) to the point we had to go inside because of the noise! Breakfast was included but had a very limited menu (3 selections to choose from) it was good but not what we expected as we paid over $700.00 for 2 nights. One waitress was absolutely amazing extremely pleasant and efficient. We ate dinner here as well and the food was good. Would not book again unless the price was more reasonable, our room was okay but more like a $100.00 motel room.
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Date of stay: July 2021
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from The Management, General Manager at The Gananoque Inn And Spa
Responded Aug 10, 2021
Thank you for your 4 bubble rating and review. We are so sorry to hear of your issues with other guests, and only wished you contacted us at guest services prior to leaving so we could have tried to rectify the situation. Regrettably Covid has left us limiting our menus, to avoid added contact/touching, short staffed and food shortages, But we find that at least we can offer hot entrees for breakfast with a bit of something for everyone, from bacon and eggs, pancakes and a simple BLT for the light eater. Sorry we fell short there. We have amazing staff and so pleased you experienced what we see very day. High Season (summer) is typically higher priced in our area as we are a typical summer destination, but there are always great specials and packages in the off-season on our website. Thank you again.
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My parents were celebrating their 50 anniversary, and this place did not disappoint. We upgraded to a waterfront room, which came with a designated parking space. Paper vouchers were given for a simple breakfast, which was a choice of classic breakfast (toast with scrambled or fried eggs, bacon), BLT, veggie sandwich (lettuce and tomato on toast), pancakes, and French toast. Breakfast is on one room/patio with lunch and dinner on a different room/patio.
The location was spectacular. Not only with waterfront views, but also walkable to shops, the ships, the beach, and the playhouse. While the spa was not operating, the massage place was only a 10 min walk. After I finished at the beach, I could still sit on an Adirondack chair and enjoy the picturesque setting.
The personal touches made a world of difference. Dinner was until 9, and on my parents’ anniversary, the waitress let us order dessert after 9 and didn’t rush us. All of the waitresses were attentive and kind. The front desk were quick to address any issues.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Â Upon checking in, you can park in the parking lot across the street. If you get a waterfront...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I visited Gananoque on a day trip last summer and thought it was beautiful so this spring we reserved a room at the Inn for my August visit to Canada. A few weels before my visit I checked in to Trip Advisor and read some really awful reviews of the inn-complaints about breakfast, cleanliness, staff, and more. I seriously considered canceling our reservation but thankfully I didn’t. We have had an absolutely wonderful visit. The front desk staff was welcoming, our bags were brought up to our room, the room was clean and nice with what looks like a brand new bathroom, the bed was comfortable and the bed linens lovely
Breakfast is included in the room charge and we have absolutely loved sitting on the covered porch being served a hot breakfast (4 options) while watching the harbor. The service has been excellent and unrushed. We usually lingered there after breakfst with refills of coffee.
I love being able to sit out in the Adirondack chairs on the dock abd being able to walk around the area. Our visit has been all I hoped for-relaxing and beautiful.
Because the Inn is in a very old building, there is no elevator to the rooms in the main building. Staff wiilingly carry your bags. There are also sreep stairs down to the dock and lawn. I use a cane and managed the indoor steps by taking my time and walked down the driveway to reach the dock and lawn.if you have concerns I would talk to the staff to find which rooms would work best for you. It is a wonderful place with an amazing view.
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
During my recent visit to Gananoque in April 2024, I had the pleasure of staying at the Gananoque Inn and Spa Hotel and dining at Muskie Jake's Restaurant, and I must say, it was an exceptional experience from start to finish.
The Gananoque Inn and Spa Hotel exudes charm and elegance, with its picturesque location overlooking the St. Lawrence River and historic architecture. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, making sure every aspect of my stay was perfect. The room was cozy, beautifully decorated, and offered breathtaking views of the river. The spa facilities were top-notch, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.
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Date of stay: April 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My husband and I decided to make the Family Day long weekend a quick getaway. We booked a room at the Gananoque Inn because they had a jetted tub in the room and that sounded like the perfect treat for our winter weary bones. We stayed in room 114. It appeared recently updated. It had a lovely king sized bed, small fridge and afore mentioned jacuzzi. The room had a beautiful view of the waterfront which we enjoyed sporadically thanks to Mother Nature's snow squalls.
Breakfast was included in the cost of the room and we were extremely satisfied with the offerings. It was a sit down breakfast with choices such as French Toast, BLT with homefries and the traditional bacon and eggs hungry person breakfast. No make your own waffles, dry muffin or crank your own cereal then eat while hovering in a corner waiting for a table to open up mania here! Service was also extremely friendly and all COVID protocols met.
The staff was extremely friendly. COVID measures made us feel comfortable. Check in and out was efficient. We plan on returning in the summer months.
Thank you for the lovely weekend.
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Date of stay: February 2022
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â We had room 114. It had a jacuzzi tub and was on the water.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I stayed at the Inn as a group for a ladies weekend away. When we booked our two rooms, we requested adjoining rooms is possible. When we arrived, we our rooms weren't even close together. One room was so small that the pull out bed sat onto of the foot of the real bed, so we requested a room together and one that could accommodate three people comfortably. We were placed in adjoining rooms. There was much more space. There was, however, a tub in room next to the bed that leaked from the faucet. We told the staff this upon our arrival. Nobody came to assess it. It wasn't just a drip, it was a steady stream of water that ran all weekend. It was running loud enough to wake us up over night. By the time we left, on Sunday, the floor from the tub to the bed was soaked. The food at Jake's was not good. Lucy at the reception desk is incredibly rude. I enjoyed my stay even with the above mentioned, however dealing with her is what is giving this review one, and if I could give zero, I would. I have been working in client relations for over 20 years, and the way I was treated is completely unacceptable.
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Date of stay: June 2022
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It isn't the worst hotel I have stayed at, but the worst VALUE.
My experiences simply come no where close to the $350/night i paid for the hot tub room.
I was greeted with a musty smelling room that has not been updated since the 1990's. A cracked hot tub that appeared to be roughly patched with putty? A closet that had a cheap wooden armoire in front of it. A small, badly out of date bathroom. A cheap, small tv. Curtains that completely cover the air conditioner.
I have stayed in nicer rooms for less then $100/night.
Breakfast was included in the stay, but that too disappointed.
I stood at the entrance for a few minutes before a wait staff even 'saw' me. The staff appeared to be run off their feet as they are woefully understaffed .
There were a total of three items on the breakfast menu, all listed for over $12.
I ordered the $15 traditional breakfast of bacon and eggs. The serving size was shockingly small, regardless of the price.
I have seen this happen far too often with other businesses. A successful business is purchased by new owners (Gananoque Inn changed hands in 2017), and the new owners proceed to run the business into the ground. Sadly, Gananoque Inn is suffering the same fate.
Unless there is significant change, I will not return.
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Date of stay: September 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from The Management, General Manager at The Gananoque Inn And Spa
Responded Nov 9, 2021
Thank you for your rating and review and are sorry ot hear of your dissapointment. Please know we are planning on continued renovations in 2022. Regrettably Covid has put a halt on upgrades that had already started as well as left adjusting to pandemic procedures and protocols with our guest and staff safety in mind which has a limited breakfast menu. But still lots to choose from, bacon and eggs, pancakes and even a BLT.
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The rooms were not clean. It’s like they had not dusted anything in the room. The breakfast was nothing special, if you are ok with partly cooked potatoes and over well eggs when you ask for over easy then you will love it! The service was mediocre at best. The staff - well they can use a lesson is running a business. They are definitely not in business to please their clients. They didn’t not take any accountability for any of the issues that were brought to their attention. Not a sorry, or an apology. The group had arranged for early check in, over 6 months prior to the date, and none of the guests were accommodated and again, the employees were rude. Imagine being told that they don’t care about your group, it’s high season and we would sell out whether your group is here or not. As a seasoned traveler, I have never seen or heard a group being treated so poorly. Unless this place gets new ownership and new staff, I would never recommend this place. If you’re ok to spend $700 for a weekend getaway and deal with what we dealt this the place for you. If you want to be respected and have a clean place to stay at the holiday inn down the road.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I do not think so because of safety factors. The water levels
are high and over the board walk a bit.
Also it is a boat channel.
You can always ask at the Inn desk
or phone ahead.
It is a beautiful setting by far.
Hope you get there for a visit.
I loved my room. The bathtub was obviously older, but the bathroom itself was still charming, clean and did not have any problems. The room was nicely decorated in a way that reflects the heritage and style of the inn. Again nice, clean and pleasant with a comfy mattress. If you are looking for a makeover reno porn setting with a completely upstyled room this is not your hotel. I suggest a glam major chain hotel in a major city centre. If you want atmosphere, pleasant surroundings, fabulous view of the water, good food, Saturday night entertainment, and the quiet of a small town neighbourhood, this is the place.
There are more places to choose from in the Gananoque area.
PRICE RANGE
C$151 - C$200 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
the gananoque hotel gananoque, gananoque bed breakfast
LOCATION
CanadaOntarioGananoque
NUMBER OF ROOMS
52
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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