Balch Hotel

We needed a place to stay last minute after a camping trip went badly. We weren't sure about booking this place, but Balch Hotel far exceeded our expectations! It is a lovely old building with so much character. The only thing I would give 4 stars instead of 5 is that it is an old building with loud doors and creaky furniture. But that is also what adds to the charm and we were never disturbed by the sounds of other guests. The breakfast was great and I loved how they didn't use single-use plastic. I also really appreciated the gay pride flag and black lives matter sign at the entryway.

This hotel has been on my must-visit list for a long time and it definitely did not disappoint! The staff could not have been more accommodating and the room was super clean and very comfortable. There is no A/C in the room so it was a bit stuffy at first, but after opening the window facing Mt. Hood, we got an excellent breeze going that cooled everything down. We stayed in Room 28, the King Spa room and it was beautiful. The tub was great! No complaints whatsoever. I can't wait to visit again!

Everything was wonderful! We visited on a Sunday night so there were only a few other guests staying in the hotel.. I'd imagine it might be a little loud if all the rooms were filled (but I can't say for sure because it was perfectly quiet for us).

Very friendly and helpful owners and staff - nothing was too much trouble. Large comfortable rooms, well stocked library, gardens in which to sit and enjoy. Location in lovely historic town of Dufur with easy access to The Dalles and Columbia River.

Nothing

We had a great meal at the restaurant, the town it’s in is absolutely enchanting, and the hotel is the crown jewel of that town

Well it’s an old hotel, so the bathrooms and showers are communal, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and we failed to read that so it threw us for a second, but in the end it was fine and probably only added charm to the space.

The whole place was very well kept up for being how old it is. The grounds are gorgeous. My husband and I spend 90 percent of our time outside in our backyard and it sure felt good to hang out have a drink and write in my journal after 300 miles on a motorcycle. Lots of shade and plenty of tables and chairs spread threw out the property. We needed ice for my husband's beer and the staff was very accommodating. There is no fridge microwave, tv or telephone but that was good with us. This little town has a lot of history.

I can't say I didn't like anything. The bed was very squeaky but they give you earplugs. That made it seem more like you are staying in a place from the early 1900.

Just an unbeatable location - The town of Dufur is small and peaceful with a few historic buildings in a lovely bucolic setting, fields surrounding. The hotel itself is soo charming. We stayed in the King Suite with a hot tub and spectacular view of Mt Hood. Bed was dreamy and lovely. Grounds are so peaceful, breakfast provided. Staff is kind and welcoming.

The last time we stayed in a regular double room and the bed was somewhat uncomfortable. I also hope that someday hot breakfast can be served again (would pay extra) or at least a gluten free bread/pastry option.

Very friendly staff, you can tell they really want guests to have a pleasant stay. Loved the history and decor. The bed was crazy comfortable and everything impeccably clean. Bearing in mind that this is an old building and therefore not the quietest, they graciously provide earplugs.

I'm sure the coffee/tea set up is just a safety precaution in response to Covid, but I would have liked coffee available sooner. Unfortunately there's nothing open earlier in town or anywhere nearby so unless you're heading north to The Dalles, plan to bring your own coffee and breakfast if you have to be up and out early.

It's a very nice small historical hotel. Quiet, and appointed with Antiques and furnishings that feel like you have gone back in time except that it's more comfortable than it would have been in earlier times.

No air conditioning. Dinner does not come with a salad or vegetables. Just the entree with some herded cornbread.

we liked the authenticity of the property , it is clear that extraordinary care is being lavished on the building and grounds alike .

i'm all for authenticity but i must admit that I missed my matrass at home . There are some things the 21st century does better than the 20th

The whole atmosphere was lovely. Took us back to a different era.

The sink in our room had not been finished cleaning but the beautiful bathroom across the hall made up for it. We found the restaurant amd staff very pleasant but the food for dinner was not so good. Breakfast was nice.