On October 1st, Asheville welcomed it's newest hotel with the addition of
Kimpton Hotel Arras. Arras is a 128-room boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown, just steps away from shopping, great restaurants, and local art galleries. The location of this new oasis couldn't be better, but what really sold this new property for me was the outstanding level of customer service, luxe amenities, and abundant mountain views.
I've been coming to Asheville regularly for six years now as it's the perfect distance from Charlotte for a weekend away, and I've had the opportunity to stay at hotels all over the city. I was anxiously awaiting the opening of this hotel, with high anticipation of a fabulous stay - and I have to say, it was nothing short of that.
I arrived at the hotel about a week after Asheville's peak leaf peeping season came to and end and hotel rates in the area were still on the higher end of the spectrum. I was surprised and super pleased to see that
Kimpton's rates however, were much more reasonable (around the $180/night category depending on room type), and in all transparency, I am shocked by those rates in light of the amazing all around experience I had. But, I'm not complaining because this is a huge factor in allowing us to come back often!
My room was located on the seventh floor, and was one of the most impressive rooms I've stayed in to date. Decor was modern and stylish and tributes local artists, and floor to ceiling windows provided sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You will find a fully stocked mini bar with local Asheville snacks (the poppy popcorn is a must) upon entering the room, and a full sized bathroom with a tub and walk-in shower directly ahead. The room was also divided into a living space with a full size couch and desk space to work, and King size bed that felt like home. Trust me when I say waking up to the sunrise over the mountains doesn't suck. I'm also pleased to announce the room came equipped with a Nespresso machine, if you know me - you know this is important. Additionally, I really appreciated the amazing lighting that went into putting the bathrooms together. Not only did the bathroom have natural light, the light switch was on a dimmer so you can adjust how dark or bright you want the area to be while getting ready, or soaking in the tub. I can't go without mentioning how clean everything was as well. As previously mentioned, this room was a complete dream.
There are two restaurants inside of the hotel.
Bargello is a Mediterranean inspired, locally sourced restaurant led by Peter and Martha Pollay (they also own Posana). The menu consists of wood fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and whole preparations for sharing. Katie and I tried a variety of dishes here both at dinner and breakfast and loved the food. Highly recommend ordering the sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, meatballs, swordfish and chicken piccata at dinner, and whatever you do -- do not forgo the porridge at breakfast! I'm not typically a porridge person, but I was blown away by how tasty it was. The second restaurant in the hotel is
District 42 which blends together small plates and craft cocktails in a lounge like environment. Doing happy hour here before heading to Bargello for dinner is not a bad idea! I highly recommend the Mountain Air cocktail.
I think one of the most unique aspects of staying at a Kimpton property is the afternoon social hour. Every afternoon from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, Kimpton offers complimentary wine and snacks in the hotel lobby for it's guests. Also located near the check-in desks are complimentary PUBLIC bicycles to borrow during your stay, and the hotel offers free coffee and tea every morning.
Kimpton Hotel Arras also offers a fitness center for it's guests complete with Peloton's and Rogue strength and conditioning equipment and a private massage room available for booking. I didn't have a chance to check this out during my short stay, but it's at the top of my priority list for the next visit as working out is typically a part of my day while traveling. If you have a fur baby you can't leave home without, not to worry, the hotel is also pet friendly and located about 3 miles from the popular French Broad River Dog Park.
Overall Thoughts
The customer service was the highlight of my stay. While the hotel has only been in operation for a short time, the service was seamless! I was so impressed with the staff and how genuine and kind they all were. I felt welcome and like the team was excited for me to be there which is a rare find these days, especially within a new establishment. I truly can't express enough how above and beyond this hotel goes for it's guests. Everything from hand-written welcome notes, to never being greeted with anything but a smiling face, my stay truly felt personal. This is an excellent stay, at a fantastic value. Take me up on the opportunity, and book a stay this December to see the Christmas lights - you just might see me there!
*In partnership with Kimpton Hotel Arras. As always, all opinions are my own.
