After staying at two other BW hotels on the way home to Austin, TX from Lakeland, TN we decided to try the Trail Dust Inn based on the reviews on Trip Advisor. I am happy to report that the hotel lived up to the reviews I read. Our check-in was rapid and friendly. A small goodie bag was presented and we were ready to head to the room on the first floor in the main building. Parking was plentiful and close.
Our room was a double queen with a view, via a sliding glass door, of the pool area. The room was clean and roomy with adequate storage, a desk area with two chairs, a small fridge and microwave and an older CRT television that did not present a very good picture. The sink and bath area showed signs of wear but were very clean otherwise. Plenty of towels and washcloths were present along with an ironing board and suitcase stand. The A/C unit worked well and was fairly quiet.
We unpacked, made a drink and headed for the pool area to relax. The pool was clean and well-kept with a variety of chairs, tables and loungers available. It was very quiet outside here and in the room as well. The hotel location, up on a hill away from I-30, makes road noise an afterthought. The lobby is furnished nicely, with Texas flair, offering a central fountain, a sofa and some comfortable chairs. This is perfect for sitting to talk or to watch the large flat screen TV. There is also a computer available for guest use.
The evening desk staff was just as friendly at the afternoon person. There was always a smile and a greeting whenever we passed by. We walked over to Burton's, a restaurant close by for an evening meal and found the establishment clean and the food fairly priced. The chili and cornbread was good but the chicken gumbo did not pass the quantity or quality test. However, it is close and the menu is varied.
After leaving Burton's, we walked to the Sundance Lounge behind the main hotel building and adjacent to the pool area. Cocktail prices are not overly expensive but you need not worry about getting an over pour in your drink here. Sulphur Springs is in a dry county so you will need to "join" the club (no charge) to have a drink at the bar. The decor is dark and heavy with smoke so be ready to suffer the cigarette smell in your clothes later on. Ventilation is not a priority in the Sundance.
Returning to the room to shower and head to sleep, we found the shower to work well with plenty of hot water and good water pressure. The queen beds were very comfortable with 4 pillows on each bed. Clean sheets and comforters (and the lack of highway noise) made the sleep quality superb.
Breakfast the next morning was served just down the hall from our room in what appeared to be a converted suite. There was ample seating, a flat screen TV for news and a USAToday on each table. The fare was typical, presenting scrambled eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, breads, cereals, juices and coffee along with a waffle cooker and a microwave to heat up whatever. Quantity and quality was good and the breakfast staff person was friendly and helpful. Nice place to grab a bite before hitting the road.
Overall, I rate the hotel 5 stars except for the condition of the room's sink/bath area and the old, small CRT television. Upgrading the rooms to 32 inch LCD units would not only save energy but enhance the room appeal. We enjoyed our stay very much and will be staying there again on our next trip. A "highly recommended" is warranted for this Best Western.
- Best Western Sulphur Springs
- Sulphur Springs Best Western
