8/10 - Telegraph expert rating
"Away from towering high rises, this is a different kind of San Francisco stay – an undoubtedly better one. This historic hotel, located at the northern tip of the city in a national park next to the Golden Gate Bridge, provides its guests a serene stay in an otherwise bustling city. Go for a hike, relax by the fire pit or simply enjoy the panoramic views. "
Location - 9/10
Just when you’re questioning if you’re actually in San Francisco, you’ll get a peek of that famous red bridge. Located in the Presidio, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this could be the most secluded spot to stay in the city, yet it’s just a tad more than four miles to the Ferry Building and even closer to Fisherman’s Wharf. Historically home to native peoples and military posts, the now national park offers miles of hiking trails, museums and the Presidio Tunnel Tops, a scenic lookout that stretches across a highway, connecting to the beach edged San Francisco Bay. A free shuttle operates from downtown San Francisco to the Presidio.
Style and Character - 8/10
Built in 1903, the red-brick, Georgian Revival-style building originally served as quarters for unmarried army officers. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and many original features, including doors, light fixtures, hardwood floors and Tuscan columns, have been preserved and mingle seamlessly with leather furnishings, wainscotting and military memorabilia such as photography, maps and a collection of antique bugles.
Service and Facilities - 7/10
Check in is fast and efficient. An urban escape in the thick of busy San Francisco, the hotel’s backyard is a national park boasting miles of hiking trails, beaches, and panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge. After busy days, guests can relax in one of the wooden rocking chairs lining the front porch or cosy up around the fire pit. An assortment of board games can be checked out at the front desk.
- Laundry
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
Rooms - 8/10
The Inn has 22 guestrooms, including 17 suites with spacious living areas featuring queen beds and fireplaces that ignite with the touch of a button. A majority are housed in the three-story Main Building, however four rooms are located a few metres away in a renovated officer’s home known as the Funston House.
All rooms come with custom-made mattresses, large windows that actually open (a rarity in San Francisco hotels), Nespresso machines, robes, slippers and minibars. Bathrooms are striking with white tiled floors and dark blue subway tiles surrounding the shower from floor to ceiling. On fog-free days, two rooms offer views of the San Francisco Bay, and one of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Food and Drink - 7/10
There is no restaurant on-site, but a continental breakfast buffet is included with every stay. Expect oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, fresh fruit, cereals, granola and pastries, as well as juices, coffee and assorted teas. A complimentary wine and cheese reception is provided nightly from five until seven.
Colibri Mexican Grill is located a few doors away; Italian Il Parco (and its views of the Golden Gate Bridge) is a half-mile walk. The nearby Marina district and Laurel Heights neighbourhood host an assortment of popular restaurants and bars.
Value for Money - 7/10
Double rooms from $350 (£275), year-round. Breakfast included.
Access for guests with disabilities?
There is a dedicated lift and two adapted rooms. Assistive listening devices are available upon request.
Family-Friendly?
Suites with a sofa bed can accommodate a family of four. Cots and rollaway beds are free. Children are welcome, but there are no special services.
