Peter L.
Yelp
It is one of the more unique & pleasant hotels to stay at with only a few minor inconveniences. Located at a quieter part of downtown, the Hofsas House resembles a fabled Dutch architecture from the 19th century, with wall murals to match.
The main parking lot is located at the back of the building, this can be accessed via an entrance adjacent to the office. Entrance is narrow & has a precipitous drop that can be frightening or thrilling, depending on your cardiac conditions. If you missed this entrance like us, at the end of the hotel there is another hidden unmarked driveway, it's actually a 1-way exit for the main parking lot! There are also 4-5 spots directly in front of the hotel on San Carlos St, but those were usually taken. Additional street parking were plentiful nearby. The office/front lobby is small but has a cozy comfy atmosphere, with inviting couches & fire place. Here can be a cozy place to enjoy coffee or HH beverages during happier times. The lady at the office was very friendly and gave clear and precise instructions.
We got an ocean view King room on 4th floor, there was no elevator. Luckily we only had to drag our dunnage up 1 flight of stairs as we parked on San Carlos. If you park at the main lot beneath you will have to scale several flights of stairs to reach the upper floors. Like most Carmel hotels, "ocean view" essentially meant a glimpse of the sea, but we knew that from past experiences. Our room didn't have a private balcony, but the view from the outside corridor was still lovely. We loved the plantation shutters on the windows as well as the unique Dutch door, it was the first time I have ever seen one. There was also a common area on our floor that serves as a sun deck, with outdoor tables & chairs to boot. It's a great place to sip your drinks while catching some virus-killing UV lights or just simply admiring the sunset.
The reg king room was adequate though not spacious. Naturally the bed took up most of the room, an old fashion TV stand/dresser was a bit obstructive. Illumination was provided by 3 table lamps, they should consider recess lights to free up more precious counter space for guests. A small folding leaf table & 2 chairs served as the dining/work station. One of the leaf did not work and thus we had to eat our meals in a confined fashion. Again the table lamp prob needs to go. The bed itself has a relatively firm & comfy mattress. The pillows were a bit lumpy, thin and relatively small.
You will prob need at least 2 of those per guests.
Bathroom was quite interesting, it's where you will find a mini fridge, coffee maker, coffee mugs & wine glasses. The towels were of descent qualities & were artfully folded. A small wicker basket contained cute items such as shampoos, soaps, lotions, makeup removal wipes & small Purell sanitizing pads. Shower was hot and had good pressure, keep in mind we were there during slow times. The walk-in shower was pentangular and small, if you are 5'7" your head might hit the shower head, if your are 6'3" you will need to stoop once inside. The caddy area was tiny and can only hold bar soaps and small containers.
Our room was located next to the stairs so there were the usual foot traffic noises. In the crack of dawn there were more street noises as the big garbage/recycle trucks announced their presence. I found this fairy consistent in Carmel regardless days of the week.
Breakfast was prepaid for and amazingly they actually served it even during this COVID crisis. It consisted of basic pastries such as danish, juices, fruits (banana, apple and tangerines), Yoplait, a jug of piping hot coffee with packages of creamer and sugar. It wasn't great but I though it adequate and artfully arranged on a tray so you can carry it back to your room.
Overall we quite relished the hospitalities and the uniqueness of Hofsas House, will def consider returning.