Hotel Check: Cliffrose Curio Collection by Hilton

WHERE IS IT? Shell had given me a gas card so I could explore some of the suggested road trips on their StateEscape website,  and this hotel fit perfectly into my plans. The hotel is within walking distance to the entrance of Zion National Park, one of Utah’s Big Five national parks. In addition, there are numerous shuttle stops that take guests into the park. Its garden surroundings sit in the shadows of Zion Canyon and along the Virgin River, and deer often roam through the parking lot and past the accommodation buildings, much to the delight of guests.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? This family-owned boutique hotel recently joined the Hilton family as a Curio Collection by Hilton property meaning guests qualify for Hilton Honors points earning, redemption, and elite benefits. The small entrance hides the rest of the shady gardens and pool below with beautiful views of the river and soaring canyon cliffs. It’s a peaceful oasis in bustling, tourist-heavy Springdale; many of the patios have hummingbird feeders to draw the chirping birds. This is one of the main entry points into the park, and as a result, Springdale can get relatively busy in comparison to other towns in southern Utah. The lobby has some conversation seating areas, a small gift shop, complimentary coffee from a local roastery, and incredibly friendly service. During my visit, COVID-19 safety protocols were in full effect meaning masks were required and social distancing signage was everywhere. Instead of bottled water in rooms, guests were free to help themselves to as much bottled water as they want from reception. Sanitizing stations in and around the lobby were appreciated, and guests were all willing to comply so that they can safely spend more time exploring the state’s beautiful parks.

ROOM FACILITIES No two rooms here are alike. They are situated in low-rise buildings each with different views from the gardens to the cliffs to the river. Light and airy décor matches the nature-filled grounds, and the bedding is soft and comfy (just what guests want after a day of hiking through the park’s many trails). Bright bathrooms stock fragrant toiletries and plenty of towels including dark towels for removing makeup (without staining the hotel’s white terrycloth towels). Several suites are in the mix including a separate villa building that can be sold as individual rooms or connected via a shared kitchen and dining area to become a private, two-bedroom villa. Most rooms have furnished decks or patios from which to enjoy the garden views.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS Anthera is the hotel’s main restaurant serving three meals a day, including by the pool. During my visit, the dining room was closed, but diners can place orders for in-room or poolside delivery, which was great. I had a tasty goat cheese and tomato salad with homemade pesto; other options on the menu included hearty burgers, creative salads, and freshly caught salmon. Gold and Diamond members in Hilton Honors are treated especially well here with complimentary breakfast among their many perks.

LEISURE FACILITIES The heated outdoor swimming pool has beautiful cliff views and is surrounded by cushioned lounge chairs. It’s a wonderful respite from the hot and dry climate of the Utah desert in summer. The patio and fire pit are great places to unwind after a day in the park. There’s also free bike storage for guests, which is appreciated since bikes are understandably not allowed in the rooms. Kids can avail themselves of a small playground, and adults will have their own option for entertainment when a new spa eventually opens.

BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES Free wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel including by the pool.

VERDICT This is a convenient, relaxed-setting hotel near the park entrance that provides comfortable, upscale accommodations. Springdale has a lot of great options, but this is perhaps its best full-service hotel.

HOW MANY ROOMS? 49 rooms and suites

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS Walking distance to Zion National Park and stunning views of its towering cliffs

PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $125

CONTACT 281 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, Utah, 84767. curiocollection3.hilton.com