GuestHouse Lodge celebrates hotel's new look

PONDERAY — After years of hard work, the GuestHouse Lodge is ready to show off its new look.

It’s been a transformational period for the hotel, which has gone through a complete renovation to find a characterizing niche in the local lodging and hospitality market. According to business associate Cinthia Rice, the entire hotel has been transformed into a lodge that she feels better represents the North Idaho character.

“The entire hotel has been remodeled inside and out,” she said. “We’ve essentially gone from a Super 8-style budget hotel to a middle class lodge-style hotel.”

Business managers intend to introduce the newly-renovated hotel at an open house set for 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12. The afternoon event will feature complimentary wine, beer, punch and hors d’oeuvres. Meanwhile, representatives from community businesses can take place in a variety of promotional perks. They can toss their business card into a drawing for a chance at a $100 gift card. Every business represented at the open house will receive a free night’s stay at the hotel, and everyone will receive a coupon for a 50 percent-off stay at any of the chain’s locations.

The open house is an appropriate show of hospitality given the GuestHouse Lodge’s business goals, Rice said. Every renovation decision has been tailored to make the location inviting and comfortable. Rooms are redecorated with a rustic sensibility and modern comforts like flatscreen TVs. Meanwhile, the lobby and exterior are completely redone, offering the perfect setting for guests after a long day hitting the slopes or the lake.

“Even for people who are here on business, we want this to feel like a mini-vacation,” Rice said.

More than anything, however, GuestHouse Lodge representatives are excited to operate a location in the Sandpoint area, Rice said. The community, natural beauty and outdoor recreation all add up to a great place to live. With that in mind, hotel managers aim to reflect that local experience for their guests.

“It was vital to reposition ourselves in the market and offer that North Idaho experience people want,” Rice said.