Unlike anything else in Northern Arizona, High Country Motor Lodge is a beautiful, new boutique hotel in Flagstaff located along historic Route 66.
Created by Classic Hotels — the hospitality development and management company responsible for the beloved The Scott Resort in Scottsdale — High Country Motor Lodge features the charm and attention to detail you would expect from their portfolio of thoughtfully designed hotels and resorts.
The $13-million renovation of what was once a roadside motel has resulted in a charming and unique new Flagstaff hotel offering 123 rooms, three private cottage suites and two junior suites. What is most impressive about this property is its common spaces which include 3,500 square feet of outdoor meeting and event space, a great lawn, a fully renovated pool with the forthcoming addition of a Nordic spa that will include an oversized hot tub and two private saunas, and an indoor/outdoor bar and restaurant.
From the rooms to the lobby, you can see the thoughtfulness that went into selecting every piece of art, light fixture and piece of furniture. The decor combines a vintage style with rustic elements and astrological accents that create an elevated–yet casual experience. The hotel is both modern and a throwback, honoring Flagstaff’s rich history while offering modern conveniences like 24-hour self-check-in via iPad.
“Our goal was to incorporate the rich astrological history of Flagstaff, while also creating an environment that blends elements of a retro 1960’s lounge with modern mountain design,” says Alexa Nafisi-Movaghar, principle with ADean Studios, who played an important role in the property’s vision and programming. “The entire property showcases a darker color palette accented with rustic woods and 1960s-inspired fixtures and furnishings,” Nafisi-Movaghar adds. “Inspired by the local lifestyle of adventure seekers, day-sleepers and night-watchers, the great lawn, private cottages, and the Nordic Spa have been designed to enhance the outdoor experience, constantly reminding guests of the beautiful nature that surrounds.”
The guest rooms —which were fully renovated from the former motel that occupied the space — burst with retro charm with throwback touches like an old cassette player (which doubles as a Bluetooth speaker) adorning your nightstand. Other features in the rooms include all-new natural wood flooring, plush pillow-top mattresses with high-thread-count linen (truly one of the most comfortable beds we have ever slept in) and midcentury furnishings with contemporary accents to complete the look.
In the large, beautiful lobby you will find The General Store, which offers grab-and-go provisions, lattes and nostalgic trinkets such as Polaroid cameras. The adjacent restaurant and lounge serve fresh-cooked pizzas and sandwiches, craft beer and cocktails and opens up to the great lawn, where you’ll find cozy seating and firepits. Right off the lounge is a Game Room with shuffleboard, pool and board games, and a 1,500-sq.-ft. state-of-the-art meeting room.
As previously mentioned, this lovely boutique hotel in Flagstaff will also debut Arizona’s first Nordic Spa Experience. Their interpretation of a centuries-old tradition is said to soothe the mind and body by alternating between a hot tub and a cold plunge. Private saunas will be available by appointment for individuals or groups of up to four people. This can serve as a relaxing, spa-like experience or recovery from a long mountain hike, bike ride or other quintessential Flagstaff outdoor activity.
Additional unique and thoughtful touches at High Country Motor Lodge include artwork that was specially curated and includes large tapestry prints of Katie Lee — author, singer and adventurer most fondly known as The Goddess of Glen Canyon. Collaborating with The Numero Group, the hotel has also assembled a collection of analog mixtapes that pay homage to the road trip era with timeless classics like “Daytripping” and “Because the Night.” The sets are available for purchase in The General Store for $45 and are a staple in each guestroom.
Another element that distinguishes High Country Motor Lodge from other hotels in Flagstaff is the fact that it is one of the most pet-friendly properties in the area. A few stipulations: Your furry friends must weigh no more than 50 pounds, with a two-pet limit of 75 pounds combined, and there is a quite reasonable $100 non-refundable pet fee that is due upon check-in. Pet-sitting, grooming and walking service recommendations are available upon request.
Looking for a northern escape? This new boutique hotel in Flagstaff is now accepting reservations. To book a stay and learn more about High Country Motor Lodge, visit highcountrymotorlodge.com.
1000 W. Route 66
Flagstaff, AZ 86001