Anchor In Hotel

The hotel’s unassuming exterior architecture belies its richer, high-end-home interiors, all of which are a step above the often frilly or bare bones alternatives in the area. While its amenities mark it as a mid-range property, everything on the inside feels much more up-market. The look is an impeccable take on a New England inn, with a warm yellow color palette, warm wood and granite surfaces, leather seating, and hardwood flooring. Several distinct social spaces are peppered throughout the property, though the vibe here is distinctly laid back. A heated, water-view pool serves as the outdoor centerpiece while a sunroom and small library with a fireplace provide a cozy, indoor retreat to kick back with a book. Children are allowed on the property, however, the atmosphere is reserved, elegant, and more adult-centric -- expect to see plenty of couples here.

Located a few blocks off Hyannis’ popular Main Street, the hotel is a 10- to 15-minute walk from dozens of bars, restaurants, and shops. A number of other popular attractions, including the JFK Museum and Cape Cod Maritime Museum, are likewise a short walk away. The Steamship Authority ferry terminal is only three minutes away on foot, providing easy access to Nantucket Island for day trips. Alternative area day trips include 30 minutes to Chatham, where shark-spotting has been booming, and a one-hour drive to Provincetown, the funky artists' community at the tip of the Cape.

The hotel is 90 minutes from both Logan International Airport in Boston and T.F. Green Airport in Providence, assuming light traffic. Unfortunately, for out-of-town visitors, central Cape Cod is not readily accessible via any form of public transportation. The best option for most travelers is to rent a car, but keep in mind that getting onto the Cape by car in the summer can take far longer than other times of year. For travelers looking to make the limited and more expensive flight directly into Barnstable Municipal Airport, the hotel is only five minutes away.

The decor in every individually designed room is elegant and understated, with a cream and gray color palette lending a beachy vibe to the homey furnishings. High-end materials abound, including ash hardwood flooring, mahogany nightstands, wainscoting, and crown moulding. The look is far more polished than many two- and three-pearl options in the area, and a welcome step up when it comes to style.

The hotel offers three tiers of rooms. Entry-level Traditional Rooms offer water views of Hyannis Harbor. Deluxe Rooms offer more modern furnishings, plus a private deck with excellent water views. Both Traditional and Deluxe Room categories offer either a single bed (a queen or king) or a two double-bed configuration. The property’s top-tier Executive Rooms are its largest and provide only a single bed (a queen or double), plus a foldout sofa bed to accommodate up to four guests. These rooms also offer private, 40-foot decks with sweeping harbor views.

Modern amenities in every room include flat-screen TVs, DVD players, coffeemakers, air-conditioning, and most feature mini-fridges (not available in some Traditional Rooms). The Barnstable Village Room that we visited included a microwave. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the hotel, including the rooms. We found the service to be fast and reliable during our visit. Beds in all rooms feature down duvets and are widely reviewed as plush and comfortable.

Bathrooms are spacious, with a modern-home look. They include pedestal sinks in many rooms -- though Executive Rooms have large vanities as well -- plus modern fixtures high-end neutral tiling on the walls and floors. Most entry and mid-level rooms offer shower/tub combinations. However, upgraded Executive Rooms offer spacious stand-up shower stalls with benches and mosaic tile inlays. Full-size hairdryers and Gilchrist & Soames Spa Therapy bath products are provided in every room.

Anchor In Hotel offers a surprising number of amenities for a smaller, three-pearl property. The heated outdoor pool, library with fireplace, and excellent harbor views are among its most noteworthy features. The free continental breakfast served daily in the sunroom is an additional nice-to-have.

Near the tiny reception area, a cozy reading library acts as the hotel’s main indoor relaxation area. Hardwood flooring, cream walls and accents, granite cafe tables, and a ring of leather chairs surrounding a fireplace provide an atmosphere that’s elegant and relaxing. A dozen small shelves provide a makeshift lending library, while coffee, tea, and snacks are available throughout the day.

An immaculate, heated outdoor pool is the centerpiece of the hotel’s outdoor courtyard. While modestly sized, both the pool and deck are large enough for this compact hotel. Standard cloth and plastic lounge chairs line two sides of the pool, however, the lack of umbrellas mean the deck is completely exposed to the sun. A stepped series of smaller decks leads down to the marina, each providing additional seating and excellent water views. Adjacent to the water, a large stone terrace with a beautiful fire pit serves as the primary nighttime social hub. Like the hotel’s other common areas, the vibe of the outdoor space is relaxed and reserved.

While the hotel lacks a full-service restaurant, a gourmet continental breakfast is served daily in the on-site chef’s kitchen. The selection includes the standard array of yogurt, bagels, pastries, and fresh fruit. However, the quality of food is distinctly above what’s available at a typical mid-range chain hotel, though admittedly some hot options would be nice.

An off-street lot provides ample parking for guests. Like much of Cape Cod, the area around the hotel is safe and secure. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.