Name: The Cottages Hotel
Address: 1704 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, California, United States of America, Menlo Park, California, US
Price range: US$194–US$474 per night
Rating: 9.15

What guests think

Travellers praise The Cottages Hotel for spotless, newly renovated rooms, a standout complimentary hot breakfast with an excellent espresso machine, friendly staff, and a quiet, leafy setting set back from El Camino Real near Stanford and Menlo Park.

Many appreciate the courtyard with fire pit, pool, small gym, free laundry, easy parking, and thoughtful touches like private patios. Some note occasional noise from trains or HVAC, rare service lapses, and practical gaps such as no in-room microwave or an unheated/closed pool. Overall, expect a modern boutique stay with strong value in Menlo Park.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Courtyard with fire pit, pool, small gym, free laundry, easy parking, and a 24/7 espresso machine earn strong praise. A few noted a closed or cold pool and wished for in-room microwaves or fridges.

Related guest reviews

10

Laura

13 Oct 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

We had a delightful stay, and we were able to bring our grandson and swim in the pool, which was lovely.

10

Tatsiana

28 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 12 nights

Spent two weeks travelling on business and, as an experienced and frequent traveler, I can 100% vouch for choosing this hotel as your next option to stay in Northern California. This place is truly a hidden gem for those travelling to the Stanford-Palo Alto area for business or leisure. Nested in the shade of tall oaks right off the main local road, El Camino Real, it is so conveniently located that it takes you only 10 minutes to commute to the Stanford campus, 30 minutes to SFO, and 40-60 minutes to San Francisco and amazing coastal beaches. The hotel service will pleasantly surprise you with incomparable value for money. Just some highlights of their service include very private, well-maintained, quiet, and pristine clean rooms, each with a cozy little backyard; first-class breakfast featuring numerous options for eggs, meats, milk product, juices, fruit, pastries, etc.; 24/7 available Swiss coffee machine with 15+ drink options to choose from; spacious and clean pool area in a serene tree-abundant inner yard; outdoor fireplace with tables and chairs; on-site FREE LG washer/dryer with complimentary detergent joined with a small but very decent gym having new and upscaled equipment; and this list can go on. The cherry on top is the outstanding hospitality and class of service demonstrated by the hotel staff - receptionists, room service, or maintenance pros - they were all very helpful, friendly, and proactive. Kudos to this boutique hotel's team. It feels like home!

10

Catharine

30 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is a gem. Delicious breakfast. Really nice and accommodating staff. Gorgeous property with outdoor seating and a pool. Even though the place is small- they still have a laundry facility and small but great gym. Plus easy parking.

8

Dawn

18 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Cute grounds with lovely tall trees. The pool was freezing and unusable; it was similar to a cold plunge pool. Breakfast was ok, not great, but the morning staff at the buffet were friendly and helpful. Easy access to restaurants nearby.

8

Ross

24 Feb 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The pool was closed.

10

Melissa

7 Oct 2024

·

Stayed 7 nights

The hotel has a homey,modern vibe. (Think Arhaus style.) The pool was fantastic! The workout room was very nice and the area surrounding the hotel was wonderful for a nice, safe run. We especially loved the use of the washer and dryer( detergent and dryer sheets provided) The bed was super comfortable and room decor was super cool! The breakfasts were AMAZING and we loved the use of the high end coffee/ espresso machine in the lobby. This high end, boutique style hotel has thought of everything and it shows! We are even ordering the refreshing LATHER lemongrass/bamboo body wash from the shower for use at home! Staff was very friendly and accommodating. 5 stars!!!

10

Musette

26 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Great remodel. Picturesque. Pool is inviting and great temp. Very lush and well designed.

10

Dan

14 Sept 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Cozy place. Nice and quiet. Has a nice patio and pool I wish I could have used more. Breakfast was good, not your typical fake eggs and fake food, so it was healthy choice with homemade oatmeal and an excellent coffee machine.

10

Adele

24 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Just needs a microwave in rooms and a fridge for longer stays

10

Amanda

29 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Everything from arrival to checkout was perfect. We loved the style of the remodel. I felt like I should be paying for breakfast because it was so good. Workout room had a peloton! And laundry with complimentary soap. Also 24 hour coffee from a legit espresso machine. My sister already rebooked.

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Cleanliness

Cleanliness is a standout theme, with many calling rooms and grounds spotless or immaculate. Maintenance and upkeep are consistently praised.

Related guest reviews

10

Shaun

28 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean through out property and room. Friendly and professional staff. Had a very pleasant stay.

10

Sean

8 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very nice, clean, well managed place.

10

Ani

29 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Extremely clean, good parking and front desk service.

10

Tom

13 Sept 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

One of the best places I ever have stayed for that cost. Immaculate, great breakfast , updated rooms, nice surroundings. You won’t be disappointed

10

Hongfei

29 Jan 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

it's very clean and new

10

Shannon

14 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

I visit Palo Alto a couple of times a year and have decided to stay here every time. The rooms are clean and thoughtfully designed, the grounds are beautiful, and parking is easy. Can’t ask for much more. Looking forward to staying here again!

10

Shannon

31 May 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is a little gem in Menlo Park. Exceptionally clean, very well maintained, nice staff, little touches like complimentary coffee and breakfast were a hit with our group. By far one of the best places we’ve stayed in the Bay Area! Will definitely revisit!

10

Janalee

3 Apr 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The cleanest hotel I’ve ever stayed at.

10

ILKYU

9 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The hotel provided a truly restful experience. The pristine environment was immediately noticeable and appreciated. Every surface gleamed, and the air smelled fresh and inviting. The comfortable furnishings encouraged relaxation after a long day. Soft linens and plush seating added to the overall sense of ease. It was clear that attention to detail was a priority throughout the establishment. From the lobby to the guest rooms, everything felt carefully considered for maximum comfort. This level of cleanliness and comfort created a truly memorable stay.

10

miranda

16 May 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

The room was super clean and quiet.

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Rooms

Newly renovated, stylish rooms with comfortable beds and private patios/balconies; some are on the smaller side. A few guests report noise from HVAC, trains, or thin walls, and minor quibbles like limited bedside outlets.

Related guest reviews

10

Judith

12 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Lovely property set back from busy El Camino Real so noise isn't a factor. Well thought out rooms with plenty of space for storing one's own things. Squeaky clean! Only downside is noisy, wall, HVAC unit that clicked off and on all night. They provide earplugs but I didn't use them. I will return despite strong preference for central heating/cooling controlled by thermostat.

10

Marci

29 Dec 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Updated rooms, quiet environment, helpful staff, over the top ammenities. What more could anyone ask for? Some small recommendations to make it 100% perfect: Check the flooring in the rooms, there are some gaps that are unsightly. I missed having no power or USB outlets by the bed. The rainfall showerhead it amazing, but with such a small shower it can be uncomfortable. But really, just suggestions, there are no real downsides to staying here from my experience.

10

Rosana

30 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

It was a bit noisy due to the proximity of the train tracks you can hear the train. Besides that it’s an amazing venue to stay at.

10

Donald A

7 Oct 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Each room was tastefully done and every room had an individual patio garden. It was lovely. The staff was great.

10

Lorene

4 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Love this hotel - my room had a view of the pool but didn't look into any other rooms. Great breakfast, coffee choices. Great location. Friendly front desk service.

10

Loren

17 Dec 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

This was the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in and I travel for a living. The rooms are very nice ceiling fan, great bathroom and great amenities. Only possible complaint would be the room didn’t have many outlets to charge things. That’s all. 10/10

10

Carol

26 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The sheets are sub-par! Very rough. And mattress fair.

8

Robin

9 Feb 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Have stayed 3 times, works for an easy and economical overnight in Menlo Park/Palo Alto area. Updated motel with two stories and inner courtyard, modern vibe. Comfortable rooms and great espresso machine in lobby. Only as quiet as your nextdoor neighbor though, as the walls are unfortunately thin.

10

Collette

3 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This was my first stay and The Cottages and won't be my last. The grounds are well manicured and inviting, complete with comfortable outdoor furniture in a courtyard with a large fireplace. My room had it's own private patio with table and chairs. The rooms were spotless and modern, with automatic ambient lighting, wood floors, attractive decor, and a luxurious shower space. All the little details were taken care of. The breakfast was delicious, with many offerings, stoneware plates and gold flatware. So many nice extra touches. This is my new favorite place to stay when I come visit my son at Menlo College (and it's right across the street from the school!).

10

Todd

28 Sept 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was on the smaller side but very very clean and had everything you could think of. The decor was spot on. We were in town for a local soccer tournament. It was nice to have a quiet nights sleep without doors constantly slamming or people running up and down hallways. Parking was so easy. We will be staying again.

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Service

Reviews consistently highlight warm, helpful staff and attentive service. There are a few reports of unfriendly front-desk interactions or rigid cancellation policies.

Related guest reviews

10

Kim

23 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

I cannot say enough about this amazing hotel! From the incredible staff, beautiful rooms, well thought out amenities, nice breakfast and great location - everything was perfect! We even received a follow up message letting us know we had left something in the room and they offered to ship it back to us. Such a gem!

10

MICHAEL LOUIS JR

13 May 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

I was beyond impressed with the staff and property. We will continue to stay in this hidden gem.

10

Felicia

13 Oct 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Everything, I mean EVERYTHING, was wonderful. Staff was friendly and helpful. Room was beautiful, clean and comfortable. Felt like a high end boutique hotel. I loved having my own little outdoor space. Will definitely be back.

4

David

12 Dec 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

I had a one night trip to Menlo Park, which I had to cancel when my flight was severely delayed and then cancelled due to weather (causing me to miss my meeting). When I returned home from the airport, I called the hotel to let them know I wouldn't be able to make it that night. I had a non-refundable reservation, so didn't expect to get my money back, but thought I might get a discount or credit for a future stay (I travel there regularly). The person at the desk was not very friendly and simply told me I had a non-refundable reservation. I told them that they could go ahead and rent the room as I wouldn't be using it (and they were sold out), but would appreciate a credit if they did so. The person I talked to said he wasn't authorized to make that decision, which I understood, so I asked to speak to the manager. The manager wasn't there at the time, so I asked the person to have the manager call me back, which he said they would. I never heard a thing...

10

Israel

16 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

front desk staff not friendly showed also with a service dog and was asked to leave the dining area which is against ada rules

10

Erin

16 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great and convenient place to stay. Not directly on the main road so it was quieter. Super accommodating staff - allowed us to check in early. Great amenities - 24 hour self serve espresso machine, ice cold water, and hot breakfast (refilled fresh a number of times through service). Loved the Lather products in the room, too. Highly recommend!

2

Jules

13 Apr 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

We loved everything about this hotel except for the attitude of the front desk employee who checked us in. He acted as though we were an inconvenience.

10

Scott

1 Apr 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Jack is a great front desk guy. They could use a sign which says "Office" or "Front Desk" or something. Its confusing when you arrive. GREAT remodel. We'll be back.

10

Melissa

24 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Beautiful property and incredibly kind staff

10

Jackson

15 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Very helpful staff

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Location

Set back from El Camino Real, the hotel is convenient to Stanford, Menlo College, and local restaurants, with many noting a quiet environment. A few mention it’s a bit removed from downtown and easier with a car.

Related guest reviews

10

Samuel

29 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Room was comfortable and quiet. Hotel is back from busy street and designed with noise barrier to keep it quiet. Delicious breakfast with espresso machine and office staffed 24/7. Great convenient location.

10

Abed

23 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

Great service & location

10

Tatsiana

28 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 12 nights

Spent two weeks travelling on business and, as an experienced and frequent traveler, I can 100% vouch for choosing this hotel as your next option to stay in Northern California. This place is truly a hidden gem for those travelling to the Stanford-Palo Alto area for business or leisure. Nested in the shade of tall oaks right off the main local road, El Camino Real, it is so conveniently located that it takes you only 10 minutes to commute to the Stanford campus, 30 minutes to SFO, and 40-60 minutes to San Francisco and amazing coastal beaches. The hotel service will pleasantly surprise you with incomparable value for money. Just some highlights of their service include very private, well-maintained, quiet, and pristine clean rooms, each with a cozy little backyard; first-class breakfast featuring numerous options for eggs, meats, milk product, juices, fruit, pastries, etc.; 24/7 available Swiss coffee machine with 15+ drink options to choose from; spacious and clean pool area in a serene tree-abundant inner yard; outdoor fireplace with tables and chairs; on-site FREE LG washer/dryer with complimentary detergent joined with a small but very decent gym having new and upscaled equipment; and this list can go on. The cherry on top is the outstanding hospitality and class of service demonstrated by the hotel staff - receptionists, room service, or maintenance pros - they were all very helpful, friendly, and proactive. Kudos to this boutique hotel's team. It feels like home!

10

James

22 May 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The Cottages Hotel is strong on service, extremely clean and comfortable and amazingly quiet (thanks to being set back from El Camino Dr). The location is a bit removed from downtown Menlo Park, so perhaps best for those with a car or who don't mind being one of the few people walking along busy roads. I would happily stay here again.

10

Robert

8 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Quiet, clean walking distance to restaurants and the Guild

10

Anne

24 Dec 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Centrally located, but quiet location in Atherton. The hotel is quaint and small, and recently remodeled- very comfortable! Excellent breakfast and coffee options.

10

Antonia

9 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Such a lovely hotel in a great location!

10

Karen

1 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The property was located close to several Stanford University Medical Center campuses. Easy access to and from Stanford.

10

Michelle

26 Mar 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

One of our favorite hotels. It’s so convenient, especially if you’re attending Menlo College events.

10

Sarah

22 Sept 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nicely appointed rooms and property. Walkable location to restaurants.

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Dining

Breakfast is widely praised for quality and variety, and the 24/7 espresso machine is a standout perk. A few found breakfast just okay, but most feedback is very positive.

Related guest reviews

10

Judith

12 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Lovely property set back from busy El Camino Real so noise isn't a factor. Well thought out rooms with plenty of space for storing one's own things. Squeaky clean! Only downside is noisy, wall, HVAC unit that clicked off and on all night. They provide earplugs but I didn't use them. I will return despite strong preference for central heating/cooling controlled by thermostat.

8

Ophelia

13 Aug 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

Food choices were ok, Bed was comfortable

10

Jackie

23 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 8 nights

Wonderful stay at The Cottages! Breakfasts were outstanding, 24/7 coffee station a plus, property was very nicely appointed, & all the staff super friendly!

10

Kimberly

26 Apr 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Everything was great! The rooms were stylish, clean and comfortable. The breakfast was delicious and the staff was very accommodating. We will definitely return next time we are in the area.

10

Leslie

2 Jun 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Wonderful location. Beautiful property. Excellent breakfast.

8

Dawn

18 Mar 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Cute grounds with lovely tall trees. The pool was freezing and unusable; it was similar to a cold plunge pool. Breakfast was ok, not great, but the morning staff at the buffet were friendly and helpful. Easy access to restaurants nearby.

10

ANDREA

6 Oct 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Breakfast was great and offered good diversification in choice. The spaces for gathering or privacy were outstanding the staff was first rate, so courteous and helpful.

10

Sandy

5 May 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Friendly staff, clean facilities, awesome buffet-style breakfast. I would highly recommend this place.

10

Berta

20 Dec 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Fresh, healthy and and varied breakfast choices Fabulous high-end Franke coffee machine. Comfortable, clean rooms with nice amenities. Numerous indoor and outdoor areas to relax. This please is a real find!!

10

Amanda

29 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Everything from arrival to checkout was perfect. We loved the style of the remodel. I felt like I should be paying for breakfast because it was so good. Workout room had a peloton! And laundry with complimentary soap. Also 24 hour coffee from a legit espresso machine. My sister already rebooked.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $369	2 $261	3 $256
4 $238	5 $473	6 $380	7 $474	8 $358	9 $254	10 $238
11 $229	12 $377	13 $404	14 $377	15	16	17
18 $194	19 $309	20	21 $384	22 $344	23 $274	24 $273
25 $194	26 $309	27 $318	28 $318	29 $265	30 $212	31 $212

The Cottages Hotel

About this property

Location

Room options

Superior Double Room

Deluxe Double Room

Superior Single Room

Deluxe Single Room

Standard Single Room

Guest reviews of The Cottages Hotel

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

FAQs about The Cottages Hotel

Prices for upcoming dates

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20 $346	21	22	23	24 $354	25 $271	26
27 $224	28 $367	29	30