The Hotel Laurel at Seneca

They installed a very large deck with chairs and fire pits (instead of replacing the pool that needed a large investment)to watch the view of the lake and sunset.

The view here is amazing! They have done a great job in updating the property and it’s very clean. However, it is very dark around the unit at night- not safe for walking after dark. There is no exterior lighting around the “100 Units”! We walked in under the light of our cell phones! Please install some low voltage security lighting for your guests. But, the view …did I mention?? It’s incredible!

As other reviews stated, this is a clean and efficient property that has a gorgeous view of the lake. It’s about a mile from downtown. We took advantage of the deck and fire pits in the evening and it was lovely. The rooms are smaller but had everything we needed. We had no issues with the bathroom/shower (other than there was no fan) and the beds were comfortable. Appreciated the in-room fridge and the property was well lit. The motel appears to have three separate buildings: the restaurant/lobby, a set of rooms that are up on the hill, and a set of rooms closer to the water. While they all have water views, If you want to be the closest to the water, you should request not 101-105.

I loved the view across the lake. I was very disappointed as one of the sites i looked at showed a pool. When i got there it was covered by a huge deck. Nice deck but no pool.

Very convenient place to stay, close to Watkins Glen and wineries. Great restaurant on site for breakfast or dinner. Beds were good, room and bathroom was clean. Outside light was bright at night and curtain did not block it out so that was annoying. Otherwise excellent and new large deck with lots of seating to sit out on and enjoy the lake views!

GM was very accommodating. Restaurant staff was wonderful. Restaurant could be open later. Shower design was odd (only 1/2 panel) leading to wet floor. Bathroom was small. Deck with firepits was awesome.

Great view of lake. Internet services not working entire stay. No TV remote in room. Bathroom light flickering on and off. When we called staff somewhere before 9 PM no one answered the phone. Next morning they just brushed it off. Internet was still down and staff said they would tell house keeping about issues but didn’t bother to address immediately.

They’re fixing it up, and we knew that. So I think it was a good location and stay for the price. Hopefully they’ll put more furnishings in the rooms. Our bathroom was huge but no where to set things down, etc. And would be good to have a few glasses or plates for the suite rooms. They don’t have a pool anymore, which I didn’t realize. But I went off of the pictures on other websites so that’s my fault.

limited amenities; parking lot is a mess;

Clean, cozy room with a beautiful balcony. We also loved the communal deck space, which has a gorgeous view of the lake. We used the tables during the day and the fire tables at night.

Always clean and comfortable with great views.

We were pleasantly surprised by this business. It is an old motel that has been thoroughly updated. The rooms were in very good shape, and clean. The view of the lake from the balcony was excellent. And the restaurant on premises was surprisingly good. I would go here again.

Easy parking, nice little balcony with a lake front view, large community deck, courteous staff, recently renovated rooms. I would have given this hotel 5 stars across the board, but I noticed a couple of strands of womans hair on the bathroom floor, most likely from the previous occupant.

The only thing that was as advertised was the proximity to the lake. The room was dated and the rugs seemed to be very 1980 and not very clean. The plumbing was loud and i found a live insect in the shower. Totally regretted staying there.

Nicely remodeled rooms.

Small details with housekeeping need attention

We (two adults two younger kids) came to Watkins Glen for race weekend and this was one of the last places available. We lucked out! This is a clean, comfortable motel with excellent views of Seneca Lake. Kudos to the new owners for breathing new life into the property. If we're back for another race we'll be back.

This hotel is wonderful! The room was clean, linens in great condition and bed comfortable. There's plenty of hot water and good water pressure. I never heard those staying next to my room!!! The view of Seneca Lake was so relaxing. I would stay here again.

The bathroom floor & toilet were not clean-the tv was not plugged in & the remote didn’t work until we got batteries replaced- which Rich was fast to respond. But the TV should be plugged in. Checkout was 11-we left for a bit & had everything out but food & beverages in the fridge. We came back at 10 to check out & the cleaning staff had already cleaned the room & removed our fridge items. Luckily, we saw them coming out of the room & got our items back. The bed was ok, the room itself was not comfortable but was good enough for one night. Great view from the room so that was a plus but overall not as good as it could’ve been.

The sheets weren't cleaned properly. There was what looked like a small blood stain on the comforter. We didn't use it. Luckily it wasn't cold.

50’s property recently renovated was very clean, had a great view of Seneca Lake from the private balcony, great outdoor deck with fire pits to view the lake, and restaurant on site.

My husband and I both loved this place. The room is nice and also large. The mini fridge has a freezer. Whe whole place is cut and has nice touches like a little pumpkin on the patio table (October). We arrived kind of late (glad I called to confirm their limited check-in hours). Check-in was quick and easy. We also had just enough time to eat dinner there since no where else was open in the area. We were happy with the food which had large portions. The atmosphere was also nice. They have a pretty large bar including a wine or beer flight. Wish they had a cider flight. They night we stayed they didn't have the restaurant open this morning. That's okay, we found somewhere in town. I loved sitting on the balcony in the morning. Absolute perfection and the view was good. The only little annoyances was it seems like they might use a mattress protector that makes weird noise when you move. Also for the heat/Ac unit "constant fan" didn't work. Being a light sleeper it kept waking me when it kicked on. I'm still very happy with my stay and would absolutely come back felt like I hit the jackpot with the price, location, and adorable inn. It also helps that the location was just down the road from our plans, Watkins Glen State Park and Captain Bill's.. Shower set up seemed odd to us. Nice aesthetic but I guess we just aren't that hip.

The exterior of the hotel was a little worn but the room was clean and comfortable. We were disappointed that the deluxe queen room was on the ground floor and the lake view was obstructed by parked cars. It looked like rooms above us had a great view of the lake.

Check in was a breeze & the renovated room was nice & spacious. The view of the lake was amazing! We had breakfast at the on site restaurant both mornings & the service & food was excellent. Highly recommend the homemade sausage gravy! Improvements- The tv wasn’t a smart tv which would be preferred to access Netflix, etc. & there was no fan in the bathroom. The parking lot could use some repairs. There was hardly any guests which was quiet but on our 2nd night guests were put in the room between us & another room although there were many other rooms available. The guests were extremely loud. There didn't seem to be much sound proofing between units. Otherwise, the stay was great.

Only real issue is the heater in the room. Constantly fighting it to keep a steady temperature. Wake up sweating, then wake up freezing. Room was super clean and the view and location was perfect.

Bathroom no place for soap or shampoo in the shower area. Large room with no shelving or cabinet to hold your stuff. They have had many reviews without making a change. The shower also needs recaulking these are not big-cost items and would make a big difference. The view is wonderful and very close to town a handy locaction.

Pros: in-room refrigerator, microwave; excellent lighting Cons: lake view NOT as advertised for this room! Required to park directly in front of room, entirely blocking the view, very disappointing as that’s why we chose this hotel; no place in bathroom to set anything down, no fan or window in bathroom; driveway from room parking to street in very bad condition

The room was clean and comfortable, comfortable beds, balcony with view of the lake was awesome! The only negative was the bathroom, particularly the shower. The design of the shower made it impossible to adjust the water without being under it, and the half glass door made it impossible to avoid getting water on the bathroom floor.

Loved our one night stay at The Hotel Laurel. Wish we had stayed a second night. First of all, I can't imagine a better view of Seneca Lake than at this hotel. All rooms have balconies that overlook the lake. And the hotel has a large deck area with tables and chairs where you can sit outside and enjoy the evening air. The hotel had a restaurant and we did have breakfast there and it was quite good. Convenient to Watkins Glen also. The only issue was our balcony door got stuck and would not open when we returned from dinner. We were able to get it open when we first arrived and enjoyed a few minutes looking out at the lake. But for some reason the latch would not open all the way. Not a huge deal and it probably could have been easily fixed by the staff but at that point it was late. Besides I watched the sunrise with a cup of coffee from the aforementioned deck. Also saw a herd of deer walking across the field down below us in the early morning. Absolutely would stay here again.

Very nice, newly remodeled room. Comfortable bed. The staff were so friendly and helpful. Close to everything we wanted to visit. Beautiful views.

The room was nice and the beds very comfortable, not saggy and not super stiff, we both had an amazingly good sleep, which very rarely happens on our first night sleeping in a new place. it was our second time eating dinner at The Laurel’s in house restaurant. There are interesting food choices, the bruschetta with goat cheese was a delight. The only negative is, this is the second time in two years we’ve gone, where the person to seat you, bartender, table busser, and wait staff are all the same person. He managed every table in the restaurant himself, which is not as successful as they might think. The wait for everything from being seated to getting the check was quite long. Being the second time that we’ve hit the “one person runs the whole show” situation, on a Friday night, makes me believe they are opting for this lack of staffing. For the first time we had time for breakfast in the morning, and it was the same exact situation. This time there was a delightful woman who was running around like crazy, seating people, getting coffee, handing out menus and utensils, delivering food, bussing and bringing the check. Although both the night staff person and the morning staff person were very positive, it was a bit uncomfortable, watching them constantly on the run to get something for someone at some table or another. The Santa Fe omelette was outstanding, eggs Benedict were overcooked and bland. We’ll opt to dine in town from now on.

The room was very clean and newly renovated. The staff was extremely accommodating due to not having the office staffed 24/7. All I had to do was call, let them know I was coming after office hours and my room keys were provided in a lock box. I also checked out before office hours the next morning and was able to easily drop my keys in a check out box.

Enjoyed this property with beautiful view from our balcony of Seneca Lake. There are lower rooms, but those would have cars parked where you sit outside your room. I would return and stay again, but only if I could get a balcony room. Staff was welcoming, personable & professional. Spoke with servers, maintenance, front desk check in, etc. ALL were exceptional and I look forward to staying here again. Such a convenient location to downtown Watkins Glen and sights in the surrounding area.

Checking in was very easy and the service at breakfast and generous portions was excellent.

Food was not up to par everything is grilled and tastes like the grill, some servers were not good

Great staff, Great rooms, and wonderful views of Seneca Lake. I grew up on the other side of the lake and I always stay at The Hotel Laurel when I’m in the area.

Great view of lake. Internet services not working entire stay. No TV remote in room. Bathroom light flickering on and off. When we called staff somewhere before 9 PM no one answered the phone. Next morning they just brushed it off. Internet was still down and staff said they would tell house keeping about issues but didn’t bother to address immediately.

The woman who checked us in on her birthday was fabulous. She also worked the restaurant as well. Super friendly and informative. All of the staff were great. There a bonus with a band for fourth of July we didn't know about. Great overall experience.

Balcony has a majestic view, staff is friendly and helpful

Nice motel outside Watkins Glen with wonderful lake views. Rooms were renovated and clean but seemed to lack some finishing touches. Stayed during the week and place was very quiet however the staff at check in was more concerned with watching his inappropriate music videos on TV than checking me in or providing much information about the hotel. While just outside of town it is definitely not walkable to downtown

The Hotel is located in a quiet place which is very suitable for my stay.

great view of the lake from the balconies! nice window in the room that looks over the lake as well. overall a very pleasant experience. it was nice and quiet and the rooms are very updated. the hotel was about 2 minutes down the road from the watkins glen walking area as well as ~4 minutes from watkins glen state park.

Nice hotel cabin style with balcony and views of Lake Seneca about 1 miles from downtown Glen Watkins; easy access and nice renovated rooms - there is a restaurant on site and check in is until 9 pm so one needs to make arrangements for late check in. Easy access to the famous state park and the gorge trail. Would stay again if in the area.

Last minute pick for a hotel but it is a very lovely hotel with beautiful lake views. Nice and quiet and so close to downtown Watkins Glen.

As other reviews stated, this is a clean and efficient property that has a gorgeous view of the lake. It’s about a mile from downtown. We took advantage of the deck and fire pits in the evening and it was lovely. The rooms are smaller but had everything we needed. We had no issues with the bathroom/shower (other than there was no fan) and the beds were comfortable. Appreciated the in-room fridge and the property was well lit. The motel appears to have three separate buildings: the restaurant/lobby, a set of rooms that are up on the hill, and a set of rooms closer to the water. While they all have water views, If you want to be the closest to the water, you should request not 101-105.

Wonderful location overlooking lake seneca. Only 2 mins from marina,state park and downtown shops and dining spots. Room was clean,staff was great. Tbe views from the property were awesome.

This place is right on Seneca Lake. The rooms have balconies that overlook the lake and it’s a beautiful view. It’s conveniently located close to shops, restaurants, and wineries.

it is facing the lake which is good, however, it is close to the road which gets noisy in the morning.

Hotel was just right. Had a great view of the lake and was easy to get places-but had to drive to all locations. Not a walkable area

Perfect location for my waterfalls road trip. Quiet, comfortable, fantastic view. Would be great for a two night stay even though I only stayed for one night. Very nice shower.

Very clean and comfortable. However, the food wasn’t very good.

The room was nice and the beds very comfortable, not saggy and not super stiff, we both had an amazingly good sleep, which very rarely happens on our first night sleeping in a new place. it was our second time eating dinner at The Laurel’s in house restaurant. There are interesting food choices, the bruschetta with goat cheese was a delight. The only negative is, this is the second time in two years we’ve gone, where the person to seat you, bartender, table busser, and wait staff are all the same person. He managed every table in the restaurant himself, which is not as successful as they might think. The wait for everything from being seated to getting the check was quite long. Being the second time that we’ve hit the “one person runs the whole show” situation, on a Friday night, makes me believe they are opting for this lack of staffing. For the first time we had time for breakfast in the morning, and it was the same exact situation. This time there was a delightful woman who was running around like crazy, seating people, getting coffee, handing out menus and utensils, delivering food, bussing and bringing the check. Although both the night staff person and the morning staff person were very positive, it was a bit uncomfortable, watching them constantly on the run to get something for someone at some table or another. The Santa Fe omelette was outstanding, eggs Benedict were overcooked and bland. We’ll opt to dine in town from now on.

Great stay and beautiful view! Hope the restaurant gets better, waited almost 2 hours for our food and ended up getting them in to-go containers. The bartender was sweet though.

The restaurant is overpriced with a limited menu, and doubtful quality of food (found a hair in the meal) though it’s very scenic and service was good.

The hotel was perfect for our friend’s weekend. We had excellent service and meals in the restaurant. Great breakfast and dinners. The views of SENECA LAKE from our room and deck area were fantastic! We will definitely be returning! Hoping that new igloos will be available for outdoor entertainment. It would also be great to have a space within the hotel for guests to gather with key/code access with extended hours. (Bar/lounge area)

It would have been great if the restaurant was open.

Wonderful experience with a lovely room with balcony facing the lake and nice, friendly restaurant which was reasonable and convenient for breakfast. Highly recommend!

The lake view was beautiful. They also had a fabulous deck area with tables chairs to enjoy the view and hangout at. Dining was convenient and could walk up to. Dining room had big windows and view of lake. We ate breakfast & diner there. Food was good. Very convenient to Walkins Glen park and downtown. Great location to many activities.

The view of the lake was awesome from bartender and food was good! Would definitely consider staying here again!

Friendly staff. Great view of the lake. Outstanding value. Restaurant breakfast was very good and reasonably priced.