We arrived Friday afternoon excited to stay at the fairly new Aloft after staying down the road at Holiday Inn the past couple years for the wine festival. Part of the reason for the change was because we were bringing our dog along and Aloft touts itself as a "dog friendly" hotel.

When we arrived, we were not greeted by anyone but the bartender and stood at an empty front desk until a rather unpleasant woman made her way begrudgingly to the desk as if we had interrupted her nap. No hello, no smile, no "welcome." She checked us in with no personality at all and we went on our way. Even though we obviously had our dog with us, and it was listed in our reservation notes, no one ever offered the treats, dog bed, or toys that are advertised on their website as "welcoming your pet as part of your family." That was disappointing.

The grounds are nice, the lobby trendy but loud on weekends, and the rooms have a nice setup. Everything was pretty clean. The pillows are too big (they should have more options) and the bed left a lot to be desired. I agree with other posters that the window in the bathroom is a bit awkward if you are not staying with a significant other. Overall, disappointing from the first impression.

After staying in several traditional hotels during the past week, Aloft was a break from the conventional room. The hotel/room reminds me of a cross between the Hard Rock and the W Hotel chains (actually, Aloft is in the W family). It's sleek and interesting. Trendy. The lobby is a large open space with an open front desk area, a bar, and pool table. The hotel is more suited for couples v. families. There is a very good small gym and a nice indoor pool.

The rooms are a good size and follow in the sleek/modern look. The hotel leaves a couple of bottles of gratis water in the room, which is a nice touch. The beds and linens are very comfortable. The rooms don't have a great deal of light (e.g., for reading), but are fine for everyday use.

We stayed only one night, but it was very pleasant.

Prior to this weekend I had never heard of the ALoft brand by Sheraton / W. We only stumbled on it because we needed a hotel in Winchester VA that took pets. Normally I avoid hotels that take pets because they tend to be hotels that are past their prime. We were in a pinch though for dog care so we took a chance and I'm very, very glad we did.

This is an extraordinary hotel. Exceedingly well designed with European style lines and new approaches at every turn for taking care of guests. The room had a wonderfully modern bathroom with a gargantuan slider door that separates the shower and toilet from the sink area. Looking for the closet? The closet has been reinvented...words are hard to explain but the approach is brilliant for hotel use. Beds...great. Exercise room and pool looked fantastic. Mr. Clean would be proud. Exceedingly friendly staff that put up with way too much noise from dog...kids...etc.

A review though must be balanced. The couple we stayed with heard elevator music throughout the night. Also, the water pressure was a bit low (I expect this is out of environmental concerns). I should be okay with a green shower but I'd rather indulge on vacation.

All in all, a splendid experience.

Well done Starwood!

Stayed here a few times. Not only are they pet freindly, but the place is neat and clean. The front desk is very accomodating too. I'd stay here any time I'm in the area. I've stayed in Aloft hotels in other places and I really like the modern sleek style of the room.