Hands-down, this is Astoria’s best hotel. It is beautifully designed and service-oriented, but, because this is Astoria, there is nothing stiff or sniffy about it. The hotel, which opened in 2005, was built atop one of Astoria’s old cannery piers right on the Columbia River, and it takes advantage of its location by offering wonderful river views from every room. The 1-bedroom corner suites with windows on two sides and a walk-out balcony offer the best outlooks; in one of these you could sit for hours, mesmerized, looking out at the mighty Columbia, the ships and the vast span of the Astoria–Megler Bridge (binoculars are provided in every room). Every room has a gas fireplace to cozy things up and a clawfoot-style soaking tub, and shutters that open out from the tub area to the living area and the view beyond. The decor uses light woods and natural fabrics to create an upscale but unobtrusive Northwest style. Onsite is a spa with Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna and a small fitness room; you can also book spa treatments. If it’s a nice day, you can hop on one of the complimentary bikes and go for a spin along Astoria’s 6-mile River Walk; in the evening, the hotel’s vintage chauffeured cars will take you to your restaurant and pick you up. A generous continental breakfast is included in the room rate, as is evening wine and appetizers. All in all, this place is just plain great.