A Night of Refined Luxury: Our Stay at the Intercontinental Bellevue
First Impressions ★★★★★
Upon arriving at the Intercontinental Bellevue after our long drive from Leavenworth WA, we were immediately struck by the hotel’s impressive façade and strategic location in downtown Bellevue. The property exudes contemporary elegance with its glass-and-steel architecture that seamlessly blends into the upscale Bellevue skyline. The valet service was prompt and courteous, setting a positive tone for our one-night stay.
Check-In Experience ★★★★☆
The check-in process was efficient and professional. The front desk staff greeted us warmly and processed our reservation without delay. We appreciated the thorough explanation of the hotel’s amenities and the personalizable digital room keys available through their mobile app. The recognition of our Platinum status was handled smoothly, with a pleasant surprise of complimentary breakfast credits that proved quite valuable. The lobby itself merits mention – tastefully decorated for the holiday season with sophisticated Christmas décor that enhanced the luxurious atmosphere without appearing excessive.
The only odd thing that happened at Check-In was that the front desk staff was very animated when informing us that the breakfast credits did not cover taxes and fees. I thought that was quite odd because the breakfast credit per person wouldn’t even cover an entree!
Accommodations ★★★★★
Our Deluxe King Room on the 18th floor offered impressive views of the Bellevue skyline and distant glimpses of Lake Washington. The 450-square-foot space was thoughtfully designed with a harmonious blend of functionality and comfort. The king-sized bed featured premium linens that provided exceptional comfort, while the plush seating area by the window created an ideal spot for enjoying morning coffee.
The bathroom deserves particular praise for its marble finishes, walk-in rainfall shower, and Byredo toiletries – a high-end touch that demonstrates the property’s attention to detail. The technological amenities included a 55-inch smart TV, numerous well-placed charging ports, and an intuitive lighting system that could be adjusted to various moods.
Dining ★★★★★
Although our brief stay limited our dining experiences, we did take a look at the hotel’s signature restaurant. The menu showcased Pacific Northwest cuisine with an international influence. The menu and the selection of local wines demonstrated the restaurant’s commitment to regional flavors and quality ingredients.
The breakfast was either a buffet or a la carte downstairs at the lobby. The following morning, we decided to order a la carte after seeing the buffet was not all that special. The breakfast credit was a delightful surprise, we didn’t think we would receive a breakfast credit for platinum status but we took it without further questions. The a la carte extensive selection included both continental and hot options, with particular standouts being the made-to-order omelets and artisanal pastries. The quality and variety of the breakfast offerings were exceptional, making it one of the highlights of our stay.
Amenities and Services ★★★★☆
While our short stay didn’t allow us to fully utilize all amenities, we did explore the fitness center, which was well-equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and strength-training equipment. The indoor pool area was inviting with its temperature-controlled water and adjacent hot tub, though time constraints prevented us from taking advantage of these facilities.
The business center provided all necessary services, and the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property maintained consistent connectivity – an essential feature for travel bloggers like ourselves.
Location ★★★★★
The Intercontinental Bellevue’s location is undoubtedly one of its strongest assets. Situated in the heart of downtown Bellevue, the hotel provides convenient access to premium shopping at Bellevue Square Mall (within walking distance) and numerous high-end dining options nearby. For business travelers, the proximity to major corporate offices makes this property particularly valuable.
Value Assessment ★★★☆☆
At approximately $450 per night in December, the Intercontinental Bellevue positions itself in the luxury market segment. While this represents a significant investment for a single night, the comprehensive quality of accommodations, service excellence, and prime location provide reasonable value for discerning travelers seeking a premium experience.
One notable area for improvement is the parking situation. The hotel’s valet parking is exceptionally expensive, prompting us to seek alternatives. We discovered a nearby public parking lot that offered rates at a fraction of the hotel’s prices—a worthwhile tip for future guests looking to optimize their budget without compromising convenience.
Final Thoughts ★★★★☆
Our one-night stay at the Intercontinental Bellevue left us with a favorable impression. The property successfully delivers on the brand’s promise of sophisticated luxury and attentive service. The Platinum status recognition and complimentary breakfast credit added significant value to our experience, demonstrating the advantages of loyalty program membership. For travelers seeking an upscale experience in Bellevue, whether for business or leisure, this hotel merits serious consideration. The seamless integration of modern amenities with classic hospitality principles creates an environment that feels both contemporary and timeless.
