Top Rated Accommodations in Albany

Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright said that the Claremont is one of the few hotels in the world with warmth, character and charm. The staff will go out of its way to charm you at this white jewel nestled in the foothills of Berkeley. On the grounds of what was once an English-style castle built with Gold Rush money, this sprawling white, Mediterranean-like villa was constructed in 1915 and has served guests with its gracious elegance, luxury and style ever since. A full spa service was added in the late 1980s. Make sure you book a room that has a view of the San Francisco Bay and city skyline.

You can't be more central in Berkeley than when you are while staying at this updated boutique hotel. Established in 1910, the hotel has nicely added contemporary amenities and comfort while maintaining it's high-end style. The lobby is open, airy, and glamorous. There is even, appropriately, a marble peace sign embedded into the entry way floor. The rooms feature similarly bold designs, with modern and comfortable chairs and beds, and bright windows. The staff is particularly attentive, and will go out of its way to satisfy your needs.

Stay in this State Historic Landmark building built in 1927 and designed by Julia Morgan, who also designed Hearst Castle. You will be taken by its elegance and beauty, its flowering courtyard, vaulted ceilings, large halls, tiled floors, huge indoor pool, rooftop restaurant and overall California style. The rooms are all comfortable and nicely appointed, and many have sweeping views of the Bay and San Francisco (no televisions - the view is your TV). Coupled with the exquisite service, you could spend days here without stepping foot outside. Massage therapists, lecture series, conveniently close to the University, restaurants and shopping. Discounts for longer stays from a week on, as well as monthly rates and seasonal rates.

The Downtown Berkeley Inn is an affordable boutique hotel, boasting 40-inch flat screen TVs, TempurPedic-like foam mattresses and free parking. There are a number of package deals for guests coming to town for a specific purpose of destination, including the Family Vacation Package, Weekend Package, and Shopping Package. The decor is chic, sparse and modern, for contemporary and sophisticated stay in the beautiful town of Berkeley.

Originally built as a private women's clubhouse in 1928 then converted to a University sorority in the 1970s, this National Register landmark became a hotel in the early 1990s. Designed by the famous Bay Area architect Walter T. Steilberg, it offers wonderful Asian and Mediterranean touches, and influences from the Arts and Crafts movement like the stained glass windows, an immense banquet hall with a warm and comfortable feeling from the design itself. It is next to the famous Caffe Strada, a block from the Pacific Film Archive and just a short walk to Telegraph Avenue with its many shops and restaurants.

This full service hotel with its away-from-downtown location make it the choice for the traveler seeking a cosmopolitan hotel in a mellow atmosphere. With captivating views of the San Francisco skyline, it offers excellent accommodations at reasonable prices by Bay Area standards. It is perfect for those who have business both in Berkeley as well as San Francisco (being near a freeway), has plenty of facilities for families, and is a stone's throw from the Fourth Street shopping district. Long walks and sunsets on the Marina are a plus, as is the hotel's restaurant, the Bay Grille.