Forget staying here -- the low tide makes the river smell like rotten eggs. If you don't want a river view, you can always look at the freeway on the other side!

I wouldn't spend this amount of money again!

We landed at Le Rivage in March 2009 when on a California road trip heading south on I-5. The location is convenient to I-5, yet removed enough to avoid the interstate ambiance experience. I found a distinct contrast in feel between the frenetic freeway, just minutes away, and the quiet neighborhood on the banks of the slow-moving Sacramento River where the hotel is situated.

The photos on the hotel website are an accurate representation of the property; if anything, the property is better in real life than their website photos.

The staff at Le Rivage was truly outstanding. The personnel managed to work the fine line between being helpful and friendly without being intrusive and fawning. They responded within minutes to a minor thermostat issue in our room, and were extremely helpful with answering any questions we had.

The room and bathroom were immaculate and evoked total indulgence. The beds were comfortable beyond description, and the linens were top quality. We had a premium walkout balcony room overlooking the river, and highly recommend it for the view and extra outdoor space. All the amenities one would expect in a five star hotel were provided.

Adjacent to the hotel is a peaceful paved walking/biking trail that follows alongside the river. After being cooped up for hours in a car, we truly enjoyed having an outdoor exercise option. We rented the hotel bicycles, which were in excellent condition, and the concierge provided us with information about the trail.

Very minor drawbacks:

1. Unless you want to drive around a bit, the dining options in the area are limited to the hotel restaurant, Scotts, which fortunately was very good. We found no dash-and-go option for breakfast. Unless you BYOB (bring your own bagels)or have room service, know that you might need to spend some time and money for breakfast at Scotts.

2. While the room had abundant natural light by day, the nighttime lighting in the room was a bit dim for older eyes. Nice for romance, but makes reading boring work materials more challenging.

3. If you elect not to use the hotel valet parking, the self-park lot might be a bit of a walk for some folks.

Born and raised in Sacramento (Bishop Manogue, Class of 1977), I've lived in Marin County for the past 25 years, which is supposedly the "tres chic" California location. Yet, after staying at Le Rivage, a gorgeous hotel overlooking the River, I now know Sacramento has closed this "tres chic" gap! For my 50th birthday, my mother and four siblings treated my husband and me to a night's stay at Le Rivage---a truly memorable evening (where we felt as though we'd been transported away to a European villa, complete with amenities galore...my personal favorite being the clawfoot bathtub)! Staff were exceptionally professional and courteous...attentive in every way. To my fellow Manogue alum out there, take my "now 50 sage" advice: for your 50th (or for any other convenient excuse!), experience Le Rivage for yourself...experience this taste of the finest "European-esque" get-a-way --- right in your old hometown!

I recently stayed overnight at Le Rivage and was overwhelmed by the beauty of the property. Usually I stay downtown, but a business acquaintance recommended Le Rivage so I thought I'd give it a try. I was not disappointed! First and foremost, the bed (which I feel is the most important part of a room) was one of the most comfortable I've ever slept in. Saying the bathroom was "luxurious" would be a huge understatement. The flat screen television was also a plus! Throughout my stay, the staff was very courteous and answered all of my questions with a smile. I also had a great dinner at Scott's Seafood, which is connected to the hotel. I will definitely return to this hotel in the future!