Perched on the Columbia River in a converted sardine cannery, Astoria’s Bowline Hotel offers simple, understated luxury dotted with Scandinavian influences.

The hotel takes full advantage of its locale on the river. With exposed beams, large windows and circular mirrors that bear a charming resemblance to portholes, its lobby will immediately make you feel like you’re on a boat — perhaps a particularly elegant fishing boat.

The hotel’s decor is sleek and modern but incorporates elements from the original cannery in a graceful meeting of past and present that feels much like Astoria itself.

Guests can choose from rooms facing the river or the Astoria Riverfront Trolley, or stay in the Ice House, a standalone building with two suites just adjacent to the main hotel.

In every room, the river is never far away — guests can relax or enjoy a drink on the hotel patio, adorned with delicate string lights, an overlook to watch  barking sea lions and an unobstructed view of the Columbia River.

The hotel’s bar, The Knot, boasts Scandinavian-inspired, locally sourced food and elegant cocktails.

The menu offers standard old fashioneds and margaritas, but also specialty cocktails like the tamarind martinez, with tamarind-infused gin, or the good health, a concoction of scotch, chamomile infused blanc vermouth and citrus flavors. Complete the aquatic experience with local seafood like rockfish and albacore.

Other amenities include barrel saunas and in-room fireplaces, so warmth isn’t hard to come by even if the weather on the coast isn’t perfect. Located right in the heart of downtown Astoria, guests at the Bowline Hotel are just a short walk from all the town has to offer.