Here are three of my favorite fall destinations, as well as some suggestions for what you may want to do once you get there.
Skamania Lodge - Stevenson, Washington
www.skamania.com
509-427-7700
Nestled on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, Skamania Lodge is a rustic resort that seems to have been designed for picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Nestled somewhere between mega-resort and hilltop cabin, Skamania Lodge provides all of the comforts you would expect from a high-end hotel while also nurturing a feeling of elemental wonder.
What to do when you aren't taking in the view: Because Skamania Lodge is a full resort it has predictable vacation amenities such as a spa, golf course and restaurant. But if you really want to break out of your normal "hotel routine", just step outdoors! In addition to the hotel's own 4 miles of hiking trails, Skamania Lodge is just minutes from over 70 waterfalls, including the widely known Multnomah Falls (www.multnomahfalls.org). Also nearby is the famous Maryhill Museum of Art (www.maryhillmuseum.org) and the starting point of Sternwheeler paddle boat tours of the Gorge (www.portlandspirit.com).
Arch Cape Inn & Retreat- Arch Cape, Oregon
www.archcapeinn.com
800-436-2848
One of the most unique hotels in the Northwest, Arch Cape Inn & Retreat resembles a castle in design while still maintaining a cozy beach house feel. Complete with ocean views and a gas fireplace in every room, the Arch Cape Inn & Retreat is the perfect place to snuggle up with a loved one or a good book for some quiet rest and relaxation. Gourmet dining at the inn completes the coastal vacation experience with meals centered around local flavors and delicacies.
What to do when you aren't under the covers: Although once you enter the doors of the hotel you may never want to leave, Arch Cape is just 4 miles from Cannon Beach where the coast comes alive with all kinds of fall events. If you prefer to stay indoors, check out the Coaster Theatre for a variety of live shows (www.coastertheatre.com) or visit one of the many art galleries that Cannon Beach has to offer. If you're feeling adventuresome, head out to Hug Point State Park for hiking and views of the Old Coast Highway (www.stateparks.com/hug_point.htm), or head over to Mike's Bike Shop for bicycle, funcycle and all-terrain stroller rentals (www.mikesbike.com) and take a self-powered tour of Cannon Beach.
Elkins Resort - Nordman, Idaho
www.elkinsresort.com
208-443-2432
If you are looking for more of a private sanctuary than a hotel experience, Elkins Resort may be just the weekend getaway you are looking for. Approximately 2 hours northeast of Spokane, Washington, the resort is just within reach for a weekend travel destination. Providing a host of over 30 private log cabin rentals, Elkins Resort brings nature to your doorstep without skimping on the comforts of home. A lakeside restaurant with pacific rim flair completes the celebration of the outdoors.
What to do when you aren't curled up by the fire: Although it is easy to get drawn in to the comfort of the cabins, Elkins Resort provides ample opportunity to explore the outdoors. On a crisp sunny day, knock a few balls at Priest Lake Golf Course (http://priestlakegolfcourse.com) or hike one of many nearby trails into the Selkirk mountain range. If it's late fall and snow has begun to accumulate then try some snowmobiling or cross country skiing on for size.
These three spots are perfect for one-night travel stops as well as extended vacations and definitely show off a variety of what the Pacific Northwest has to offer. It doesn't matter if you are looking for a quiet weekend enjoying the woods or an adventure along the coastline, there is always somewhere new to visit and explore.
Want to read more on travel in the Pacific Northwest? Click the links below:
Top 10 Unusual Hotels in the U.S.
Pacific Northwest Underground Tours
Ghost Tours in Seattle, Washington
Free Things to Do in Portland, Oregon
Published by Denise Kawaii
Denise Kawaii has worked in the financial and administrative fields for the past ten years and is currently focusing on her role as a marketing director for a small Paintball business start-up in Portland, O... View profile
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1 Comments
Post a CommentCalgon take me away from it all. LOL Sounds tempting!