Washington Resorts, Hotels & Inns
Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a well-deserved escape, Washington offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, modern elegance, and unforgettable experiences. From cozy lakeside lodges to luxurious urban retreats, each destination invites you to relax, reconnect, and savor something extraordinary. I think you’ll find Washington every bit as inspiring as I do.
1. Salish Lodge & Spa
I found this place perched dramatically above the iconic Snoqualmie Falls, a lodge that perfectly balances rustic Pacific Northwest charm with refined luxury. Instead of an edgy high-rise, here the building radiates timeless elegance, clad in warm woods and stone, blending seamlessly into the forested landscape with breathtaking views of the thundering waterfall just steps away.
Inside, I discovered a cozy yet upscale world with roaring fireplaces, natural materials, and a design aesthetic that felt both classic and contemporary. Plush seating, earth tones, and thoughtful touches like handcrafted décor, artisan pottery, and oversized windows framing the falls created a serene and romantic atmosphere.
To me, it felt like a luxurious mountain retreat with a soothing, romantic vibe and an emphasis on nature and wellness. My guest room for two days featured a spacious layout with vaulted ceilings, a large feather bed draped in crisp linens, a stone fireplace, a spa-like bathroom with a soaking tub, and a balcony overlooking the river and falls.
I thought its location was superb – tucked in the lush Snoqualmie Valley, yet only about 30 minutes from Seattle – making it easy to combine a city break with a nature-infused escape. Hiking trails, wine country, and charming small towns were all on the doorstep.
I loved my guest room, which was warm and elegant with a king-sized feather bed, plush linens, a gas fireplace, and a spa-inspired bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rainfall shower.
I also indulged in the dining: two acclaimed restaurants that celebrate local flavors, from hearty Northwest breakfasts (yes, their honey from the onsite apiary is legendary!) to sophisticated dinners showcasing regional produce. The spa was a highlight too – offering treatments inspired by nature, a eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation spaces that made it easy to unwind.
To book, check availability or prices for Salish Lodge & Spa.
What I loved best:
My favorite feature was the balcony overlooking the falls. It was surreal to sip coffee in the morning or a glass of wine at night while watching mist rise from the water.
2. Iron Springs Resort
I discovered a timeless, early 20th-century lodge with a classic wooden facade and stone detailing, blending perfectly with its rugged Pacific Northwest surroundings. Inside, the lobby was warm and inviting, with a soaring vaulted ceiling, rustic timber beams, a grand stone fireplace, and cozy nooks filled with local art, handmade quilts, and shelves of well-loved books.
I stayed in a spacious ocean-view cabin with a private deck for two days, fully equipped kitchen, wood-burning stove, plush linens, and the soothing sound of waves just outside my window. The resort even provided thoughtful extras like board games, rain jackets, and beachcombing kits.
The resort is tucked along the Washington coast, right on the shores of the Pacific, surrounded by tide pools, driftwood-strewn beaches, and evergreen forests. Just a short drive away, I found hiking trails, fishing spots, and small coastal towns full of charm that completely won me over.
On-site, the Iron Springs General Store served fresh pastries, espresso, regional wines, and local craft goods. The resort also hosted community bonfires on the beach, guided tide pool walks, and seasonal seafood feasts.
I loved the sense of community — pets were welcome (I met a few friendly dogs on the beach walks!), and evenings often ended with neighbors gathering around a fire pit to share stories under the stars.
To book, check availability or prices for Iron Springs Resort .
What I loved best:
What amazed me most was the balance between relaxation and adventure. I spent mornings exploring the wide, windswept beach (perfect for clam digging, beachcombing, or just walking for miles), and afternoons curled up by the fire with a book.
3. Skamania Lodge
Skamania Lodge felt like a cathedral to the trees, soaring timber beams, fireplaces everywhere, and the Columbia River Gorge stretching out beyond the windows.
I loved the design. It had that classic lodge feel with massive timber beams, stone fireplaces, and cozy gathering spaces, but with modern updates that made it feel fresh and stylish. The soaring lobby with its giant fireplace was the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine after a day outdoors.
My room for two days was warm and inviting, with a plush king bed, soft linens, and a window that framed the Gorge in the most breathtaking way. Some rooms even came with private balconies or fireplaces, which made the stay feel extra special. My favorite moment was waking up to mist rising over the Columbia River—it felt magical.
Dining at the lodge’s restaurant was another highlight. We savored the locally inspired dishes, fresh salmon, and Oregon wines, all enjoyed with panoramic Gorge views. For me, Skamania Lodge struck that perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, making it one of the most underrated and unforgettable retreats in the Pacific Northwest.
To book, check availability or prices for Skamania Lodge.
What I loved best:
The amenities really amazed me. I hiked on scenic trails right from the property, tried ziplining through the forest canopy, and then treated myself to a massage at the Waterleaf Spa. The indoor pool and outdoor hot tubs were also perfect for unwinding while soaking in those mountain views.
4. Willows Lodge
Willows Lodge felt like an invitation to slow everything down. Nestled in Woodinville’s wine country, the whole place smelled like cedar, and I fell in love before I even set my bags down.
Just 30 minutes from Seattle, it somehow manages to feel worlds away, surrounded by secret gardens, trees, and a laid-back, wine-inspired vibe.
From the moment I walked in, I loved the design: rustic Northwest architecture with cedar beams, stone fireplaces, and warm earth tones, paired with sleek modern touches that gave it a boutique feel. It struck the perfect balance between cozy and upscale.
My room for two days was spacious, with a king bed draped in plush linens, a stone fireplace, a spa-style bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rainfall shower, and French doors opening to a private patio.
My favorite detail was the oversized tub, which came with bath salts and candles. It felt like my own little spa retreat right in the room.
The amenities really stood out too. I spent a morning at the full-service spa with a relaxing massage, then wandered through the beautiful gardens before heading out to nearby tasting rooms and vineyards. The lodge even offered bikes, so exploring the Sammamish River Trail was easy and fun.
Dining was another highlight. I loved having dinner at Barking Frog, where the dishes were crafted from local ingredients and paired beautifully with regional wines. Even breakfast felt special—farm-fresh and flavorful.
To book, check availability or prices for Willows Lodge .
5. Sun Mountain Lodge
Sun Mountain Lodge offered a different kind of luxury, the kind that came with silence, views, and trails that felt like they’d been waiting just for me. Perched above the Methow Valley, it stretched wide and wild in every direction.
From the moment I arrived, I loved the design of the lodge: a warm, wood-and-stone aesthetic with soaring ceilings, cozy fireplaces, and huge windows that framed the scenery like living artwork. It struck me as both elegant and authentically Northwest, with just the right blend of comfort and sophistication.
My room had a plush king bed, natural wood accents, a fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows that opened onto sweeping mountain or valley views. My favorite feature was the private balcony, where I could sip coffee in the morning while watching the sunrise paint the sky over the Cascades.
Dining at the on-site restaurant was equally amazing, with fresh, locally inspired dishes and an extensive Washington wine list. For me, Sun Mountain Lodge felt like the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and refined comfort—definitely one of Washington’s most amazing hidden gems.
To book, check availability or prices for Sun Mountain Lodge .
What I loved best:
The amenities here really impressed me. I spent afternoons lounging by the outdoor pool overlooking the mountains, enjoyed horseback rides through meadows, and tried out some of the resort’s 100+ miles of hiking and biking trails. In winter, there's cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right from the property! The spa was another highlight. I had an incredible massage followed by a soak in the hot tub with breathtaking views.
6. Sleeping Lady Resort
The Sleeping Lady Resort was the kind of place that made me feel like a welcome guest in the forest. Hidden near Leavenworth, it felt like an artist’s retreat tucked between evergreens and snowmelt creeks.
I thought Sleeping Lady Resort in Leavenworth was one of the best and most underrated mountain retreats in Washington—an amazing place that combines rustic charm, eco-friendly design, and pure Pacific Northwest beauty.
Nestled along Icicle Creek at the base of the Cascade Mountains, it felt secluded and serene, yet just minutes from the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth.
I loved how the resort blended into its natural surroundings. The architecture was thoughtful and sustainable, with wood-beamed lodges, native landscaping, and art installations scattered throughout the grounds.
My room was warm and inviting, with cozy timber accents, a plush bed with soft linens, and big windows that framed views of the surrounding forest and peaks. The bathroom had eco-friendly amenities, and I especially loved the little details—handcrafted furniture, local artwork, and a sense of simple, natural luxury that made it feel so special.
The amenities were great! I swam in the outdoor pool with mountain views, relaxed in the hot tub under the stars, and strolled through the organic gardens. The on-site Grotto Bar was perfect for a cocktail, while the Kingfisher Restaurant & Wine Bar served incredible farm-to-table meals, many sourced right from the property itself.
What really stood out, though, was the atmosphere. Between the mountains, the art, and the commitment to sustainability, Sleeping Lady Resort felt not just like a getaway, but an experience that nourished both body and soul. To me, it’s one of Washington’s most amazing hidden gems.
To book, check availability or prices for Sleeping Lady Resort .
What I loved best:
Walking through the property felt like wandering a little alpine village, complete with trails, secret gardens, and peaceful nooks to just breathe in the mountain air.
Conclusion: Where the Forest Whispers Back
Each of these Washington retreats gave me something I didn’t know I needed: a slower breath, a softer step, a deeper sleep. Some wrapped me in robes and spa days. Others sent me out into the wild with trail mix and muddy boots. But all of them reminded me how to listen to the world around me. And to myself. I’ll come back when I need grounding again. I know these places will be waiting.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
