7 minute read
6 Places to Get Cozy Around Washington This Fall
Snuggle Up!
Six places to get cozy this fall in Washington
written by Ryn Pfeuffer
As the crisp fall air settles in, there’s no better time to plan a cozy Pacific Northwest escape. Whether you dream of snuggling up by the fire with a glass of wine or sinking into a hot tub after a scenic hike, these six destinations offer the perfect blend of comfort and charm. From intimate riverside retreats to rustic mountain lodges, each spot is designed for those seeking warmth, relaxation and a little romance this season. So, grab your favorite sweater, and get ready to snuggle up at one of these dreamy autumn getaways.
The Inn at Langley (Whidbey Island)
For a special occasion, The Inn at Langley on Whidbey Island is a lovely mix of luxury and Pacific Northwest casual charm. Just a short, twenty-minute ferry ride from the Mukilteo ferry terminal north of Seattle, this romantic hideaway offers incredible views of Saratoga Passage from every room. Imagine unwinding on your private cedar balcony with a glass of wine, warming up by the fireplace (in more ways than one?) or sinking into a whirlpool tub made for two. (The second- and fourth-floor rooms have the sunniest decks, with no overhangs.) With its bucolic beachfront setting and quaint town a half-block away, it’s an easy jaunt for couples seeking a fancy retreat without losing that laid-back PNW vibe. {www.innatlangley.com}
MORE TO DO: Take a beach walk along the shores, where the crisp fall air and super calm atmosphere set the stage for sunset. After your stroll, unwind with a soothing massage at the small yet mighty spa at The Inn at Langley. End your day with a delicious dinner at Prima Bistro, where the flavors will transport you straight to France—no passport required.
Salish Lodge & Spa (Snoqualmie)
Salish Lodge offers a uniquely romantic experience resting above the majestic Snoqualmie Falls. The warm, inviting lobby, with its double-sided fireplace, sets the tone for relaxation, whether you’re savoring morning coffee or an evening nightcap. Rooms feature gas fireplaces, plush bedding and spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs or dual-head showers that make it hard to leave. Take a self-care time-out at the spa with treatments using Pacific Northwest ingredients, or enjoy the soothing soaking pools. At some point during your stay, be sure to take a short walk to the falls’ overlook for a quick photo-op. Fun fact: Snoqualmie Falls, at 268 feet tall, is actually taller than Niagara Falls, whose height ranges from 167 feet. {www.salishlodge.com}
MORE TO DO: For a festive fall outing, visit nearby farms like Remlinger Farms and Fall City Farms. Partake in classic autumn fun with pumpkin picking, corn mazes and seasonal treats—the perfect makings for celebrating autumn’s best.
Posthotel (Leavenworth)
From Seattle, traverse Stevens or Snoqualmie Pass to the Posthotel, an adults-only sanctuary hugged by the river and mountain views. Just steps from town, it feels worlds away with its peaceful (read: nonparty) ambience. Each of the fifty-five luxurious rooms has a plush, king-sized bed, a cozy gas fireplace and a stunning marble soaking tub facing the river. Indulge in the spa’s hydrotherapy pools, steam baths and sauna, or take a dip in the swimout saltwater pool. With European breakfast, wellness amenities and seasonal outdoor activities included, the Posthotel is a quiet fall respite for those seeking a romantic fall getaway. {www.posthotelleavenworth.com}
MORE TO DO: Oktoberfest in Leavenworth is a fun-filled choice for a romantic getaway. Stroll hand-in-hand through the festive streets of this Bavarian town, and savor hearty pretzels, sausages and steins of beer. The lively music and cozy atmosphere set the stage for a memorable mini-vacation, while the charming shops and Cascade Mountain scenery add to the romance.
Sun Mountain Lodge (Winthrop)
Just four hours from Seattle, Sun Mountain Lodge is a cozy fall getaway, blending rustic charm with a touch of luxury. Set atop a hill with 360-degree views of the vibrant Methow Valley, the lodge offers abundant fall colors that light up the landscape. Guests can unwind in rooms featuring fireplaces and soaking tubs with sweeping views, or opt for one of the lakeside cabins. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the lodge provides horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking opportunities. If you’re lucky, on a clear night, the magic of the Aurora Borealis might make an appearance. {www.sunmountainlodge.com}
MORE TO DO: For fall travelers at Sun Mountain Lodge, the Sun Mountain trail network is a must-explore gem with more than 40 miles of trails winding through vibrant meadows and forests. Whether you’re up for a peaceful 4-mile stroll on the Beaver Pond Loop or a thrilling ride on the Black Bear Trail with its stunning views of the Methow Valley and North Cascades, there’s something for everyone. And if you didn’t bring your own wheels, no worries—Sun Mountain Lodge rents out mountain bikes so you can easily hit the trails and soak in the autumn splendor.
The Inn at Abeja (Walla Walla)
Tucked away along a calm country road, The Inn at Abeja is a romantic respite just minutes from downtown Walla Walla. Set on a picturesque, 38-acre property with the Blue Mountains as a backdrop, this century-old farmstead offers seven private cottages and suites. Stay in the charming Bunk House, with its antique clawfoot tub and private patio, or the Edison House, featuring vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace and a luxurious shower for two. Guests enjoy complimentary tastings of Abeja’s renowned wines, making this serene retreat an ideal home base for exploring Walla Walla’s wine country. {www.abeja.net}
MORE TO DO: In October and November, Walla Walla’s wine scene comes alive with fall flavors. Don’t miss Abeja for a cozy tasting in a historic barn, L’Ecole No. 41 for acclaimed wines in a charming schoolhouse, Woodward Canyon for stunning reds and ambience, and Amavi Cellars for a splendid blend of wines and fall scenery.
Tenzen Springs & Cabins (Stevenson)
Built into the hills between White Salmon and Stevenson, Tenzen Springs & Cabins is a cozy retreat in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge. With only six minimalist cabins inspired by Japanese wabi-sabi and Scandinavian hot spring culture, each offers a private geothermal soaking tub, an outdoor shower and a wrap-around deck with stunning Gorge views. Tall ceilings, queen-sized bamboo beds and a steam-sauna shower create an atmosphere of tranquil luxury. {www.tenzensprings.com}
MORE TO DO: Just a short drive from Stevenson, the Bonneville Dam is a hot spot for salmon and steelhead fishing that improves as seasons change. Fall Chinook start their run from late August through October, drawing anglers eager for a big catch. Coho makes their splash from mid-September through November, especially in Columbia River tributaries, while winter steelhead steals the show from December through February.
