written by Julie Lee
In need of a relaxing getaway that includes scenic surroundings, eagles soaring overhead, water underfoot? A chance to unclench the jaw and breathe air in a remote setting, but with every luxury amenity included in a chic boutique hotel? We’ve found the spot. Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a destination with an intriguing backstory. Built in the early 1900s, the only route to this resort was by boat. As time swept by, ownership changed hands several times, roads were built, tents became cottages, a lodge was erected. The result is a gorgeously refurbished retreat with a bounty of beauty and activity. Surrounded by the Olympic Mountains and resting on the shore of the Hood Canal is a staycation destination where you’ll simply want to bring books and stay, indefinitely.
7101 E STATE HIGHWAY 106
UNION
alderbrookresort.com
ACCOMODATIONS
There are several styles of rooms and cottages, many with separate seating areas for some book time and stress-reducing deep soaking tubs. Waterfront guest rooms offer a panoramic view of Hood Canal, private balconies and chaise lounges. Garden-view rooms overlook a waterfall and an immaculately tailored lawn. Creek-view guest rooms have plaza courtyard access. One- and two-bedroom cottages offer a more private escape for couples or families, each with a fully equipped kitchen, gas fireplace and a sunny porch to relax on.
DINING
The restaurant at Alderbrook is a destination, offering an all-day lineup of farm-to-table dishes, fine wines and a menu of locally grown and harvested oysters. The resort is an idyllic setting for catered celebratory occasions and weddings. Weeknight happy hour is worth checking out, with live music on Fridays.
GOLF & SPA
If you’re a golfer, you’re in heaven at Alderbrook. The on-site Alderbrook Golf Club is ranked one of the top twenty-five courses in the Northwest, with tee times available year round. Surrounding courses such as the Gold Mountain Golf Course, the Trophy Lake Golf Course and the Salish Cliffs Golf Club ensure a variety of day-to-day, eighteen-hole relaxation. For complete rejuvenation, the Alderbrook spa offers a signature massage with heated basalt stones, an herbal-infused steam room, luxurious hot oil scalp massages and marine algae wraps.
ACTIVITIES
Engulfed in a vortex of nearby trails, Alderbrook offers some great outdoor fun, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes. A map of trail walks is available ranging from a half-mile breather to a 3.2-mile loop. For some high-tech adventure, be sure to ask about geocaching, a way to explore the grounds in search of hidden containers that lead to prizes—great fun for kids or the kid in us. For gamers, there is an Xbox game room open 24/7 with nine game stations including an Xbox 360 and a 37-inch TV in each, all complimentary to guests. For the budding artist, every room is equipped with sketchbooks and pencils for nature-inspired artistry. For Friday fun, check out aqua yoga in the saltwater pool or ask about the occasional full moon yoga.
