FWT Magazine Issue 5 Fall 2016 | Page 32

featured more amenities than traditional national park lodges, like Wi-Fi, a flatscreen television and in-room Starbucks coffee along with a sitting area and balcony overlooking the lake. To cap off the evening, Lake Quinault Lodge lights a fire pit for lakeside s’mores. Watching my marshmallow toast as the sky glowed like the campfire’s embers was a highlight of my stay. Inn at Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park, California Near the lowest point of North America sits a four-star historic property that hosts Hollywood stars and Paris socialites. Nestled in the largest national park in the lower 48, the Inn at Furnace Creek offers graciously appointed accommodations that luxury travelers have come to expect. Built in 1927 with expansive views of the Panamint Mountains, the Inn at Furnace Creek offers a garden oasis in the desert of Death Valley complete with a spring-fed pool and poolside bungalows. For guests needing assistance in decompressing, spa services and massages are available poolside. The Inn at Furnace Creek’s Dining Room offers fine dining along with a legendary weekend brunch and afternoon tea. Dining on the veranda allows guest unparalleled views of the valley and the mountains above. My room featured an entryway that opened to a king room with a sitting area with a pair of upholstered chairs flanking a The Dining Room of the Grand Canyon Lodge at the North Rim overlooks the canyon fireplace. With all the expected amenities and offers regionally-inspired menus and locally-sourced ingredients. like a flat-screen television, in-room stereo and a work desk with a charging station, my room also featured a large walk-in spruce trees that surround Lake Quinault closet. Lodge, adding charm to this hidden gem, a The bathroom featured vintage white couple hours commute from Seattle. hexagonal tiles, a jetted tub and separate For rustic luxury in a fairy land of ferns A gracious lawn slopes towards Lake shower. The signature toiletries had the and moss, I found the idyllic Lake Quinault Quinault where Adirondack chairs provide aroma of desert wildflowers. Lodge in the Olympic National Forest an the ideal spot to enjoy a book or a glass of Along with luxurious surroundings, ideal retreat for travelers needing more wine. The white gazebo in the corner of the adventure awaits at the front door. Jeep creature comforts. lawn provides a fairytale spot for weddings. tours, bike rentals and horseback riding is Constructed in 1926, Lake Quinault With several buildings to choose from, available close by with tennis courts located Lodge features cedar shakes and original guests can opt for historic rooms in the at the hotel. For the golfers, Death Valley divided light windows. The evergreen main lodge or larger rooms with fireplachas the world’s lowest golf course, a bucket shutters match the towering centuries-old es or balconies. My double-queen room list course for serious players. Lake Quinault Lodge in the Olympic National Forest, Washington 32 fwt FALL 2016