The Resort at Port Ludlow

Being able to escape the daily hustle without traveling long distances is one of the benefits of the Pacific Northwest. Incredible natural beauty can be found in major cities and it takes just hours of travel to feel like you're in another world. The Resort at Port Ludlow offers that fabulous combination of "the middle of nowhere feel" with high-end cuisine and relaxation-inducing rooms.

Originally settled by the S'Kallam Tribe, it was 1841 when a US Navy expedition arrived and named the area after a naval officer, Lt. Augustus C. Ludlow. In 1853, a sawmill was built and developed into a logging/milling/shipping company that prospered until the Great Depression. It closed in 1935. The early '50s were bleak for Port Ludlow, but real estate value began to increase when a bridge was built in the early '60s. A master planned residential community was developed and continues to grow today. The Inn, built to look like a classic seaside resort, was finished in 1992. In addition, there are townhomes, condos, a golf course, marina and plenty of space to breath.

Resort at Port Ludlow photo by Andrew Buchanan

The Inn has 37 guest rooms plus The Fireside restaurant and lounge (click here to read more about The Fireside). A beach house and loft can also be rented. Checking in is an easy exercise with the friendly staff. Service across the board manages that fine line of being efficient yet approachable. The Inn has three floors with access via stairs or elevator. Rooms look toward Mt. Baker or Ludlow Bay and the Olympics. Rooms include gas fireplaces, free WiFi, oversized Jacuzzi tubs and plenty of bathroom counter space. You know you've made the leap into another world when you see a bald eagle (or two) sitting on top of a totem pole or a seal or otter playing in the water of the marina. The Inn is pet-friendly (cats, dogs, birds) and generally charges $35 per pet per stay.

If you want to do nothing, Port Ludlow can accommodate. Off the lobby is a small sitting area with a gas fireplace; a perfect place to sit with a cup of coffee and newspaper or book. A veranda outside The Fireside restaurant is a fine spot to watch marina activity or stare at the mountains. Use that Jacuzzi tub or just recline on your bed and read. Sit at the bar in the Fireside Lounge and watch TV with other guests/locals.

If you prefer activity, there are many options. The marina store rents kayaks and powerboats; you don't have to leave Ludlow Bay to see incredible sights. The marina has 300 slips and mooring rentals and side-ties for boats up to 200 feet. You can hike in the woods or on the beach, or golf at the 18-hole, award winning golf course. The Inn has connections with charter outfits if you'd like to go fishing or crabbing. A local spa service is waiting to get your 24-hour-in-advance request to bring their spa service right to your room. To-go food is available to hotel and boat guests; food will be delivered right to your boat slip.

The Heron, Olympic Room and Andrew's Suite are popular with businesses for corporate meetings. Andrew's Suite has its own terrace when you have to take a break from corporate-speak. It also has a connecting bedroom and bathroom allowing an executive or event organizer to stay on site.

You can see, feel and taste the care that is being given to the Inn. Whether you're a returning or first-time guest, you'll be pleased with what you find and relaxed when you leave.

Connie Adams/January 2013