The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel: Destinations, Accommodations, and Activities

A vibrant and dynamic city, Seattle is a premier cultural, culinary, and entertainment destination. It has a thriving art and music scene culminating with the annual Belltown Bloom Festival and Capitol Hill Block Party. The diverse culinary scene features fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, international fare, foodie festivals, craft breweries, a unique coffee culture, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive tasting menus. The city boasts world-class cultural institutions, including the Seattle Art Museum, the Pacific Science Center, and the Museum of Pop Culture.

Seattle also benefits from its geographic location. It’s surrounded by a stunning natural landscape. Lake Washington, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier create dramatic backdrops, providing residents and visitors with breathtaking views. You’ll have year-round access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, swimming, sailing, mountain biking, and skiing. Its location on the west coast makes it an ideal travel hub, plus Canada is only a two-and-a-half-hour drive. If you want to explore more, here is Seattle’s ultimate guide to luxury travel: Destinations, accommodations, and activities.

Just 20 miles northeast of Seattle, Woodinville Wine Country is a renowned wine region offering award-winning wineries and one-of-a-kind culinary experiences. Local vineyards feature a lush landscape of rolling hills and green fields. You’ll find a diverse range of wine styles reflecting the region’s unique microclimates and expert winemakers.

Woodinville has four distinct districts. Downtown Woodinville is the heart of Woodinville and boasts an array of eateries, wineries, and shops. The Hollywood district is in the northern part of Woodinville. It’s named after the historic Hollywood Schoolhouse, a landmark venue for weddings and events. There are wineries, restaurants, and the ever-popular Hollywood Tavern, a chic eatery renowned for its craft cocktails. Situated in the western part of Woodinville, the West Valley District has a more relaxed setting and a mix of wineries and green spaces. The Warehouse District has vineyards and tasting rooms where visitors can learn about the wine-making process.

In the south part of Woodinville, Willows Lodge is a luxury boutique hotel with a rustic yet elegant atmosphere. Onsite is a full-service spa and gourmet dining at The Herbfarm, which features a sumptuous nine-course menu paired with local wine. Situated along Lake Washington, The Lodge at St. Edward State Park is only 15 minutes away. Here you can pamper yourself with one of their luxurious spa treatments after a day of wine tasting. Some rooms and suites look out to lush forests and water views.

Comprising a collection of islands, including San Juan Island, Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and Shaw Island, this archipelago offers a tranquil and idyllic escape surrounded by stunning natural beauty. They are a perfect destination for island hopping and exploring charming seaside villages, pristine lakes, and dramatic mountain trails.

San Juan Island is popular for whale watching. It’s home to alpacas and the iconic Lime Kiln Point State Park. Lopez Island features six miles of coastline, tranquil bays, rural farmland, and a lively village. Orcas Island offers pristine beaches, immaculate lakes, hiking at Moran State Park, and the charming village of Eastsound.

For a luxurious waterfront retreat, visit Roche Harbor Resort - Hotel De Haro on Orcas Island for a range of accommodations. Choose from charming cottages, village homes, or waterfront condominiums. There are several dining options and an onsite spa, The Hills Island Spa, where you can pamper yourself with rejuvenating massages and transformative treatments. On the other side of East Sound, Rosario Resort and Spa features harborside rooms and spacious suites. They also offer waterside dining at The Mansion Restaurant and a full-service spa with treatment rooms, a fitness center, a whirlpool, and stunning views of Cascade Bay.

On the west side of the San Juan Islands, Victoria is a city on Vancouver Island, known for its historic architecture, old-world atmosphere, and beautiful gardens. Downtown Victoria features charming streets and historic landmarks, including the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, a parliament building with ornate neo-baroque architecture.

For a scenic drive, explore Vancouver Island. The Pacific Marine Circle Route and the scenic drive to Tofino take you through charming seaside towns and stunning coastal landscapes. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, and it’s popular for whale watching. Located just outside of Victoria is Butchart Gardens, internationally renowned for its themed gardens, vibrant floral displays, and tranquil ponds.

For an unforgettable experience, the Fairmont Empress is an iconic chateau-hotel featuring Edwardian architecture. They offer a range of luxurious guest rooms and suites with elegant decor, plush furnishings, and modern amenities to ensure a memorable stay. Many rooms offer stunning views of the harbor and gardens. The hotel is also renowned for its Tea Lobby and afternoon tea service. Guests can enjoy a selection of teas and pastries in the traditional British style. 

With 29 years of experience, Ken Williams makes it his mission to provide excellent customer service and client satisfaction. Specializing in the Greater Seattle/Eastside Real Estate Market, he can give you insights into the most luxurious experiences available. Call Ken Williams today at (206) 491-5896 to discover more.