Have you ever wondered why Washington State consistently ranks high on travel enthusiasts’ bucket lists? Let me take you on a noteworthy Pacific Northwest journey to find out.
Ranking as the 18th largest state in the U.S., Washington is nestled in the northwestern corner of the country, with Canada as its neighbour and Seattle as its bustling heart. The State boasts an unforgettable picturesque landscape of over 17,300 square miles. From vibrant city energy to the tranquil embrace of nature, and even to country zones reminiscent of the infamous no.1 show on TV right now – Yellowstone. Explore the Pacific Northwest to discover why the Evergreen State is a highly anticipated treasure waiting to be discovered.
Salish Lodge & Spa at Snoqualmie Falls
When you begin to get sleepless in the serene city of Seattle, head 40 minutes East for the textbook-perfect Pacific Northwest getaway at Salish Lodge. Perched at the top of the 270-foot Snoqualmie waterfall, escape to the cosy woodfired cabin rooms to unwind in solace. Surrounded by a captivating 2-acre park with green maple trees that turn a charming hue of red in the fall, this nature most definitely nurtures as you’ll have no choice but to fall in love with the breathtaking scenery.
Think of Snoqualmie as a destination for serendipitous moments. With an award-winning spa, choose from a variety of treatments from Salish Lodge’s signature massage – to modern treatments like Botox, accompanied by refreshing bubbles. No get-a-way is complete without lining your stomach with customary favourites. Order a slice of the house-made cherry pie that’s quoted to be ‘So damn good’ – which, quite literally is the cherry on top of your visit to Snoqualmie at Salish Lodge and Spa.
Visit Chateau Ste Michelle in the Wine Wonderland of Woodinville
An undisputed wine wonderland, visit Woodinville to experience the magic of Chateau Ste Michelle. As Washington State’s oldest winery, Chateau Ste Michelle removes the stiff upper lip from the art of wine-tasting and introduces a light-hearted exploration, welcoming wine aficionados and beginners alike.
Upon entering the sleek black gates adorned with ‘Chateau St Michelle’ in large gold italics, you’ll witness the beautiful cream Chateau burrowed on a pristine 105-acre estate. With a deep dedication to producing the best wine in the state, Chateau Ste Michelle crafts each bottle with the utmost care – nurturing each grape origin to aid its individuality. Tour the grounds and taste some of the very grape nectar with your assigned sommelier – savour the bold and rich Cabernet – or decipher if the Resiling is as crisp and aromatic as you think it. Sip some of the very best wines and understand why Chateau Ste Michelle takes first place in the wine realm.
Hike Cowiche Canyon and Feast at Crafted in Yakima Valley
Head south to the desert region of Yakima Valley and fall in love with the picturesque panorama and the charming community tropes of the Pacific Northwest. As you journey down the winding roads, meet the golden crisp apple sellers that hitch up their trucks at the side of the road – ready to sell you the ripest of the bunch. Known for great food and even greater adventures, escape to the red mountains of Yakima and hike the Cowiche Canyon East Trail. Take to the Canyon in the early hours of the morning and trek the 3-mile flat trail, cross a gentle creek and admire the deep red sumac plants that pay a compliment to the burnt orange canyons that rest above you on your way to the top.
After your hike head to Crafted eatery and bar. The popular farm-to-table restaurant prides itself on utilising Yakima’s fresh produce to create seasonally attuned sharing plates – with an honorary mention to the fresh oysters and honey-glazed wood-fired carrots. The creative dishes promise to leave the table speechless and your stomachs delightfully full.
Tour Valdemar Estates and Dine at The Salted Mill in Walla Walla
As the quest to explore the finest producers of Washington wine continues, Valdemar Estates should be high on your bucket list when in the valley. The first of its kind, birthed from Spanish soil over 120 years ago – Valdemar Estate brings Spanish family legacy to Washington to produce exceptional premium wines.
Take a deep dive into production, including witnessing the only indoor crush pad in the region. An architectural digest lover’s dream – the Valdemar premise presents a late modernist architecture with a contemporary sharp build, staying true to its artistic Walla Walla foundry roots. With your choice of grape libation in hand, sit atop Valdemar’s balcony, which boasts perfect views of the light mountains and panoramic landscape. Or take the scenic route with an e-bike tour of the southside vineyard. Reminiscent of an elusive dream ride through green pastures, whisking past large country houses that sit on their lonesome.
Cap off your visit at a community favourite dining spot – The Salted Mill. Located in the refurbished mill building, the Salted Mill is an ode to the Walla Walla community – welcoming, warm, and fresh. Admired for their focus on locally sourced produce and curating a clean American-style menu with an elevated twist. Dine in delight with menu offerings of classic American and international dishes, from Caribbean jerk chicken tofu bowls and the must-try – fried green tomatoes – simple and intriguingly delicious – don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.
Spokane Splendour – A Trail Feast with Top Chef Chad White
As Washington’s second-largest city – Spokane is a metropolis with urban charm and natural splendour. Get to know the scenic city more intimately with the extraordinary Trail Feast. Founded by restaurateur and former Season 13 Top Chef star, Chef Chad White, fusing his love for food with the outdoors, Chef White’s Trail Feast redefines dining.
This unique journey brings dinner to the road, creating unforgettable land and fare dishes inspired by the nature of each location. On this occasion, hosted at the beautiful eight-generation cattle ranch – Owens Farms, arrive in the stunning natural landscapes of Spokane. Where an enchanting tablespace awaits, witness the daylight come to a close, with cattle that roam peacefully close by. With bare kitchen essentials, Chef White cooks up a meaningful storm multi-course dinner with the core dining ingredient of beef. Notably, anticipate Chef White’s co-beverage master curate a charming elixir ready to complement each beef dish that is served. A near-magical experience, where nature and gastronomy meet, dine in the wild and experience the wonders of Spokane.
Be among the first to explore Washington State’s wonders. A wine lover’s paradise, a scenic admirer’s dream, and nature devotees visit the evergreen state.
