Luxury AAA Four Diamond Accommodations on Lake Washington

Voted 1 of the top 100 mainland US resorts by Condé Nast Traveler, Woodmark Hotel is just 15 minutes east of Seattle. Such proximity to the city means views of the lake often have the city skyline and the Olympic Mountains as a backdrop. On warmer days, Lake Washington fills with boats, kayaks, and paddleboards, all of which can be rented from the hotel. There's plenty to see and do on dry land, and beach-cruiser bicycles are free for guest use.

The hotel's mascot, a black labrador retriever named Woody Meg, greets each guest in the lobby. After becoming acquainted with her, you can retire to a Woodmark or Lakefront guest room. Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, down pillows, deep soaking tubs, and rain showers.

Every night is Raid the Pantry night at the Woodmark, as sandwiches, nibbles, and beverages are free for the taking for late-night, in-room snacking. The Woodmark’s two waterfront restaurants serve upscale and casual breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making use of locally sourced ingredients in creative, Northwest-meets-Mediterranean dishes. This Getaway includes a $20 credit toward breakfast. Local and organic ingredients make additional appearances at the full-service Northwest Face Spa, which offers a full line of treatments.

Kirkland, Washington: Natural Beauty on Seattle's Doorstep

The only hotel on Lake Washington, the Woodmark sees plenty of water activity, including boating, kayaking, and hiking. First-time visitors to the lake can get a proper introduction with Argosy Cruises' 90-minute sightseeing cruise, which floats past houses of the rich and famous, as well as Husky Stadium. Nearby, Juanita Bay Park's wooded wetlands and shallow marshes feature 110 acres of trails and habitats, a place to spot hummingbirds, warblers, beavers, salamanders, and nearly 200 woodland creatures.

Just 15 minutes from the hotel, Seattle's signature coffee shops, imitable seafood, and eclectic museums (including the Frank Gehry–designed Experimental Music Project Museum building) offer a change of pace from outdoor activities. Pike Place Market is a must for any foodie, as fresh fish and produce, signature chowders, and tasty free samples abound.

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