A Girls' Getaway Weekend Guide to Washington Wine Country

by  Anne Roderique-Jones | Sep 11, 2015
Benjamin Benschneider Photograph
Benjamin Benschneider Photograph

Napa Valley might first come to mind when you're dreaming about a West Coast wine weekend escape, but Washington State has its own share of first-class wineries that shouldn't be discounted either. The estates are incredibly convenient and fun to tour -- and they're perfect for a relaxing girls' getaway. It’s just a half-hour’s drive from Seattle.

Where to Stay: Willows Lodge, in the heart of Woodinville’s wine country, is the ideal property for a home base. The rustic-chic lodge, located on five acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, boasts rooms each outfitted with a fireplace, soaking tub, and private balcony. We love that each guest is treated to a glass of Washington red or white upon arrival.

Where to Play: If you're staying at Willows Lodge, the hotel will lend you complimentary bikes during your stay. Before hitting the wineries, start your morning with a gentle ride along the beautiful Sammamish River, just a block from the hotel.

Where to Taste: Gather the gal pals and choose among the 100-plus wineries in the area. We recommend starting at Novelty Hill Januik, for a tasting and wood-fired pizza on the patio (pictured above). From there, you can move on to Columbia Winery, the stunning Chateau Ste. Michelle, and then head down to àMaurice and Mark Ryan Winery -- both located in the hippest strip mall we've ever seen. If you've had your fill of vino, a stop at the Woodinville Whiskey Co. distillery or the Redhook Brewery might fit the bill.

Where to Eat: The Hollywood Tavern, located within walking distance of the hotel, is the perfect stop for a casual night out. Here, you can have a pre-dinner cocktail by the outdoor fire pit before heading inside for steak and frites. Or, back at Willows Lodge, The Herbfarm offers a nightly nine-course menu, featuring dishes all from their farm, the forest, and the sea. Considering the tasting includes wine pairings, we'd say that the $195 culinary journey is a smart splurge.

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