In my latest story for CNTraveler.com, I profile five Pacific Northwest resorts that would be wonderful choices for a wedding. All have the classic views that lure people to this part of the world—pristine waters reflecting jagged mountains and sky-scraper pines. Every one of them can boast restaurants good enough to attract a local following (and in this food-centric part of the country, that’s saying a lot). And each guarantees the kind of got-your-back service that lets a bride and groom breathe easy. Here, the fab five:
The Edgewater Hotel
1. The Edgewater Hotel, Seattle, WA
It does indeed sit at the edge of the Seattle waterfront (The Beatles stayed here in 1964, and were famously photographed fishing out of their window). And it’s a bit edgy in looks, with plentiful use of river rocks, raw timber, and antlers. But lest you start feeling on edge, relax: The hotel gives you a dedicated event planner who’ll be on the job from first phone call to the last dance.
The Allison Inn & Spa
2. The Allison Inn & Spa, Newberg, OR
The word “inn” is a bit misleading, as this sleek 85-room glass-and-stone resort sits on 35 acres of prime Willamette Valley wine land. While The Allison has become a serious dining destination, wedding couples love it just as much for its wealth of ceremoy and reception sites: gardens, terraces, ballrooms, and private dining spaces.
Salish Lodge and Spa
3. Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie, WA
If you’re old enough to remember director David Lynch’s Twin Peaks television series, you’ll probably recall the opening shots of a magnificent waterfall. That can be the background to your vows at this beloved Seattle getaway, close enough to the city to make traveling here a breeze, but distant enough to ensure you’ll linger all weekend.
Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge
4. Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge, Gold Beach, OR
You’ll want to do a buy-out of this isolated resort on the Rogue River (it sits in the southwest corner of the state, just this side the California state line), so you and guests can spend days pretending you’re back in summer camp–with all the grown-up trimmings. Since they only host half-a-dozen weddings here each year, each event gets true VIP treatment.
The Alderbrook Resort & Spa
The body of water here, officially called the Hood Canal, is actually a mirror-like fjord that links to far-off Puget Sound. Classic Northwestern hospitality with Olympic Mountain views, outrageously fresh oysters, and seals barking under the dock—this is a wedding spot truly worth the journey. — Sally Kilbridge
