Kenmore, Washington
The Lodge at St. Edward State Park
A thoughtfully restored and beautifully revamped landmark
What it is
A new 84-room retreat in a 1931 Romanesque Revival seminary, with a farm-to-table restaurant, luxe spa and 326 forested acres of waterfront fun on Lake Washington.
What it isn't
Boring. On-site activities include painting lessons with their artists-in-residence; croquet; mountain biking; and riding in a 1938 Pontiac Stretch limousine (for an additional fee).
What we think
The upstart theology students that once lived here would be gobsmacked by its current state. Having eschewed its vow of poverty, luxe touches abound in every room: amenities include BeautyRest Black Napa mattresses, pillow menus, Nespresso machines, zippy free Wifi, and flatscreen HD TV’s that will handily stream your latest binge. Upgrade to the Daniels Suite—worthy of the Pope himself—for 718 sumptuous square feet of breathing room, where the arched windows peep out on the lake. While you’re here, take full advantage of the spa; treatments are seasonal, herbal and often organic, just as the universe intended.
You're here because
You're a bonafide foodie and love how perfectly (and delectably) Cedar + Elm showcases the Pacific Northwest's natural bounty—order the Everything Spiced Flatbread with smoked Chinook salmon and dill creme fraiche.
The Moment
Afternoon tea is serious business in the seminary’s former dining hall, where even the Queen would be wowed by the menu: beignets and scones with clotted cream; brioche stuffed with wild mushroom duxelle; black truffled egg salad sandwiches...you know it’s afternoon tea, but can’t you have it for every meal?
Restaurants & Bars
Cedar + Elm - inspired by a Pacific Northwest approach and focuses on seasonality, sustainable sourcing, and harvesting
Father Mulligan’s Heritage Bar - offers classic cocktails, craft beers, and local wines as well as wood-fired flatbreads, charcuterie, burgers, seafood, and sweet treats
Location
Just 25 minutes drive from Seattle in St. Edward State Park, where you can meander herbaceous-scented trails through forests of western hemlock, red cedar, douglas fir, and bigleaf maple trees.