Bedding Down in the North Olympic National ParkBy Babara Ballard
Recently I enjoyed a number of the area’s attractions over a long weekend—not enough time to take in everything, especially when hiking time is involved, and when you consider that the Olympic National Forest covers 632,000 acres. One thing I always enjoy is a special place to stay at the end of the day. Of course, there’s lots of inexpensive camping spots, and cabins are available in the National Park. But I always say go for it and hang the expense, that is, if it’s an extra special celebration.
While I was in Port Townsend, I stayed in an unusual hotel, The Bishop, a former Victorian hotel, now refurbrished in the period but updated to the 21st century in its amenities. In Port Angeles (use the town only for a base, there’s nothing to spend time on there), I can highly recommend the Five SeaSuns. For the cabin experience both Lake Crescent and Sol Duc have unvarnished entries. To StayBishop Victorian Hotel Lake Crescent Lodge Sol Duc Hot Springs Five Seasuns B&B ©2002 by Barbara Ballard. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from the author is prohibited. B.J.’s photo courtesy B.J.’s Garden Gate. North Olympic Mountains Hurrican Ridge photo courtesy N. Olympic Visitor and Convention Bureau Photo Port Townsend waterfront courtesy Port Townsend Tourism |
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The North Olympic area of Washington State is a great outdoor recreational area for both families and couples wanting to get away from it all and experience nature. It’s surrounded by water on three sides and has 10 major rivers. Kayaking, river rafting, fishing, boating, hiking, cycyling, viewing rainforests, soaking in natural hot springs—the list goes on and on. There’s high mountains, gently rolling hills, rainforests, sun, and snow. 
The historic town of Port Townsend is a little architectural gem, and Fort Worden National Park, on its outskirts, is a great historical and scenic spot that’s home to a museum, a hostel, and family accommodations. For a sure sighting of wildlife, the Olympic Game Farm, once the home for the animals used in Walt Disney’s films, is located near Sequim, home to the Lavender Festival in July. One thing for certain, there is lots of variety here, not just in the activities but in the accommodations
Two places I stayed that I give an 11 out of 10 are Toad Hall and BJ’s Garden Gate, both located in or near Sequim. They aren’t family spots, far from it. They’re luxurious, romantic get-aways that spoil you rotten.