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Bedding Down in the North Olympic National ParkBy Barbara BallardThe 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, cycling, viewing rainforests, soaking in natural hot springs—the list goes on and on. There’s high mountains, gently rolling hills, rainforests, sun, and snow.
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.
To StayBishop Victorian Hotel
Five Seasuns B&B ©2001 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. |
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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.
So for readers, here’s
two places I stayed and give an 11 out of 10: 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. While I was in
Port Townsend, I stayed in an unusual hotel, The Bishop, a former Victorian
hotel, now refurbished 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. 
Lake Crescent Lodge
Sol Duc Hot Springs