Romantic Getaways in Seattle area

Plan a truly thoughtful and romantic escape and sweep your beloved off his or her feet. From the mountains to the islands, the state of Washington offers a multitude of weekend getaway spots where a couple can relish time spent with one another.

Whether you prefer getting back to nature on a rainforest hike, savoring the sensual stimulation of a spa treatment, or sampling fine food and wine in an elegant setting, you'll find the ideal getaway to rekindle your romance. Here is a small sample of the opportunities to be found:

House Boats for Two
Enjoy the intimate haven of your own private houseboat, moored in Brinnon's Pleasant Harbor Marina on the Peninsula. Designed with couples in mind, each houseboat comes equipped with a spa tub, a galley, and a comfortable living area, where you can cuddle up and enjoy the fireplace and entertainment center. Nearby, you will find plenty of opportunity to hike in the Olympic National Park or to view eagles, shore birds, and harbor seals on a sea kayak excursion. House Boats for Two is a 2-hour drive from Seattle, or 3.5 hours from Portland.

Willows Lodge
Willows Lodge, a rustically-luxurious inn and spa, recently opened its doors in Woodinville, just east of Seattle. From rooms with French Press coffee makers and overstuffed beds to continental breakfast by the fire, Willows Lodge offers you and your sweetheart all the thoughtful extras that can make your romantic getaway a heavenly experience. A rejuvenating massage or facial at The Spa at Willows Lodge will delight the senses. Plan in advance and get coveted reservations at the adjacent Herbfarm Restaurant, where you can enjoy four-star dinners that feature ingredients from their very own herb garden. Willows Lodge is within walking distance of the Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia wineries and the Redhook Brewery. After touring and wine tasting, you can purchase picnic goodies in either winery shop for a romantic picnic by Ste. Michelle's vineyards.

Rosario Resort & Spa
What could be more romantic that a grand island resort, completely isolated from the cares and hassles of every day life? Rosario Resort, located on wooded and hilly Orcas Island, is built around a historic mansion. Sprawled along 30 acres of waterfront property, Rosario offers convenient access to outdoor recreation, including biking, flightseeing, and whale watching. Rosario's Spa by the Bay will massage away the last of your tensions, leaving you refreshed and re-energized for more quality time with your sweetheart. Enjoy a romantic dinner for two at one of the resort's dining rooms, or sip drinks in the lounge to the sound of live music. Orcas Island can be reached by ferry or air.

Inn of the White Salmon
The Inn of the White Salmon is an intimate European-style hotel, located in the majestic Columbia River Gorge. The Inn is close to shopping and restaurants, as well as all the natural beauty and recreation that makes the Gorge famous. After enjoying an active day windsurfing or mountain biking, return to the Inn and relax by the fire in the parlor. Or take a scenic drive along the Gorge, stopping to take pictures or to hike at one of the area's many waterfalls. The Inn of the White Salmon has been acclaimed for its bountiful breakfasts; make sure you don't oversleep and miss such delicacies as artichoke frittata or homemade pastries and breads. The town of White Salmon is across the Columbia from Hood River, Oregon, just one hour east of Portland.