WEEKEND GETAWAYS :: FRIDAY HARBOR HOUSE

I mentioned last week that I’d be making a little escape for the weekend as a birthday treat to myself, and I have to say my only regret is that it couldn’t have lasted longer. There’s something magical about misty fall weather around the San Juan Islands… it makes for an incredibly peaceful escape from the city…

On Friday afternoon, my bestie and I headed north on a little road trip, and hopped a ferry to Friday Harbor…

On this chilly day, it was practically deserted, with most passengers cozying up inside with a book. We opted for lattes and sightseeing in the fresh air…

When we arrived, our lodging for the night greeted us just a few short blocks from the ferry…

Friday Harbor House with its charming rooms, friendly staff, and insanely gorgeous views made us feel right at home… I wanted to immediately curl up by the fireplace and just sit here for hours, watching the ships go in and out of the harbor. But, we had dinner reservations at their restaurant to keep, so we freshened up and headed down for a little birthday celebrating…

The meal was perfection, but the salmon may have been my favorite. It tasted insanely fresh, and the flavors were spot on! So was the wagyu steak, for that matter. Chef Kyle Nicholson took good care of us, coming out to chat about the dishes, letting us in on all the fresh, local ingredients, and spoiling me with a little dessert too…

The next morning, we headed back down to the restaurant for a delicious breakfast with freshly made quiches and baked goodies before indulging in massages at the Lavendera Day Spa, just a few blocks away. A quaint little place, the ladies there really know what they’re doing! I was pretty much melted for the rest of the day…

We stopped in for lunch at the Cask & Schooner where the mussels I ordered blew me away. Seriously, some of the biggest shells I’ve ever had! Just the right amount of nautical decor with a view of the harbor made it absolutely charming. If I lived here, I know this would be my local haunt!

A little more wandering through the marina, and back up to the hotel and we had to call it a day to hop our ferry back home. I was so not ready to leave, but the quick trip reminded how easy it really is to head  a few hours north for such a beautiful getaway. The change of pace and calming views are absolutely worth it. I know I’ll be back soon.

*thanks to friday harbor house, the bluff restaurant and lavendera spa for spoiling me on my birthday!!