Seattle is one of the jewels of America’s Pacific Northwest. Travelers who find themselves in or near the Emerald City are in for the trip of a lifetime, from the vibrant music scene that has given us many of the world’s most famous artists (and grunge, for which we are eternally grateful) to its love for art. It’s almost permanent “cozy season” weather and the truly stunning, ever-inviting natural beauty that surrounds it; a Seattle travel experience is always worthwhile.

While it’s not exactly tropical, Seattle receives a substantial number of tourists every year, which means that some of its most popular locations and luxury accommodations can become crowded at times.  If it’s Seattle you want, but a more secluded, peaceful trip that gives you the space to step away from the city and enjoy your own company a bit, then these exclusive hideaways (each easily reachable by a short private jet flight around the area) are going to be right up your alley. 

Hotel Sorrento 

Our first option, the historically significant and perfectly decorated Hotel Sorrento, is situated in the city, but don’t let that fool you. A short 20–30 minute drive from the airport (Seattle Tacoma accepts private jet travelers as well as commercial flights, is very conveniently located, and really knows how to look after its guests). Stepping into the Hotel Sorrento is like stepping back in time, but without losing any of the contemporary culture and amenities that keep us both functional and comfortable. Walking in through the 110-year-old Italian Renaissance entryway, you’ll get your first peek at the retro magnificence that awaits you. The dark, rich woods, the Fireside Room that’s hosted many a poet or musician’s gathering: these are just tasters.  

This decor is echoed everywhere in the hotel (especially in the bar, which manages to be cozy and dramatic at the same time and takes you back to the chic speakeasies of the 20s and 30s) except in the bedrooms. The bedrooms at the Sorrento still have all the classic, dramatic features that so many of them were built with, but they’ve been curated to be unique and vibrant, yet still a calm place to relax and take your mind off the day. Soft blues, warm creams, and unique local art pieces give everyone their own character. Marble bathtubs, plush bedding, gorgeous city views; they’ve got it all. 

In terms of dining, while there are many excellent options in the city, you don’t even need to leave the hotel. Stella focuses on the fresh, seasonal ingredients grown and produced in the greater Seattle area. This elegant restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring traditional Italian flair. The warm, calm ambulance will make you want to stay on long after your meal has ended, and there are other locations to adjourn to if you wish: The Fireside Room, the Bar, or The Garden; the rooftop space is ideal for warm days and gorgeous sunset views. 

Salish Lodge and Spa 

Step out of the routine of city life and into a deeper connection to the natural world and hopefully to yourself, too. The Salish Lodge and Spa is perched right on the edge of the thundering Snoqualmie Falls, giving it a dramatic and very romantic edge right off the bat. Even if it weren’t located like a perfect picture in a frame of the most stunning part of the PNW, the Salish would still be chosen by luxury travelers time and time again. 

Proudly owned by the Snoqualmie Native American Tribe, for whom this location is sacred, the lodge brings the outdoors indoors while maintaining a luxurious design ethos. Natural colours and wood accents complement the views, while high thread counts and chic stone fireplaces elevate the experience. Each of the 86 guest rooms and suites features a spa-like shower or soaking tub, often with a river view. It’s the quintessential PNW escape: warm, cocoon-like rooms with crackling fires offering comfort, and the outdoors inviting exploration. David Lynch fans may even recognise the location from the iconic TV series Twin Peaks, partly filmed at the lodge. 

Before heading out for a day of hiking, swimming, biking, golfing, fishing, or other adventures, you should try the breakfast that is part of the reason for Salish’s fame among locals: the four-course Country Breakfast with the lodges on locally produced Honey from Heaven. Dining at Salish is a magical experience, full of both comfort and refinement depending on your preferences. The Restaurant and Terrace Bar do hearty meals made from local, seasonal ingredients, while The Lounge, with its gorgeous earth, wood and water colours, is the perfect spot for light meals, Bar Bites and delicious drinks of cocktails. 

For something a little bit more private, personal, and restorative, book a day at The Spa. A calming haze of cedar and eucalyptus envelops you from the moment you enter, and the face and body therapies available within will make sure that you never want to leave. The spa has been featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s “Top 50 Hotel Spas in the United States,” among other awards, so your experience is guaranteed to be soothing and restorative. 

Semiahmoo 

Our final option sits just outside Seattle on a peninsula stretching into the stunning Salish Sea. Semiahmoo is a family-friendly resort surrounded by Washington’s natural beauty, yet it still stands apart from the state’s many nature-focused luxury retreats. Unlike the more adult-oriented serenity of our other choices, Semiahmoo centres on fun and variety. With its games lawn, nature trails, beach access, bonfires, and sweeping views of Boundary Bay, the entire stay revolves around memorable experiences. 

Adults can slip away to the spa, relax in the sauna, or book a tee time on the golf course. Families can enjoy the pickleball courts, board games, or a scenic bike ride together. After a day full of activity, choose from three on-site dining options. Packers Kitchen and Bar serves comfort food overlooking the bay, while the Great Blue Heron Grill, open to both guests and the public, provides views of the golf course. Seaview Café rounds things out with farm-to-fireside meals and a cozy fireside atmosphere perfect for unwinding. 

Seattle At Its Best 

These scenic, soulful hideaways are the perfect places to get back to you, back to your family, back to nature, back to a little extra luxury and time out. The only question you have to ask yourself is which one you’ll choose.