by Priscilla Pilon
Travelers, now more than ever, are looking for an escape from the weariness of COVID and they want to be in beautiful places with plenty of outdoor spaces for adventure, en Plein air dining, and to experience nature safely. We’ve traveled to Newport, Rhode Island, Saratoga, Wyoming and Carmel-by-the-Sea to bring you destinations that make for perfect getaways within the United States.
An easy drive from any New England state, historic Newport is the sailing capital of the world and so much more. During the Gilded Age, America’s wealthiest families, such as the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Dukes, called this City by the Sea home during the summer months. The Preservation Society has preserved a dozen mansions that are open to the public and the Newport Historical Society has several historic Newport buildings open to tour including Rough Point, the home of the Society’s original benefactor, Doris Duke.
Miles of beaches delight tourists who crave ocean views while enjoying some exercise. Easton’s Beach, nicknamed First Beach is Newport’s largest stretch of beach. The surf’s up most days at Sachuest Beach, or Second Beach, as it is more commonly known, and is just over a mile from Newport in the adjacent town of Middletown. Drive over to historic Ft. Adams, where you can tour the Fort, rent a sailboat for the afternoon at the public sailing center, Sail Newport. or picnic there are at nearby Kings Park Beach in Newport Harbor. If you are lucky enough to have purchased tickets the previous winter, you’ll find yourself at Fort Adams for the weekend to enjoy the annual Jazz and Folk Festivals.
Fresh off-the-boat lobsters and clam chowder are quintessentially Newport dishes offered at dozens of downtown restaurants, two of the most famous being The Black Pearl and the Clarke Cookhouse on the legendary Bannister’s Wharf.
Newport is a wonderful shopping destination. You’ll find everything from antiques and vintage clothing to nautical-themed gifts and houseware items. The fashionable clothing store Michael Hayes sells clothes and accessories for men and women from international designers and the one-off store C.K. Bradley offers colorful preppy summertime styles.
Hotel Viking has been hosting visitors since 1926. It is the grand dame of Bellevue Avenue, within a short walk to the famous La Forge Casino Restaurant and the prestigious International Tennis Hall of Fame. The Chanler is a boutique hotel overlooking Easton’s Beach. It is at the foot of the scenic Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile public access walkway along the shoreline with century-old Gilded Mansions on the other side.
Need to Know
TF Green Airport is 30 minutes away
Boston’s Logan Airport is 90 minutes away
All you’ll need to know will be found at Discover Newport. org
Nestled amid the Sierra Madre and Snowy Mountain ranges in Wyoming, Magee Homestead, Relais & Chateaux property, is an unspoiled destination for a COVID-friendly family reunion, girl’s getaway, or guy’s retreat. The property is part resort, part Wild West playground. Magee is an upscale, all-inclusive ranch with dozens of wonderful experiences like; fly fishing for rainbow, brook, and brown trout, horseback riding on 55 miles of single and double trails, hiking with expert guides, instruction for shooting sports, and yoga overlooking 30,000 acres of the Platte River Valley.
The onsite spa facilities include treatment areas for massages, facials, and body wraps. In the wintertime, guests especially enjoy the grotto soaking pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room.
The Homestead is an exclusive hideaway with nine luxury accommodations. A total of 27 guests stay in individual log cabins (two multi-room suites are available) decorated with chic rustic western accents.
As with all Relais & Chateaux properties, food, wine and spirits play a major role in guests’ enjoyment. Executive Chef Ulfet takes advantage of its parent property Brush Creek Ranch’s Wagyu beef and vegetables grown in the 20,000 square foot greenhouse. Cocktails are handcrafted by expert mixologists and are best sipped fireside.
Need to Know
Nearest Airports: Denver Airport – 199 miles, Laramie Regional – 66 miles
Address: 6429 WY HWY 130, Saratoga, Wyoming 82331
Phone: 307-327-2031
Email: GuestServices@MageeHomestead.com
A charming community by sea, this one-square mile village makes for an idyllic destination for a quick respite from all things COVID. It boasts a pristine beach perfect for long walks on its sandy shores, world-class dining options and unique one-of-a-kind artisan shops.
The historic L’Auberge Hotel, built in 1929, is in the heart of the town walking distance to the famous Carmel beach, wine tasting venues and upmarket art galleries. Each of their 20 rooms are decorated with rich fabrics and antiques, but what makes this property extra special is the attention to detail and superb personalized guest services.
Executive Chef Justin Cogley heads the award-winning restaurant Aubergine. His cuisine is nothing short of genius – he takes advantage of local in season ingredients and delivers an outstanding eight course Tasting Menu five nights a week, expertly paired with wines from their notable 2,500 bottle wine cellar.
Need to Know
Nearest Airport: Monterey Regional – 6.6 miles
Address: Monte Verde St &, 7th Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923
Phone: 831-624-8578
Email: info@laubergecarmel.com
All photo’s by Priscilla Pilon unless otherwise noted