Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays? Leave the kids with the in-laws for a day or two and head north to Willows Lodge in Woodinville for a peaceful, pampering retreat.
Located in the heart of Washington's wine country (less than 90 minutes north of Joint Base Lewis-McChord), the lodge features 84 rooms as well as an on-site spa, award-winning dining choices and of course, plenty of local wine.
With its wood, natural stone and verdant décor, Willows Lodge reflects the epitome of ‘Pacific Northwest.' Set on five acres alongside the Sammamish River, the facility features gazebo gardens and courtyards flush with native flora.
For couples looking to rekindle romance, Willows Lodge delivers. All of the rooms feature a private fireplace and balcony or patio as well as an oversize tub suitable for soaking. The spa offers a variety of massage, facial, body and nail treatments, including a couple's fireside massage room and riverside cabanas for outside treatments in the summer. There is also an outdoor Jacuzzi (open year-round) and indoor steam room.
Foodies will appreciate Willows' dining choices, both located adjacent to the lodge. At The Barking Frog, diners can't make a bad choice. Unique options include Grilled Snake River Farms Pork Chop, Dungeness Crab Cakes Benedict and Grand Marnier Prawns, all prepared by executive chef Bobby Moore. For those really wanting to go all out, try The Herbfarm Restaurant, a Triple A 5-Diamond eatery (one of only 42 in the country) that features a variety of unique nine-course dinners. Both offer thousands of wine choices.
In addition to the lodge's on-site spa and restaurants, there is plenty in the immediate area to keep visitors occupied - with several vineyards within walking distance. For instance, Chateau Ste. Michelle and JM Cellars are right across the street, and the Redhook Brewery, Columbia Winery and Novelty Hill/Januik are just up the hill.
Willows Lodge offers a variety of special packages depending on what visitors want to do. For couples who prefer to keep their activities in-room, Willows offers a "Do Not Disturb" package that includes a "nicer" room,  in-tub dining (complete with bubbles and floating rose petals), sparkling wine for two, candles and a tray with strawberries, whipped cream and warm chocolate in a fondue pot. Cost starts at $390 and includes a $100 credit at the Barking Frog.
For those who prefer to be pampered, try the Spa Pamper Package. Starting at $490, the package includes a "nicer" room, welcome amenities and a $200 credit toward The Spa at Willows, where choices include deep tissue and Lomi Lomi massages, body scrubs, Decleor and Carita facials, hot stone pedicures and much more.
There are a variety of other packages available. Check the website at www.willowslodge.com or call (425) 424-3900 for more information and reservations.

[Willows Lodge, 14580 NE 145th St., Woodinville, Wash., 425.424.3900]

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