This past weekend, my husband and I had the chance to visit Willows Lodge in Woodinville for a one-night getaway. It was one of the nicest places we have stayed, and we honestly enjoyed every minute of our Staycation!
We were greeted at check-in with a glass of red wine…what better way to start a vacation, especially in Wine Country! After a quick check-in, where the staff made us feel like we were the only ones staying at the hotel, we checked out our room. The room was beautiful. Big soaking tub with a large window looking into the bedroom, large flat screen TV, fireplace, and a big fluffy bed! The rooms have a very cozy, warm feeling to them.
After getting settled in the room, we headed down to the Fireside Cellars to enjoy some music (every Friday from 5:30pm-8:30pm). With happy hour extending to 6:30pm, it’s a great way to enjoy some beverages and listen to music! The trio of musicians played everything from Brown Eyed Girl to Hotel California to recent hits from Maroon 5 and Jason Mraz. We were having such a nice time sipping wine by the fire, listening to music and chatting, that we actually pushed our dinner reservations back an hour.
We walked around and checked out the Spa before dinner. Willows Lodge has a beautiful spa that eludes relaxation from the moment you step inside. We did not have time on our visit to enjoy the spa, but I really wish we had. The spa treatments are consistent with those you can find other places, but they have the hydrotherapy pool, amidst the tranquil hidden courtyard, that sets it apart from the rest. Hotel guests are welcome to use the pool without spa services.
Willows Lodge is lucky to be very close to two amazing restaurants, The Barking Frog and The Herbfarm. We chose to enjoy dinner at The Barking Frog, and I don’t say this lightly, but I had one of the best meals of my life that night! We started with a prawn appetizer, and splitting a Caesar salad. I had the rack of lamb, which is a regular offering on their menu. It was perfectly prepared, and even my husband, who doesn’t normally care for lamb, thought it tasted great! We finished our meal with three desserts (I know, crazy, huh?). Honestly, we couldn’t decide what to get, one sounded better than the next. And to top everything off, the service was amazing! We actually enjoyed a wonderful brunch the next morning at The Barking Frog also.
One of the things that sets Willows Lodge apart from other local hotels, is its location. Located in the heart of Woodinville wine country, and about 30-40 minutes from Issaquah and the Snoqualmie Valley, it’s a perfect place to stay when wine tasting. In fact my husband and I agreed, a perfect weekend would be to check-in on Friday, enjoy music and dinner, then wine taste on Saturday, then stay a second night and enjoy the spa. I think we may have to go back soon…
Willows Lodgehas kindly offered Macaroni Kid subscribers a special rate, so you may all have an enjoyable Staycation too. Special Rate: 20% off their Best Available Rate from now through May 31, 2011 (excluding Feb 11, 12, 14, and April 16). The code is WLMACKID. As they say “treat yourself to first-class accommodations with ample amenities and genuine service.” Information and reservations: www.willowlodge.com
Current Specials From Willows Lodge and The Barking Frog:
In the Mood
Our Barking Frog culinary team has created this special Aphrodisiac Tasting Menu paired with wines and it’s only available during the month of February. (After you eat this menu, we can’t be responsible for what happens afterward.)
Aphrodisiac Tasting Menu - Dinner and wine pairings are $125 per person.
For reservations, please call 425-424-2999.
Romance Begins in the Kitchen
The Way to a Man’s (or Woman’s) Heart: Our culinary team at the Barking Frog will host complimentary cooking classes in Fireside Cellars teaching attendees “How to Make an Easy Romantic Three-Course Dinner for Your Sweetheart”. The classes will take place in 2 parts on back-to-back Wednesdays in February from 5:30-6:30PM.
Week 1 – Wednesday, February 2 – Chef Bobby Moore of the Barking Frog will prepare a romantic appetizer and entrée
Week 2 – Wednesday, February 9 – Matt Kelley, Pastry Chef at the Barking Frog, will prepare a romantic dessert for 2
No reservations are necessary. Seating is based on first come first serve.
Fireside Cellars opens at 4:00PM, so arrive early and enjoy your favorite glass of wine and appetizers.
Mental Health Mondays - $179
Are you feeling a little stressed and “out of sorts”? Taking a “Mental Health Monday” at Willows Lodge is the sure cure for the wintertime blues. Available: January 12 – April 24, 2011, Sundays only
Your Mental Health Monday’s package includes:
Overnight accommodations in a Nicer style room
Continental breakfast for 2
10% off spa treatments on Mondays
Late check-out - 2:00PM
And…a list of excuses why you didn’t make it into the office
Subject to room and rate availability. Other restrictions may apply.
New Year Resolution #312
Chef Bobby Moore of the Barking Frog kicks off his 2011 Cooking Class Series with recipes for Eating Healthy. Wednesday, January 12 - 5:30-6:30PM - Fireside Cellars
This complimentary class fills up quickly, so you’ll want to arrive early to get a seat. Fireside Cellars opens at 4:00PM, so you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your favorite glass of wine and an appetizer before class begins.
