Elizabeth Rose is back again in the Phoenix area after more than a decade living in New Mexico and Washington state. She travels throughout the West and beyond writing about destinations, accommodations, festivals, and restaurants, especially farm to table cuisine. As an expert in cultural tourism, her writing reflects that passion. She has won awards for her photography and accompanies her articles with her own images. She also provides photos for magazine covers, web sites and magazine articles (both print and online).

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Discover Luxury at Alderbrook Resort in the Pacific Northwest

Elizabeth Rose | 2026-03-31

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Unwind at Alderbrook Resort, a stunning getaway in Union, WA, perfect for exploring and relaxing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Ideal Pacific Northwest weather, with clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures, set the stage for our extended weekend full of exploring, relaxing, and indulging at this destination resort in Union, Washington. Alderbrook Resort & Spa, with its stunning waterfront location on Hood Canal, is a haven for those seeking respite from the city’s bustle.

A Pacific Northwest Gem

Getting to Alderbrook is half the fun. A ferry ride across Puget Sound sets the tone for relaxation as you begin your journey to this coastal paradise. Travel two hours, west and then south, from Seattle to find Alderbrook Resort & Spa tucked up along the tranquil shores of Hood Canal. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Olympic Mountains, this saltwater inlet is a fjord formed by glaciers during the last ice age. With a bit of imagination, you may feel as if you are in another part of the world.

Once there, immerse yourself in a world of comfort and luxury.

The stunning grounds at Alderbrook Resort &Spa. Photo by Richard Schmitz

The History and Timeless Charm Of Alderbrook

When it opened in 1913, no roads led to Alderbrook Resort. Guests arrived by canoe. Original accommodations consisted of simple black and orange-striped canvas tents, with guests chilling their milk and food supplies in the cold waters of the nearby creek.

Over the years, this Washington state resort has seen many iterations and several owners but always managed to keep that rustic Pacific Northwest charm. Today, the resort is owned by North Forty Lodging, which completed an extensive overhaul of the facilities and reopened in 2004. Boasting 77 guest rooms, 16 waterfront cabins, and private houses, all with Craftsman-style exteriors and interiors that mimic a family beach house, the refurbished resort quickly became a desired Northwest destination.

Walking into the lobby, we found the lodge stately, stunning, yet comfortable, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Its high ceilings, plush sofas, and stone fireplace exude a “big cabin” feel. It is the perfect communal space to enjoy a game of cribbage or curl up on one of the comfy couches with a good book. Perhaps one of the resort cats, Alder or Brook, will join you.

In addition, Alderbrook houses 6,600 square feet of meeting space, creating a beautiful backdrop for weddings, a world-class restaurant, a fitness center, a marina with 1,500 linear feet of guest moorage, and a spa.

Old world charm looking back at Alderbrook resort from guest dock. Photo by Richard Schmitz

The Spa at Alderbrook

The spa at Alderbrook underscores the world of comfort. Mirroring the serene beauty of Washington State’s Hood Canal, the spa at Alderbrook invites you to reconnect with nature. My relaxation began immediately as I breathed in the fresh scents of cedar and evergreen commonly found here in Washington. Here, you’ll find a sanctuary designed to restore balance to your mind, body, and soul. As hard as it is to choose, try indulging in one of the spa’s rejuvenating treatments, from soothing massages incorporating warm basalt stones and aromatherapy to hydrating body wraps to revitalizing facials. Or, if time allows, try a range of these pampering services.

Beyond the spa, the resort offers a glass-covered saltwater pool and hot tub overlooking Hood Canal—the perfect place to sink down and soak in the breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. We split our time between the pool, hot tub, and hot sauna soak, which made us feel like we stepped into a private oasis, a world away from our everyday lives.

Culinary Delights at The Restaurant at Alderbrook

The Restaurant at Alderbrook has a simple yet unpretentious name that makes perfect sense once you’ve eaten there. The dining experience sets the standard for what a Restaurant should be. The food prepared by Chef Sara Harvey is unrivaled, and as vegetarians, we enjoyed seeing several options on the menu, creating a feeling of culinary inclusion.

Highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients is the name of the game at Alderbrook, and their success shines through in every bite. We were treated to expertly prepared and thoughtful dishes with seasonal touches and distinct flavors, from foraged mushrooms to savory spices orchestrating a symphony in our mouths. Each meal, be it a breakfast of oatmeal drizzled with cinnamon and maple syrup or a dinner of seasonal pasta, was memorable, from the friendly front-of-house to the attentive and authentic servers. The Restaurant not only highlights the best tastes of the northwest but is also a highlight of any trip to Alderbrook.

If you have time and are a seafood lover, try an excursion into Union and head for Hook & Fork to sample seasonal fresh catches of the day. Their specialty is oysters, which are enjoyed best while sitting alongside the pristine waters of Hood Canal.

Breakfast of oatmeal drizzled with cinnamon and maple syrup at Alderbrook Resort. Photo by Richard Schmitz

Things to Do at Alderbrook

When not feasting on local cuisine, why not go exploring? There are many activities on this 88-acre property, including numerous hiking trails where we immersed ourselves for an afternoon amidst the lush evergreen forests. Grabbing a trail guide from the concierge desk, we headed off for a few hours of Forest Bathing, the Japanese art form of “Shinrin Joku.” Enjoy a meditative walk, throw a wishing stone into the creek (and make a wish), or sit for a spell and soak up the rejuvenating properties of the forest.

Forest bathing at Alderbrook Resort. Photo by Richard Schmitz

For those seeking aquatic adventures, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding through the calm waters of Hood Canal provide a serene escape. Alternatively, embark on a scenic cruise aboard the resort’s boat, Lady Alderbrook, to admire the stunning coastal views.

Golf aficionados can enjoy a round at the nearby Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, perfecting their swing amidst the picturesque scenery. With so many options, Alderbrook ensures there’s never a dull moment during your stay.

The Lady Alderbrook at Alderbrook Resort. Photo by Richard Schmitz

A Perfect Getaway for Everyone

Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a welcoming destination for travelers of all ages and with furry friends in tow. But for many, the allure of Alderbrook itself is enough.

Alderbrook Resort & Spa is a destination dedicated to making memorable moments. Whether you’re a couple yearning for romance, a family craving quality time together, or a solo traveler seeking rejuvenation, this coastal retreat has something to offer. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, indulge in world-class spa treatments, savor exquisite cuisine, or unwind by the tranquil waters, sipping a glass of wine and watching the sunset. With a range of accommodations, activities, and amenities, Alderbrook is a Pacific Northwest paradise.