Book by: ASAP
Travel by: Various through 2008
The deal
Tired of city living and need to get away? We recommend a nature escape that won’t involve roughing it but rather living it up in a scenic pastoral setting. We’ve selected our favorite rustic inns and lodges in North America, where rates start from just $130/night. From remote Canadian wilderness to bucolic charms of southern Vermont and rugged Appalachian beauty of Tennessee, we found a trio of award-winning spots where every cent you spend will be worth the splurge.
Wickaninnish Inn, British Columbia
For rustic elegance on the western edge of British Columbia, book a sojourn at Wickaninnish Inn. This multiple-award-winner provides top level of luxury in a remote setting. Frommer’s writes, “Perennially ranked as one of the top inns in North America, the Wick succeeds by blurring the distinction between outdoors and indoors through art, furnishings, architecture, and building materials.” The Pointe Restaurant is a coveted dining spot while the Ancient Cedars Spa offers a range of signature holistic treatments. Rates start at $260/night in the lowest season, through February 29. Peak-season summer rates run up to $480, so head there soon!
Deerhill Inn, Vermont
To take in the rustic charms of southern Vermont, stay at top-ranked Deerhill Inn. Of this delightful New England property, Condé Nast Traveler writes, “They've (the owners) decorated the place in an ‘eclectic country’ style with found items (antique rocking chairs, hand-sewn bedspreads) but manage to avoid knickknackery. And naturally, they serve up indulgent breakfasts and dinners.” The 14 rooms come complete with designer linens, high-end toiletries and mod perks like wireless internet access. Rooms regularly start at $130/night for a standard double and go up to $240 for a two-room garden suite — terrific rates for such a stellar sojourn.
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
For a rural escape paired with gourmet cuisine in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountain, nothing tops Blackberry Farm. This country estate in Tennessee sports a long list of prestigious awards, including the Wine Spectator Grand Award and the No. 1 in Service in the World award by Travel + Leisure. A true working farm steeped in Appalachian tradition, this celebrated resort ensures utmost culinary excellence. Nightly rates in one of the 65 plush units start at $745, with three meals and pantry snacks. A two-night stay is required. The $372 per person rate may seem high but it provides a nonpareil experience of luxury and culinary indulgence.
More notable rustic inns & lodges
The Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise
The Point Resort, Upstate New York
Walden Country Inn & Stables, Ohio
Salish Lodge & Spa, Washington
The dollars
See nightly rates above, based on double occupancy.
The catch
You’ll have to make do without urban stimuli.
is a guide to top travel deals and destinations. Sign up for Sherman's Top 25 e-newsletter which features the best editor-screened deals from hundreds of travel providers and is delivered to over 4 million subscribers, free, each week. ShermansTravel also publishes trip ideas and travel features to inspire, guide, and go