When you think of luxury travel, what comes to mind? A gorgeous resort in a tropical location, a high-end hotel in a European city? Because of this mindset, many people think that luxury travel is not a realistic dream. However, a memorable, luxurious vacation does not necessarily require a passport or even a plane ride!
There are several advantages to traveling closer to home. If you can drive to your destination, you save the cost (and headache) of air travel and car rental (if needed). This savings can be put toward a stay at a higher-end resort, a room upgrade (hello suite!) or activities at your destination (did someone say spa?). By staying closer to home, you can plan a shorter stay, if that's what fits your schedule or budget. And you won't have to worry about jet lag either!
At the Curated Travel Collection, I help my clients find and plan the perfect travel destination for their needs but here are some of my favorite destinations in different parts of the United States that are easy to get to in just a few hours drive.
The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, PA
2 hours from New York City, 3 hours from Philadephia
Set on over 500+ pristine wooded acres with a 15-acre private lake, The Lodge at Woodloch is an award-winning destination spa resort located in the Lake Region of Northeast Pennsylvania. An adult-only property, the Lodge at Woodloch is an amazing respite for couples, girlfriend getaways or even solo travel. Stays are inclusive of rooms and all meals, fitness activities and classes, outdoor adventures, use of spa and fitness facilities and most lectures and events.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak in Stowe, VT
5.5 hours from New York City, 3 hours from Boston
A true four-season destination, a visit to Stowe will make you feel as if you have transported to an Alpine village in Europre. Located at the base of Mount Mansfield The Lodge at Spruce Peak (formerly Stowe Mountain Lodge) is Stowe, VT's only ski-in, ski-out luxury lodging destination. The Lodge is your base for year-round adventure and serious relaxation. Featuring a world-class Spa & Wellness Center, 18-holes of elevated mountain golf, adventure concierge team, and a variety of on-property dining and retail options, there's memories to be made at Spruce Peak.
Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham, MA
5 hours from New York City, 1.5 hours from Boston
Chatham Bars Inn is an historic 25-acre seaside resort, located on beautiful Cape Cod. The private, white sand beach that is protected from the Atlantic Ocean and plethora of activities make the Chatham Bars Inn an ideal family destination. The unique shops, galleries, and eateries of historic Chatham are just 1/4 mile from the resort.
Omni Bedford Springs Resort in Bedford Springs, PA
1.5 hours from Pittsburgh, 2 hours from Washington, DC, 3 hours from Philadelphia
Located in South Pennsylvania’s scenic Cumberland Valley, the award-winning Omni Bedford Springs Resort is the ideal destination for you to reconnect with friends and family. From the world-class Springs Eternal Spa to the magnificently restored golf course, the resort provides a luxurious experience. Established in 1806, it is one of last and best-preserved of 19th-century resort hotels based around mineral springs and is a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, MD
1.5 hours from Baltimore and Washington, DC
A charming manor house resort and spa, the Inn at Perry Cabin sits in beautiful gardens that reach down to the gentle waters of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Steeped in history and style, this rural retreat enjoys a reputation as one of the best luxury resorts in Maryland. Relaxation is the order of the day: lounge in the fabulous Spa at Perry Cabin, float in the infinity pool or savor seafood in the gastronomic restaurant. Stroll into St. Michaels to discover intriguing antiques shops—or set out to sea on a yacht or heritage craft.
Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, VA
1 hour from Washington, DC
Nestled within the heart of Virginia's picturesque horse and wine country, Salamander Resort and Spa manifests the historic charm of its timeless home. Sprawling vineyards and wineries surround the delightful village of boutique shops, fine restaurants and fascinating antiquities. An equestrian culture envelopes the town. Here in a place stepped in tradition the community sponsors multiple equestrian events including the oldest horse show in the country. A beautiful setting for gatherings of all kinds – events at the Salamander Resort and Spa are crafted, groomed and polished to an elegant perfection. Inviting rooms from the intimate to the majestic provide space for multiple group sizes. Inspiring activities bring unique options for guests to explore from treetop zip lining and championship golf to equestrian activities at the resort stables.
Omni Park Grove Inn in Asheville, NC
2 hours from Charlotte
Serving guests for over a century, The Omni Grove Park Inn welcomes you with a tradition of southern hospitality amidst the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Relax in the unique subterranean spa or enjoy a round of championship golf on our Donald Ross-designed course. When it’s time to dine, enjoy one of the four locally-sourced restaurants.
Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC
2 hours from Charleston, 3 hours from Jacksonville
Nestled within a lush 20,000 coastal nature preserve between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, Montage Palmetto Bluff delights guests with experiences indigenous to the South Carolina coast. Here, guests enjoy active and relaxing pursuits amid a breathtaking waterfront setting. Activities abound from water to land including, boating, Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf, shooting club, stables and tennis. The soulful Spa Montage and Salon promotes wellness, relaxation and rejuvenation.
La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, TX
3 hours from Houston, 4 hours from Dallas
La Cantera Resort & Spa is a Hill Country oasis featuring two world-class golf courses, five sparkling heated pools, luxurious cabañas, state of the art fitness center, destination spa, and more. Thier state of the art new Loma de Vida Spa and Wellness Center was created for those looking for a new southwest locale to unwind and discover healing elements complimented by Southern Hospitality.
Four Season Vail in Vail, CO
2 hours from Denver
When the mountains are calling, Vail is like nothing on earth. Centrally located with easy access to the slopes, the resort is situated at the front door of this history-rich village, steeped in pioneering spirit and untamed refinement, with legendary Vail Mountain just steps away. Come and celebrate the great outdoors at this four-season resort and then recharge at the award-winning Spa and cap off your days with an al-fresco swim under the stars.
Carmel Valley Ranch in Carmel, CA
2 hours from San Francisco
Carmel Valley Ranch has embarked on an exciting transformation, and emerged as a completely new style of resort that encourages guests to play, engage and connect. Taking full advantage of nearly 500 acres of magnetic landscape, the resort includes scores of programs and activities such as beekeeping, early morning hikes, fitness classes and horseback riding. The Ranch offers a rich array of amenities including a Pete Dye championship golf course, tennis courts, bocce ball and basketball courts, swimming pools, hot tubs, an organic garden and vineyard, kids' splash zone and playground, meeting rooms and a bevy of swings hanging from majestic 300 year old oaks. Our new Spa Aiyana, drawing on the bounty of the region, is currently offering massage, body, and skincare therapies as well as natural nail care.
Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Less than 1 hour from Los Angeles
Poised above coastal bluffs with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Terranea Resort serves as the only luxury destination resort on the Los Angeles coast. The Mediterranean-inspired resort provides a sophisticated retreat for guests with a relaxed ambiance and panoramic seascape views. Celebrated for its natural beauty, the 102-acre estate features guestrooms and suites, including spacious casitas and villas, and The Bungalows at Terranea, a collection of guest accommodations featuring spa and wellness-focused amenities. Other luxurious resort amenities include nine distinct dining experiences, a full-service spa and fitness center, award-winning golf course, four swimming pools, kids club, and ecological enrichment programs.
If you are interested in experiencing any of these incredible properties or any of the other destinations in the Curated Travel Collection, please contact me. I look forward to helping you discover your own ultimate escape.
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