The Chrysalis Inn and Spa

Known as Bellingham's hidden treasure, this luxurious award-winning 43-room inn is steps away from the new Taylor Avenue Dock and boardwalk. A prime location, the boardwalk extends out into Bellingham Bay, connecting guests to Boulevard Park and the historical Fairhaven Shopping District.

Owner/manager Mike Keenan fell in love with the area and opened The Chrysalis as an independent Inn so he could retain the creative control of the experience offered to guests.

To help set the stage for that experience, a striking painting in the main foyer, measuring seven feet wide by 11-feet high, meets your eye as you arrive. Called "Wing", it was commissioned by Mike to local artist Astrid Liljegren to illustrate the stage prior to the transformation into a butterfly, for which the Inn is named.

Northwest with an Asian Influence

The Inn's architecture is very open and Northwest with an Asian influence. The living room features a wood burning fireplace and expansive bay views. It opens onto an attached deck that seems to put you within reach of the San Juan Islands towards the west. As you can imagine, the sunsets are spectacular.

Whether you reserve a single room, double room or suite, all offer luxurious appointments beginning with a stunning bay view window seat overlooking sailboat regattas, fishing vessels, soaring eagles and the San Juan Islands rising out of the shimmering waters. Furnished with a contemporary Northwest design, all rooms offer fireplaces, mini bars and two-person soaking tubs (suites have two-person jetted tubs). The slate walk-in showers are a definitive Northwest touch.

On the softer side, you'll find his 'n her robes, cozy slippers, plus luxurious linens and down comforters. No detail is overlooked, right down to the aromatherapy soaps, lotions, and shampoos in your private bath.

A Spa for Your Body and Soul

Rumored to be one of the top 20 luxury coastal spas on the West Coast, Mardi says the Inn's spa services offer a deep relaxation that restores her soul. From massage and facials, to body treatments and hydrotherapy, plus a Vichy shower, steam rooms and a relaxation area, you will simply emerge anew. (Stop by the Hotel Gift Shop and Spa Retail Boutique to bring some of this luxury home with you.)

Three Venues for Eating

With romantic music, idyllic harbor views and a collection of fine art, the dining at the Fino Restaurant is elegant without being pretentious. Executive Chef Scott Jurges has 15 years of experience in prestigious Seattle-area restaurants. He prepares classic European meals, changing his menu with the season, to feature fresh seafood and meats seasoned with herbs, accompanied by local produce.

In addition, the Fino Wine Bar Library offers an intimate fireside lounge for a late-night cheese plate or dessert (my favorite is the rhubarb crème brulee with strawberries). Mardi and I have also enjoyed many an afternoon indulging in appetizers on the deck with an aperitif. That's the beauty of The Chrysalis, it's ready to serve you with the right level of attention that fits your mood-including room service when you'd rather relax in robes instead of donning dinner attire. Come morning, a complimentary hot and cold breakfast buffet is waiting for you in the main dining room.

We are both train-nuts and love to watch, hear and enjoy them. Our room in the Chrysalis provided us with a luxurious way to enjoy the passing trains.