Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes

Whether you're looking for a lake retreat or an island vacation, Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes is an accessible San Juan Island getaway. Its three spring water lakes on 82 acres provide a welcome outdoor escape with many activities available right on the resort grounds, plus a wealth of things to do elsewhere on San Juan Island.

The lakefront accommodations are likely to suit anyone's getaway needs. For those in search of romance, the lodge offers cozy single or double guestrooms. On the larger side, the cabins can sleep up to six guests, ideal for group vacations or families. For people looking to get especially in touch with the outdoors, 73 tent sites await in the Lakedale Campground. Guests enjoy lake or territorial views from all accommodations.

From Romance to Rustic Rigor

Couples looking for a quiet, romantic retreat may want to know that the ten-room lodge was named by the Fine Living Channel as one of the Top Ten Romantic Getaways in the country. The lodge borders Neva Lake, offering sweeping views, and is decorated lodge style in pine and fir with forest green accents. Guests are warmly greeted by the staff and, on cool days, a roaring fire in the slate fireplace.

Guests may choose from three styles of lodge guestrooms, but for a special occasion, the one to request is room number seven. This two-room suite has a relaxing forest view and plenty of room to relax. Other rooms offer two full-size or one queen bed and overlook the lake. Lodge rooms have a deck, gas fireplace and jetted tub, all designed to help guests absorb the beauty of the lakes and surrounding woodlands. Lodge guests also receive a delicious continental breakfast in the dining room.

The two log cabins near the lake as well as a large three-bedroom, three-bathroom lake house put activities like swimming, fishing and canoeing practically at your doorstep. The cabins have gas fireplaces and are decked out with everything you need, including a full kitchen with cookware and service for six, plus a microwave, coffee maker and toaster. To help guests enjoy a summer night, there is an outdoor fire ring with a grill and picnic table.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Lakedale's many campsites. They're the perfect place to call home for a few days and reconnect with nature. Also available are "canvas cabins" that provide the experience of camping without having to pitch a tent.

Packing in the Action

There's no shortage of things to do both in the resort and on the island. To help guests take advantage of its many lakes, the Lakedale Resort rents rowboats, canoes and paddleboats. The lakes are well stocked for a quiet day of fishing, and there are walking trails to enjoy the grounds.

Activities abound outside of the resort as well. Mardi always makes a point of shopping in Friday Harbor, which is known for its art galleries, antique shops, bookstores and boutiques. A number of good restaurants and pubs are in town, and for extra adventure, you can book a whale watching tour, rent a bicycle, or take winery or local artisan tours.

I am a mountain-girl and staying here at Lakedale made it seem like I was back in a Idaho lodge as I sat in the large chairs, read my book and looked out on the lake.