Travel in Our Own Backyards...

Anxious to get out of Dodge but maybe not so keen on flying at the moment? Whether you’re hoping to go now or when spring comes, we’d like to offer our picks for 2-7 nights away, within driving distance of 13 metropolitan regions in North America. 

Fortunately, we have some wonderful experiences in our own backyards that don’t require TSA screening or a change of time zone. Here are our ideas, working east to west:

New York City:

New York State and Connecticut are home to some stunning lodges on lakes, on farms or in the mountains. Heading straight north, The Point Resort (5.5 hours) is an 11-room Estate in the Adirondacks. 6 nights a week it’s quite casual, however once each week they put on a fabulous black-tie dinner, a fun throw-back to its Rockefeller years. A little closer yet still “upstate” in Amenia is Troutbeck (2.5 hours driving or 2 hours 6 minutes on Metro North).  Think croquet on the lawn, family swim time, craft cocktails, fly fishing, yoga and billiards – there is much to love about this upscale B&B. Winner in the eclectic and whimsical category is Winvian Farm in Morris, CT (2.5 hours). One can rave on about the farm to table food, however we love the cottages – ranging in theme from “Artist” to “Library” to “Helicopter” (we kid you not). An unexpected sort of getaway.

Montreal:

Whether you stay within the Province of Quebec or cross the border to northern New York State, Montreal is close to number of lovely lakeside experiences. Manoir Hovey (1.5 hours) is a gracious manor house with stunning views over Lake Massawippi. We love their cozy suites, their fine food, and the artsy and outdoorsy community of North Hatley. Crossing the border going south, Lake Kora (3 hours 45 minutes) is a small stone and log cabin lodge, with guest rooms set in several buildings, fireplaces in each. A perfect place to cocoon, (or not) with your extended family, as it’s an exclusive-use property. Lake activities abound, fly fishing is terrific, and if the teens wish to play roller hockey or go bowling, they can. 

Boston:

One thing we adore about New England is its proximity to just about everything. Unlike the west, you can drive through 3 states in 3 hours, giving you diversity of experience. The first of two picks in Vermont, Twin Farms (3 hours) is the gold standard when it comes to New England luxury, perfect for a romantic getaway (sans kids) in the woods. A bit further on in Warren, VT is The Pitcher Inn (4 hours), with all the charm and hospitality of a small town setting, showcasing Americana through and through. Heading west, Wheatleigh (2.5 hours) is a sophisticated yet approachable mansion in the Berkshires that is known for its cuisine, although active families and couples will appreciate its many outdoor pursuits. If the sea is your calling, Cliff House Maine (1.5 hours) evokes the feeling of upscale summer camp for families, including lobster dinners. Complete with Adirondack chairs taking in its clifftop and lighthouse views, it’s just minutes from a sandy beach for the kiddies.

Washington, DC:

If being inside the Beltway feels a bit harried, Washingtonians have vast open spaces to which to escape nearby. If you’ve not visited St. Michael’s, MD, The Belmond Inn at Perry Cabin (1 hour 45 minutes) is your excuse to go. Bring your boat or arrive by car, this seaside resort and town are full of charm and warmth. The Inn at Little Washington (1.5 hours) in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is an elegant gourmet escape, including its 3* Michelin restaurant, which one food critic claims is “so good it makes you cry.” With limited mobile phone access in the area, this may be your best escape in many years. Families will love Primland (5 hours) near Blacksburg, VA. The selection of activities is insane: golf, biking, sporting clays, cycling, archery, horseback riding , RTV trail riding, a stargazing observatory and more – this is worth more than a weekend.

Atlanta:

The southeast is rich in experiences, and fortunately Atlanta is well positioned to take good advantage. One of our clients’ all-time favorites in the US is Blackberry Farm (3 hours), in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains. Play outside on the wonderful grounds by day and enjoy world-class cuisine by night. Careful, you might want to buy property here! Montage Palmetto Bluff (4 hours 15 min) is much different, built within a sea island landscape of marshes and rivers. It’s an entire community created around the idea of relaxation, well being, the natural environment and southern hospitality. Slightly further afield on the beach is Kiawah Island (5.5 hours), a wonderful family getaway. Comprised of both a resort and rental homes, days are simple here, with sandcastles, bicycles, golf and those you care about most.

Miami:

Floridians are quite spoiled for choice when it comes to nearby-getaways. Here are two, among many, that are on our radar screens: Aqualina Resort and Spa (45 minutes) in Sunny Isles is our pick for families, with a variety of guest rooms and residences on offer. The little ones become little mariners, and can learn about the sea through educational activities. To channel your inner Buffett (as in Jimmy), head over to Key West and Sunset Key Cottages (3.5 hours) on an islet near town. We like that town is there if you want it, but you’re not right in the mix. This can be a great option for multi-generational travel, as the resort is accessible and has spacious, well-designed multi-bedroom accommodations, right on the beach.

Chicago:

Cerulean is based in Chicago, so we can confirm there isn’t much in the luxe category within driving distance. With beautiful Wisconsin at our doorstep, there are no lack of lakes, rivers, outdoor summer theater, water parks and cabins-in-the-woods to keep us entertained. A good option if seeking a more resort-style weekend is The American Club (2 hours 45 minutes), in Kohler, WI, north of Milwaukee. World-class golf is a key draw, it has a very good spa, and for those fascinated by bathroom fixtures and fittings, the Kohler Showroom is quite a lot of fun. A nice 2-night escape from the city.

Toronto:

Toronto has so many lovely hotels within the city, we can hardly blame you if you don’t want to leave! Similar to Chicago in relation to its surroundings, lake houses and cabins abound and beckon urbanites in all directions. For a more high-touch experience, Langdon Hall Country House (1.5 hours) offers a cultural getaway, featuring Relais & Chateaux dining, art, wine and beer tastings, along with their lovely Olmsted gardens.

Dallas:

Not too far from the Dallas Fort Worth area, spa aficionados are excited to welcome Miraval Austin Resort & Spa (3.5 hours). Opened in 2019, this well-thought-out sanctuary offers hilltop views of Lake Travis, myriad fitness classes, healthy fare, spa treatments and signature experiences such as equine interactions. Guests leave feeling pampered and refreshed.  The Inn at Dos Brisas (3 hours 15 minutes) is a ranch getaway, complete with hayrides, horses, farming and clay shooting. Grab a gourmet picnic or teach the kids the fundamentals of archery. A leisurely escape for a few days.

Denver:

There are some really special out-of-the-way places worth considering if you are happy to drive 4-5 hours. In far western Colorado, Gateway Canyons Resort (5 hours) sits amongst stunning mesas and rock formations, perfect for hikers. For those seeking relaxation, take advantage of the spa, local winery tours, or indulge your love of learning with their resident anthropologist who unlocks the mysteries of the red rocks for guests. In Wyoming, Brush Creek Ranch (4.5 hours) is a fantastic family bonding opportunity. With cabins, cottages and homes, extended families can enjoy ranch life together. We love the variety of diversions…fire pits with s’mores, a saloon with swinging doors, wrangling, paintball, yoga, mountain biking, shooting, ropes courses, and more. Just over the border in New Mexico lies Vermejo (5 hours). Essentially a safari in the US West, TV magnate Ted Turner purchased vast tracks of land for conservation purposes, so you will truly be where the buffalo roam! An exclusive and indigenous American experience.

Vancouver:

This part of the world has so many stunning locations it’s hard to choose which to share! If you’re seeking to disappear from the grid, we have two ideas. Set on a wild western beach in Tofino, BC, TheWickanninsh Inn (5.5 hours) is an elegant gourmet retreat that also attracts outdoor enthusiasts. If you love storm-watching, mother nature can put on a show here; the Inn and its large windows offer the perfect vantage point.  Not far away although more in the “glamping” (glamorous camping) category, is Clayoquot Wilderness Resort (5.5 hours). A tented safari lodge, guests may be under canvas, but the camping analogy stops there. Gourmet food, incredible coastal waterways, lush forests, great design, this may be one of the more Instagrammable properties in Canada. Closer to home, Whistler is always a favorite, in winter or summer. Four Seasons Resort and Residences (1 hour 45 minutes) is our go-to in this region. Spot-on Four Seasons service, a commitment to excellence and lovely accommodations always make a stay here enjoyable. 

San Francisco:

Bay Area residents know their backyards well – they are forever exploring the gorgeous coastline, wine regions and national parks with which northern California is blessed. For a private and quiet retreat, we love Post Ranch Inn (3.5 hours) in Big Sur. With to-die-for-coastal views, most guests only leave their rooms to dine in the wonderful restaurant. Rejuvenation is assured. Families can play together at Carmel Valley Ranch (3 hours) about 15 minutes from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Learn about bee keeping, enjoy garden and ranch tours, take advantage of the kids’ club and terrific spa. Wine country has so many terrific options, we’ll just mention one here: Vintage House (2 hours) in Yountville, CA, just across the way from The French Laundry. Walking distance from many excellent restaurants (always a plus in Napa), they can curate any number of exclusive wine experiences in the valley, and also teach you how to saber a bottle of sparkling wine. 

Los Angeles:

Once clear of the LA traffic, it’s not long to reach some of southern California’s incredible retreats. On a hill overlooking charming Santa Barbara is Belmond El Encanto (2 hours 45 minutes). We adore the cozy rooms, the views, the spa (especially) and the serenity of this full-service resort. Everything is delivered perfectly, without pomp and circumstance; we feel at home here. Given recent events, we might all be due for a dose of The Ranch at Malibu (1.5 hours). This is a place to cleanse our souls, with yoga, meditation, digital detox, vegan food and exercise. A life-changing experience for many, offering 4- and 7-night programs. To the south, Rancho Valencia (2.5 hours) in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, is the perfect haven. Everything you want in a resort property – Relais & Chateaux food and wine, spa, fitness, tennis, pool – elevated. Forget the world for a few days and simply reconnect with a loved one.

Your next road trip?

Whether you selectively skimmed your home region, or you devoured each link and hung in there with us to the end, we thank you for reading this far and for remembering that travel can be easy, close, and wonderfully exotic, even in our own backyards. Keep exploring – you and those you care about deserve the benefits that travel and escape from the every day bring to our hearts, minds and bodies.