Even though I grew up in the Seattle area, a hidden gem that’s only a 40-minute ferry ride away eluded my attention for years. But once I discovered the Olympic Peninsula and all the beauty that it holds, I take any excuse to get back there!

Thankfully, a wedding recently drew us back and I decided this secret was too good to keep to myself. For this week’s Gotta Getaway, I give you my little slice of the Olympic Peninsula.

Sitting between Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean are the Olympic mountains – and at the base of that range are gorgeous little gems like this one – the Alderbrook Resort – aka one of my favorite places ever.

Alderbrook is the perfect destination for those who love camping as much as they love a touch of luxury. This spot gives you the perfect combination of both. Think remote destination with no cell phone coverage yet the most comfortable hotel bed you’ve ever slept in.

Walking up, looking out at the lone seal swimming in Hood Canal’s calm waters, eating oysters that were plucked from the bed in front of you, enjoying the views of soaring mountain tops {that you can scale if you’re so inclined} is my happy place.

The sun may not always shine, though it often does, and the water might not alway be warm, though it often is. No matter what the conditions, this area will envelope you with a calming energy, astounding beauty and a damn fine bloody mary – complete with crab claw – that will always leave you wanting more.

Hood Canal – stay classy. We’ll be back soon!

images by me {eek!} and the mister