What romantic can resist fine vintages from picturesque wineries blended with hearty local fare, pastoral scenery, and a fireside guestroom? Dotted throughout the Yakima Valley, Columbia Valley and Walla Walla are around 150 wineries. Drive or bicycle back roads from winery to winery. Finish tasting with a picnic many wineries offer picnic grounds and deli-style offerings. Or head for a riverside park. Country inns provide charming lodgings and gourmet food.
Stand-outs include: Wine Country Inn in Prosser, book a romantic dinner on the terrace overlooking the Yakima River, or, pop the cork while popping the question at Bonair Winery - Owners provide mood music and an amorous setting to help capture the perfect proposal. The historic (circa 1928) Marcus Whitman Hotel in downtown Walla Walla recently underwent top to bottom renovations to bring back its former opulence for those who want nostalgia in their romance. The town's homes reflect fascinating Gothic, Victorian and vintage architecture as well as three from Frank Lloyd Wright (outside viewing only).
www.visityakima.com,
www.visittri-cities.com and
www.wallawalla.com.
Nine wineries are now clustered in the Snoqualmie Valley and neighboring Sammamish and Snohomish Valleys, just east of Seattle. Countryside attractions here include the Snoqualmie Steam Train, Snoqualmie Falls, organic produce farms, an herb farm, and small towns sprouting antique stores. The new Northwest-style Willows Lodge (
www.willowslodge.com) is nestled along the Sammamish River and is near two of Washington's leading wineries and a microbrewery. Amenities include a 3,000-square-foot spa, garden courtyards and the four-star Herbfarm restaurant. The staff at the luxurious Salish Lodge are experienced at making special arrangements for the person who wants to pop the question creatively,
www.salishlodge.com or 800-826-6124.
LOCALS SUGGEST:
- Small, family-run wineries can be the most spontaneous.
- Ask for a vineyard tour to learn about soils, pruning, and harvest.
- Look for spring and fall festivals centered on “May wine” and the autumn crush.
- Microbreweries next door to many wineries offer hearty brewpub fare.
