Page 5 | Uncategorized | Port Ludlow Resort

Crescent Lake, Olympic National Park, Hiking

A Day Excursion to Lake Crescent

June 8, 2015 1 comment in Uncategorized

In Port Ludlow we are extremely luck to have 26 miles of maintained trails to hike, explore, and make memories on. With trails in both the woodlands and waterfronts varying difficulties and lengths, there’s a trail for everyone.

Two of Port Ludlow’s most popular trails are Ludlow Falls – a 1/2 mile interpretive, looped trail to a waterfall, and Beach Loop Trail – located at the Inn and continuing onto the beach with views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

Many people visit Port Ludlow and the Olympic National Park with the intent to make a trip to Olympic National Park and Forest.

Olympic National Park is a jewel of the peninsula. The park is over 922,651 acres and homes the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the only temperate rainforests in the United States and one of the park’s most popular spots.

One of our favorite places to visit in the Olympic National Park is Lake Crescent. The 10,000 year-old, glacially created lake is a breathtaking place where old growth conifer and maple trees reign over manicured trail and the turquoise hue of the lake is intoxicating. Native American legend describes the lake as being created when an upset mountain spirit angered by the warring Klallam and Quileute tribes hurled a boulder at the warriors killing them all and damning the river, thus forming Lake Crescent.

The drive to Lake Crescent is just shy of 90 minutes from Port Ludlow making a hiking or boating excursion at the lake a great day trip. Rent kayaks at the lake or hike one of the many trails.

The most popular trail at Lake Crescent is the portion of Barnes Creek Trail that leads to Marymere Falls, an old growth forest leading to a 90 foot water fall. The 1 1/2 mile looped trail has two vantage points of the falls. The hike is enjoyable and visually stunning. I couldn’t stop myself from snapping pictures of the vast root systems and mossy trees that adorn the trail.

The trail begins at Storm King Ranger Station and continues onto a trail lined with moss and ferns. As you continue down the trail you will cross several brides and climb a couple sets of stairs leading to the picturesque Marymere Falls. People of all ages hike to Marymere Falls, but it is worth noting that if stairs and inclines aren’t for you, Moments in Time trail might be a better choice.

Lake Crescent is a seemingly magical place encompassed by trees with views of the lake as far as you can see. Whether you choose to boat, hike, or just enjoy the views you are guaranteed to enjoy your time in the Olympic National Forest.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

Totem Pole, Eagle, Puget Sound, Resort, Olympic Peninsula

The Totem Pole Restoration is Complete

June 5, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

This year the Totem Pole at Burner Point at The Resort at Port Ludlow is celebrating its 20th anniversary and a recent restoration has restored the totem pole to its original glory. The restoration was completed in large part to the community of Port Ludlow and the Totem Pole Fund.

The totem pole stands 40 feet high and overlooks Port Ludlow Bay. It was carved by artist David Boxley, a Tsimshian carver from Metlakatla, Alaska, in 1995. The lumber for the totem pole came from a 720-year-old, western red cedar which blew over just south of the Hoh Rain Forest.

Boxley completed the restoration that lasted from May 4th through May 8th. Wood for new wings and a paint job refreshed the 20 year old community icon. Pacific Western Timbers, who originally provided the wood used to carve the totem pole, donated the lumber to replace the old wings.

We would be remiss without giving a big thanks to our wonderful community and those involved with Totem Pole Fund which supported the project to completion – especially Dorothy Kimble, Barbara Adams, Bonnie Lambton, Sally Hirschman, and Claudia Avicola.

Curious about what the different figures on the totem pole represent? The six figures – the eagle, the bear, the two men with locked arms, the lumberman, the beaver, and the six interlocking figures, represent the history of Port Ludlow.

The top figure is an eagle which is reflective of the area before human habitation.

The bear, the second figure, portrays the ancestors of the local S’Klallam tribe.

The two men with locked arms, on the third figure, are Andrew Jackson Pope and Frederic Talbot who owned the sawmill in Port Ludlow that was in operation from 1852 to 1935.

The fourth figure, the lumberman, portrays the era of the Port Ludlow sawmill.

The beaver is representative of the building phase of Pope Resources, now Westharbor Homes.

The base of the totem pole has the six interlocking figures which represents the people and community of Port Ludlow.

To honor the restoration of the Totem Pole a potlatch celebration will be held on July 4th.

To attend the potlatch celebration please call the Fireside Restaurant at 360-437-7412 to make your reservation.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

Group Events at The Resort

June 3, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

Every year The Resort hosts a wide variety of corporate groups, social events, weddings, overnight retreats, team building activities, golf tournaments, and much more.

Our Sales Department works diligently to ensure that all groups enjoy their stay in Port Ludlow down to the last detail.

We were so pleased that two groups below took to their own blogs to write about their group event at The Resort.

Read more about their experiences by clicking the links below.

http://www.yarnharlot.ca/strung-along-retreats/– Retreat

http://thegsba.blogspot.com/2015/05/its-all-here.html– Corporate Group

Hard Cider, Tasting Room, Farm Tour, Foodie

Cider and Pizza Sundays at Finnriver Farm

May 27, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

It has been argued that beer and pizza make the perfect combination, but I would have to disagree. It is definitely cider and pizza, to be specific – Finnriver cider and Dented Buoy’s pizza.

One of our favorite weekend traditions has begun again for the season – woodfired pizza and cider Sundays at Finnriver Farm. From 12-6pm every Sunday people gather in the covered pavilion to enjoy live music and the tastes of woodfired pizza and craft hard cider. A fun day at the farm for children and adults alike.

The staff is inviting and knowledgeable. The cider tasting room is open daily where you can learn more and try the many varieties of cider Finnriver crafts, including Habanero, Black Currant and Pear, and Dented Bouy can adjust their pizzas for both gluten-free and vegan diets.

After you eat or while you wait for your pizza you can walk the farm appreciating both the beautiful gardens and animals. After I ordered my pizza, the green leaf topped with local veggies including spinach and garlic scapes and Mt. Townsend cheese, I strolled through the 33-acre, organic farm greeted by the farm dogs along the way. I enjoyed the sounds of chickens clucking and watching the pigs play in the mud. Produce fields were filled with heads of lettuce and I found myself looking forward to “u-pick” blueberryseason.

By the time I got back to the pavilion my pizza was ready. I paired it with the tart and refreshing Cranberry Rosehip cider and sat back and enjoyed the sights of the Chimacum Valley. Cider and pizza Sundays at Finnriver last till the beginning of October and I know I will be back many more Sundays before then.

The cider tasting room at the farm is open daily from 12-5pm and Finnriver cider and produce and Dented Buoy’s pizza is sold at the Port Townsend Farmers Market on Saturdays.

Finnriver farm is located at 142 Barn Swallow Road in Chimacum.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

It’s All Here

May 20, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

The great weather we’ve been having reminds us how lucky we are to stay and play in Port Ludlow.

The sun is shining on the water, flowers are in bloom, boating season has begun, golfers are in full swing, many of our favorite fruits and vegetables are back in season, and nature and wildlife are abundant.

Remember, it’s all here…

Opening Day at the Port Ludlow Marina

May 13, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

Did you make it for the Opening Day at the Port Ludlow Marina?

The atmosphere around the Marina was full of enthusiasm and excitement for the upcoming boating season. The boats were adorned with flags and the sun glistened on the water. Children, adults, and dogs alike were enjoying the great weather – you just can’t beat 73 degree weather in early May.

The ceremony kicked off as bagpipes played and the Port Ludlow Yacht Club members filed in around the Marina Pavilion. “Amazing Grace” played on the bagpipes and between the music and beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and the Marina, I know I wasn’t the only one with tears in my eyes.

Bagpipes at Opening Day at the Port Ludlow Marina from Resort at Port Ludlow on Vimeo.

The Port Ludlow Yacht Club recognized members who have crossed the bar and introduced new members and their boats. Each new yacht club member was gifted champagne to christen their boats. After the flags were raised, past and present Commodores and Yacht Club Officers were recognized, and the cannon was fired – it was time to go down to the docks.

Each new yacht club member and their boat were inducted with a champagne toast and champagne was poured on the boats to acknowledge their debut.

The Commodore anchored his boat in the middle of Port Ludlow Bay as boats left their slips and made their way around the Marina to the Commodore. From the Totem Pole at Burner Point to picnic tables at the Marina residents, guests, and fellow boaters enjoyed watching the parade of boats.

The Opening Day ceremony was filled with tradition and excitement for the upcoming boating season, we hope to see you out on the water soon.

Interested in mooring your boat the Marina or becoming a Port Ludlow Yacht Club member?

The Marina can accommodate boats up to 200′ with amenities including 30/50 amp shore power, ValTech Marine Fuel, and stationary and portable pump-out services.

The Port Ludlow Yacht Club currently has approximately 150 members who participate in cruise, race, and social functions yearly. In addition to joining the Port Ludlow boating community including social events and access to the Club’s “Wreck Room”, you also receive reciprocal moorage in over 100 yacht clubs in Washington, Oregon, California, and Canada.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

From Our Kitchen to Yours: French Onion Soup

May 12, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

Chef Dan’s French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

1/8 Cup Olive Oil
1/8 Lbs. Whole Butter
3 Lbs. Yellow Onion
1/2 Quart Veal Stock
1/2 Quart Chicken Stock
1 Satchel of Fresh Thyme or Bay Leaf
1 Tbs. Whole Black Pepper
1/2 Cup Cognac
Salt and Pepper to taste
Thick slices of French or Italian Bread
A standard package of Gruyere Cheese

How to Prepare:

Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees.
Begin caramelizing the onions in oil and butter on low heat until they appear to be a golden color. This should take approximately 45 minutes.
Then add the satchel of thyme or bay leaf along with whole peppercorns to your caramelized onions. Continue to simmer for up to a 1/2 hour.
Add cognac and stock and continue to simmer for another 1/2 hour.
If desired, salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your French Onion Soup in oven safe bowls.
Top each bowl with a slice of French or Italian bread and plenty of Gruyere cheese.
Broil in the oven for 5 minutes or until the top of the Gruyere cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Let us know how yours turns out in the comments below.

Pet Friendly, Award Winning, Resort, Lodging, Olympic Peninsula

Port Ludlow Resort named 2015 Fido’s Favorite Award Winner

May 5, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

In Port Ludlow we love our dogs.

We take great pleasure in seeing residents and guests walk the trails, beaches, and resort property with their canine companions. The Resort at Port Ludlow is honored to be a 2015 Fido’s Favorite Award winner.

The Fido’s Favorite Award recognizes hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts that achieve superior pet-friendliness ratings from BringFido’s 12 million annual reviewers. BringFido completed their annual review of pet-friendly hotels and the Resort at Port Ludlow received a “perfect” (5 out of 5 bones) rating!

At the Resort we treat our canine visitors as valued guests. At check-in, your dog’s name makes it on our VIP (Very Important Pets) board. Throughout your stay your dog will receive all-natural dog treats and be greeted by name.

Make sure to bring your dog the next time you visit Port Ludlow, your pet will enjoy the stay as much as you will.

To view the press release: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2015/05/prweb12732457.htm

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

Love to eat local?

April 22, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

Are you a foodie? Have you checked out the Inn’s FARM Dinner Package? The Farm Dinner package includes one night’s accommodations for two, self-guided tour of Chimacum Valley Farms, farm dollar credits to purchase fresh ingredients, and most importantly a multi-course meal prepared by Chef Dan with your chosen ingredients. The FARM package starts at $425 (price good from May 1^st, 2015 – October 30^th, 2015).

Interested in our Farm Dinner Package? Please enter “FARM” in the group code when booking online.

At the Resort at Port Ludlow, we value and honor the delicious produce and products that Jefferson County farms provide. Some of our favorite local farms are Red Dog Farm, Finnriver Farm and Cidery, and SpringRain Farm and Orchard.

Have you eaten at The Fireside? Then you have experienced some of the delicious produce and ingredients our region has to offer.

All three farms have produce stands at the Port Townsend Farmers Market (Saturdays from April to December), the Chimacum Farmers Market (Sundays from June to October), and Red Dog and SpringRain both have self-serve, honor-system farm stands located on their farms.

For a truly unique grocery shopping experience, make sure to check out the farm stands located at Red Dog and SpringRain. Their refrigerators are stocked with seasonal, organic vegetables, berries, cut flowers, plant starts, and herbs. Not sure what to do with all your veggies? Look no further than Red Dog’s recipespage on their website – it’s loaded with a wide variety of recipe ideas like Tomato Zucchini Skilletand Chickpeas with Spinach, Leeks, and Smoked Paprika.

And don’t forget the freezer!

At Red Dog, the freezer is stocked with local goodies including jams, grass-fed beef from Short’s Family Farm, goat cheese from Mystery Bay Farm, eggs from FinnRiver Farm, and tamales from Mama’s Harvest. At SpringRain don’t miss out on local honey, grass-fed lamb, rabbit, and pasture-raised eggs.

Make sure to stop by Finnriver during blueberry season. There is nothing better than spending a summer afternoon leisurely strolling the property while picking organic blueberries by the pound.

All three farms are located in Chimacum and it’s best to check their Facebook pages to find out about the current offerings:

Finnriver – 142 Barn Swallow Road, Chimacum, WA 98325
Red Dog – 406 Center Road, Chimacum, WA 98325
SpringRain– 187 Covington Way, Chimacum, WA 98325

Visiting these farms are experiences you won’t want to miss and memories you will cherish.

Watch the videos below to learn more about Finnriver, Red Dog, and SpringRain farms:

Finnriver – Farm to Table Dining Experience – The Resort at Port Ludlow from Resort at Port Ludlow on Vimeo.

Red Dog – Farm to Table Dining Experience – The Resort at Port Ludlow from Resort at Port Ludlow on Vimeo.

Spring Rain – Farm to Table Dining Experience – The Resort at Port Ludlow from Resort at Port Ludlow on Vimeo.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester

Sailboats, Water, Inn, Resort, Olympic Peninsula

T-37 Sailboat Races in the Port Ludlow Marina Ponds

April 13, 2015 no comments in Uncategorized

Curious about the model sailboat races in Port Ludlow Marina Ponds?

They’re T-37 sailboats races put on by the Port Townsend Yacht Club. Racing these radio controlled boats is a fast growing activity on the Olympic Peninsula. The Port Townsend Yacht Club has grown their fleet to over 40 boats in the past three years! T-37 racing is worldwide but has a large concentration in Western Washington.

T-37 racing is inexpensive and great for both experienced racers and people who have never sailed before. Racers come from all over Jefferson and Kitsap counties and Seattle to participate in the T-37 races at the Resort.

Check out this neat video of a T-37 race at the Resort: https://vimeo.com/80170492

Interested in watching T-37 racing? Check out the club’s 2015 racing schedule to see when the races will be at the Resort.

Curious as to how the Club is performing? Below is the club’s latest scores from Race 4 of the Spring Series.

Written by: Kaitlin Chester