A FerryTale Visit to Anacortes

My Apron Traveled to many beautiful places this summer but the one I was most excited about was the quaint, picturesque town of Anacortes, Washington.
Not only is it charming- it is where I got to grow up  and be from.
Yes  It is my hometown
Being back home for my 40th class reunion gave me the opportunity to not only get reacquainted with classmates but with the charm of this intimate harbor town.

Most people drive through this beautiful gem of a city on their way to or from the ferry.
Taking a turn at the light and heading to the ferry terminal...Missing the heart of the town.
But those who take the time to stop, explore and discover the beauty of Fildago Island and especially the historic town of Anacortes, The Gateway to the San Juan Islands get to take in a little slice of Heaven on Earth.

Whether you arrived by ferry

or perhaps the breathtaking Deception Pass Bridge

Photo Courtesy Derek Farmer

You are in for a visual feast at every turn.
I may be biased but with each corner of the town, 
the view is stunning, organic and unforgettable.
From the harbor to the loop road and to the beach for 
amazing sunsets, every inch of this island is a postcard.

Photo Courtesy Marcia Springer

Anacortes is a destination for adventures, shoppers, and foodies. 
There are alot of places to stay but few as great as the ones I found.
As a professional Innsitter (interim Innkeeper) I choose to stay in small, local inns or Band B's when I travel.
I was able to find two amazing lodging opportunities that fit in
with my search for Hip and Fresh Bed and Breakfasts. 
A must stay in Anacortes , The Gateway Bed and Breakfast
What a find, I was lucky to get the last available room on a Saturday night and I was not disappointed.
Sitting high on the bluff on Cap Sante, this new victorian style B and B was perfect in every way.
From the location close to down town, to the wraparound
porch perfect to sip coffee or wine and watch the sunset of the Guemes Channel, this B and B is enchanting.
As winter comes, the inside is enhanced by the outside elements peeking through the large windows of a warm and cozy sitting area.

The Gateway Bed and Breakfast has 4 rooms currently available and each one is appointed to fit the elements of Anacortes- 
Coastal, calm and comfortable.
On the cleanliness chart, it was off the chart.
I had a quiet room in the back with a private sitting area, spa like amenities in the oversized bathroom and best of all .. Coffee in each room. 

What I love about B and B's these days is that around the breakfast table are people of all walks and ages of life. The morning was shared with newlyweds,an adventurous couple and 2 solo women. Me being one

Mike and Nancy know how to be available, gracious and inviting hosts.
Believe me, it feels so comfortable while you are a guest
you feel like you are home.
Not to be missed is the breakfast part of this B and B
Mike was serving fritta and crisp bacon which was as delicious as 
the granola and fresh berries. The bowls of  fresh cracked dungeness crab was the creme de la creme.. Loved the breakfasts
The Gateway Bed and Breakfast is at the top of my list for 
HIP and FRESH places to stay while in Anacortes.

Photo Courtesy Carl Nickerson

So as many seafarers have been beaconed home to Anacortes,
you find your adventurous spirit drawing you to the tip of the Pacific Northwest, to the gateway to the San Juan Islands, for a ferry to Victoria, Guemes Island or beyond BUT
Before you take off to the rest of the beautiful San Juan Islands- 
Make this Ferryland your destination.. It is a true Sparkling Gem


Part 2  TBA The Majestic Inn and Spa