Six Senses Zighy Bay - Review

Our Verdict

Six Senses Zighy Bay - Review

Escape to the hidden jewel of Oman, Six Senses Zighy Bay. This resort is nestled in Oman's dramatic Musandam Peninsula where rugged mountain peaks dive into crystal clear waters. This village-inspired resort in Oman offers luxurious accommodations in a range of villas, suites and beachfront retreats. Each accommodation offers a private pool, traditional summer house and plenty of space to spread out and relax. This luxury oasis offers something for everyone including unique dining with both local and international cuisine featuring locally grown organic ingredients, an amazing spa and more than 30 unique experiences.

At Six Senses Zighy Bay you will be free from the distractions of life. Six Senses properties are all about reinvigorating your senses and that's just what a stay at Zighy Bay will do for you. Take time to disconnect so you can reconnect with yourself and with others.

Zighy Bay is located 120 kilometres or 120 minutes drive from Dubai International Airport, which is the gateway city to Six Senses Zighy Bay. Guests have a choice of arrival experiences which include a scenic fifteen-minute speed boat trip or a drive down from the top of the hill overlooking the bay. For an additional charge, guests can choose to be a companion passenger with the Six Senses professional para-glider!

In total, the 82 suites, villas and beachfront retreats at Six Senses Zighy Bay are traditional Omani style with modern amenities. With pops of color, the cool interiors lead out to private pool areas with cobblestone walls, sun loungers and shaded summer houses.

Whether you stay in a one-bedroom accommodation, a multiple bedroom accommodation or an extraordinary villa, they all offer a spacious and personal environment with rustic chic décor, and bathrooms extending to an outdoor shower.

Marhaba means “welcome” in Arabic. And a warm marhaba greets you at Six Senses Zighy Bay which is set between the Hajar Mountains and the sea. If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, you've come to the right place.

This review is based on our personal stay in March of 2022. If you are planning to stay at Six Senses Zighy Bay, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), full daily breakfast for two guests per bedroom, a complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two guests per room (once during stay), early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Our Room

Talk about VIP treatment, during our stay at Zighy Bay we got to stay in the Private Reserve. Located at the secluded end of Zighy Bay, tucked up against the mountain, on its own stretch of private beach, The Private Reserve has been carefully designed to reflect the traditional local Omani architecture.

The exclusive entrance leads to an open court which overlooks the three buildings that make this a true Arabian Palace of Wonders. With its four bedrooms, the Private Reserve - the largest of its type in the Middle East – offers a variety of separate living and dining room areas for entertaining, a wine cellar, staff quarters, a 60 feet (17 meters) infinity swimming pool and a 24x7 GEM (Guest Experience Maker).

The master bedroom on the second floor was our home during our stay. It featured a large living room with balcony, the separate bedroom, large closet/changing room, full bathroom with copper bathtub, and an outdoor shower.

All of the accommodations at Six Senses Zighy Bay include the following amenities: individually controlled air-conditioning and ceiling fans, working and dressing table, private wine cellar, personal safe, hairdryer and espresso machine, IDD telephone, wireless internet and cordless phone, tea and coffee making facilities, CD, DVD Home Integrated Theatre System, flat panel TV with satellite TV channels, oversized bathtubs, large daybeds, private sun lounge and outdoor dining suite, infinity-edged pools, and more.

Most of the bath products you find at Six Senses are created with natural and sustainable ingredients. In fact, the bar soap is created on property at The Earth Lab.

Amenities

Perhaps one of the best amenities at Six Senses Zighy Bay is the 1 mile of pristine white sandy beach that the resort sits on. And if the beach isn't for you, there is a large fresh water swimming pool with poolside service, offering meals, beverages and homemade ice creams. Or perhaps you'd prefer to take a dip in the 100-foot salt water pool, the only one in the Gulf with Roman steps and a swim-round island.

Is wellness important to you? The resort features a well-equipped fitness center, outdoor jungle gym and outdoor yoga pavillion. And if you're interested, there are wellness programs to improve your movement, stamina and tone.

And it wouldn't be a true Six Senses experience without the Six Senses Spa. The spa features 9 treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, two Arabian hammams (bathhouse), steam room, sauna and ice cave within male and female changing rooms, and an Alchemy Bar. One really cool thing about Six Senses Spas is that they have the latest technology combined with local traditional healing techniques.

Whether you want a simple treatment like a massage, facial, or a more personalize and comprehensive program such as one focused on wellness, sleep, detox or immunity booster, this is the place to connect with yourself.

During our stay we had a 60 minute massage and it was one of the top five massages we've ever had. The therapist tailored the massage from start to finish to exactly what each of us needed. During the treatment, silicone cups, hot stones and warm compresses are used, depending on the individual’s needs.

Another great amenity of Six Senses Zighy Bay is their activities center that is located adjacent to the lobby. The setting of Zighy Bay is ripe for adventure and thrill seekers. Activities include: paragliding, microlight, village trek, a visit to a local farm in the neighboring town of Dibba, handline fishing, a sunset cruise, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, archery and more.

During our stay we were very adventurous and went paragliding. One minute you’re on the launch pad (next to Sense on the Edge Restaurant) at 960 feet above sea level. And the next minute you’re soaring through the sky before gently descending to the soft sandy Zighy beach below. The flight time is dependent on current conditions but lasts on average about 5 minutes.

The pilot made sure we were comfortable during our flight and even helped us take some great photos!

We also went out on a traditional Dhahab Dhow (Oman boat) for a day trip. The trip included swimming, drinks, lunch and beautiful scenic views.

Dining

The culinary program at Six Senses Zighy Bay celebrates unique, fresh and local ingredients. Some of the ingredients are grown on property at the organic garden and a majority of the rest come from a farm in the neighboring city of Dibba.

Six Senses Zighy Bay has six food and beverage outlets on property. Summer House serving contemporary international cuisine (open for lunch, bites, drinks and dinner), Spice Market serving delicacies of Arabic origins (open for breakfast and dinner), Sense on the Edge serving Spanish inspired cuisine (open for dinner), Zighy Bar serving drinks and bites (open from (9:30 pm to Midnight), Shua Shack serving traditional lamb cooked in the sand (open for lunch & dinner), and the Wine Cellar serving pairing menus (open for private dinners).

For breakfast one morning, we had a private in-villa breakfast which was incredible. It was like the breakfast buffet at Spice Market that was brought to our villa. There was fresh fruit, charcuterie, a variety of pastries, breakfast meats, quiche, fresh made yogurts, a juice bar, a coffee bar and more.

Both the food and the service at the in-villa breakfast were incredible. If you wanted things that weren't on the buffet such as eggs made to order or anything special, the staff was very accommodating.

For lunch we dined at Shua Shack which offers an incredible view while your feet rest in the sand. The service during lunch at Shua Shack was superb. We didn't feel rushed and we were well attended to.

Our favorite meal we had at Zighy Bay was the Asian Street Food night. This was setup near Summer House and included a variety of stations where chefs were preparing dishes made to order. There was sushi, Pad Thai, fried rice, duck soup, a kabob station, a dessert bar and more.

Breakfast at Spice Market is a must! This breakfast buffet has a little bit of everything. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something here. You'll find traditional Arabic dishes, the most delicious fresh baked Zaatar croissants, fresh fruit, fresh juices, freshly made yogurts including plant based yogurt, an egg station, and more.

Service

Sustainability is a the heart of what Six Senses does. This is no different at Zighy Bay. Zighy Bay is big on reducing waste by grinding up glass and repurposing it, creating their own soap in the Earth Lab, and eliminating plastics. Six Senses Zighy Bay actually employs a full time sustainability officer to continue to make the resort more and more sustainable and self sufficient.

Six Senses Zighy Bay actually pulls water from the ocean, puts it through a filtration process and creates their own fresh drinking water. This infrastructure not only supports the resort, but also treats water for the neighboring village adjacent to the resort. At Six Senses you'll improve your own health and the health of the planet.

Service at Six Senses is personal, connected and catered to each individual guest. Service that is emotional and truly helps you reawaken your senses is just what you'll get.

All of the staff including our GEM (Guest Experience Maker) really treated us like family and made an effort to get to know us.

Overall Impression

From the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, you will experience your senses. You'll leave stimulated, energized and resorted. The

Six Senses brand strives to embody a passion for wellness, community, sustainable design and smiles. And after staying at our first Six Senses, we can't wait to visit another property.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Six Senses Zighy Bay with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a room upgrade (if available at check-in), full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom, in restaurant or via In-Room Dining, complimentary 50-minute massage per person, for up to two guests per room (once during stay), early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection, Riviera Maya - Review

Our Verdict

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection, Riviera Maya - Review

Located in Riviera Maya, Mexico, Etéreo is an ocean front retreat. The resort floats over a protected mangrove forest and faces the beautiful white sand beaches of the Caribbean. Etéreo — meaning ethereal, something spiritual and heavenly — invites you to visit and explore the cycle of renewal of that which enriches life: relationships, inspiration, connection to nature, senses, rhythm, and appreciation.

At Etéreo, you’re freed from the distractions of modern life and supported by three pillars - extraordinary cuisine, breathtaking encounters with nature and an Auberge Spa so you can relax and recharge. And if you know anything about Auberge properties, they are all about creating one-of-a-kind experiences.

Discover Mexico through its culture, makers, history, sights and sounds. All of the activities at Etéreo are designed to enliven your senses through discovery and renewal. The curated list of activities range from golfing in Riviera Maya, having the sauna to yourself with a healing ritual, exploring cenotes of Mexico, snorkeling the Great Mayan Reef, setting the days intentions during a coffee or tea ritual, indulging in the history of cacao, capturing the sunset on canvas, calm the mind with chromatic breathing and more.

Like we mentioned Auberge is all about creating one-of-a-kind experiences and there is truly an activity for everyone.

Each of the 75 accommodations (57 studios, 14 suites and 4 penthouses) at Etéreo has dramatic mangrove and ocean views, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows connecting you to the surrounding nature. Whether you stay in a Studio or Suite, the accommodations at Etéreo are unforgettable. Studio-style rooms feature a private terrace, plunge pool, ocean views and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open up to let in the breeze of the Caribbean Sea. The expansive suites feature space to spread out, relax and spend time on your private rooftop deck or private hot tub.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, boutique and personalized experience in Riviera Maya, then Etéreo should be at the top of your list of places to visit. During your stay at Etéreo you’ll feel relaxed, recharged and connected with yourself and with nature.

This review is based on our personal stay in January of 2022. If you are planning to stay at Etéreo, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), $100 resort credit, daily $70 USD breakfast credit and a welcome amenity.

Our Room

Both the architecture and interiors of the accommodations blend contemporary and modern design with local and natural materials. Each accommodation celebrates local artisans with unique furnishings, textiles and carved wooden walls by revered artist Manuel Felguérez.

During our stay we stayed in a Mangrove Studio with Plunge Pool. Even though, this is the entry level room category it packs a wow factor. Our studio was 875 square feet of indoor/outdoor open living space. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer incredible views of the lush mangroves and out to the Caribbean Sea.

The outdoor terrace featured a small lawn, private in-ground plunge pool and seating area. While the pool is your own pool, it isn’t completely private. There are floating walkways suspended above the lush mangroves that take you to the beach, to Itzam (restaurant), and to the pool that are just steps away.

The Mangrove Studios with King Bed can be connected to a Mangrove Studio with 2 Queen beds. The open concept studios feature a beautiful wrapped leather bed, a hand-carved wooden accent wall by artist Manuel Felguérez.

All of the accommodations at Etéreo feature a complimentary offering of snacks and beverages that are replenished daily, down duvets, robes and slippers, a yoga mat, a steamer, insect repelent, bug bite ointment and more.

Our Mangrove Studio featured a large open concept bathroom with dual vanity, large soaking tub, water closet and separate shower.

Etéreo features their own toiletries that are local to Mexico.

Amenities

Etéreo is arranged in three islands. The first island is the front drive where you arrive, front desk, SANA an Auberge Spa and meeting space. The second island is the guest rooms, and boutique. And the third island is the restaurants pool and beach. There certainly isn’t a lack of things to do at Etéreo, The activities will inspire you expand your horizon and challenge the realm of your familiarity.

There are two pools at Etéreo, the upper pool closest to the guest rooms is a family pool and the lower pool and Jacuzzi is the adults pool.

And if the pool isn’t for you there is a gorgeous beach with cabanas that are first come, first serve. A couple of shaded lounge areas to rest and relax and a beachside restaurant and bar.

Sana, an Auberge Spa delivers an unparalleled healing space inspired by its surroundings. Sana features seperate men’s and women’s locker rooms and facilities that include a cenote, steam, sauna, sound, and clay rooms and outdoor spa pool and jacuzzi.

Indulge yourself on a guided journey of the spa facilities whether you’re having a treatment or not. The spa facilities are available for use by all guests, they just require an appointment.

During our stay we participated in a guided journey starting with 10 minutes in the steam room. The spa attendant placed eucalyptus salt into the steam source and in 10 minutes returned to guide us to the next step. The next step on our journey was 10 minutes in the sauna where the attendant placed cucumber slices over our eyes and a chilled towel over our face. The second to last step was participating in a sound healing ritual which was quite nice. With our eyes closed the sounds brought southing thoughts that made the stresses of everyday life disappear. And we finished our journey with a soak in the cenote.

The whole experience of staying at an Auberge Resorts Collection property is all about the journey and Sana is no different. All of the treatments at Sana offer innovative Mayan healing practices, therapies for energy dispersion, and modern self-care.

If you want to focus on your wellness, Etéreo has a beautiful state-of-the-art fitness center, Movement and Studio (great place to stretch, do yoga, etc.) The fitness center is equipped with Techno-Gym equipment and featured 2 stationary bikes, 5 treadmills, 2 ellipticals, a stair master, a couple of squat racks, a cable machine and free weights.

Dining

The culinary program at Etéreo celebrates renewal throughout the journey. With menus built to connect, native ingredients are utilized to pique interest in the flavors of Mexico for both locals and visitors alike.

Etéreo has 5 food and beverage outlets on property. Itzam is their main restaurant open for breakfast and dinner. El Carrito (a cart) offers complimentary coffee in the morning along with a selection of pastries and in the evening offers evening cocktails.

Itzam is the main restaurant which serves breakfast and dinner. Itzam’s menu is conscientiously focused on local products that are both sustainable and organic.

The service during both breakfast and dinner at Itzam was very quick, through and efficient. We never felt rushed, but we did feel well attended to.

Itzam has a great view of the beach and the ocean making for the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal.

For breakfast we tried the chilaquiles one morning which were excellent. And another morning we tried their gourmet oatmeal.

Dinner at Itzam….

Alberca which is the poolside menu offers light bights and fresh cocktails using the freshest ingredients. At the pool we enjoyed tacos and the blue fin tuna bowl. The portions were enough to fill you up, but light enough to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the pool.

Che Che is the other restaurant at Etéreo. Currently it’s only open for the pool menu which we enjoyed for dinner one night as an early dinner.

If you're looking for the best catch of the day prepared in many ways, check out El Changarro. El Changarro offers in-the-sand dining for lunch. The menu focuses on the daily local catch served in myriad ways – as ceviche, tacos or simply grilled and accompanied by market vegetables. Guacamole, daily tortas, Mexican session beers and fresh juices make for complementary additions.

Service

Etéreo is our casa away from home. From the moment we met the first staff member at the Cancun airport, everyone we encountered during our stay made an effort to make sure we were well taken care of. I mean the staff even brought us towels to the hot tub so we didn't have to get out all dripping wet.

Every wish is your command at Etéreo.

Overall Impression

Discover your own journey at Etéreo. This oceanfront retreat offers extraordinary cuisine, breathtaking encounters with nature and rejuvenation at the spa.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Etéreo Resort with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade (if available at check-in and a welcome amenity.

Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection Review

Our Verdict

Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection Review

Located in the Meadows of Dan, Virginia, Primland is a back-to-nature escape. The resort sits on a private 12,000 acre estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains that offers luxurious accommodations, one-of-a-kind wilderness experiences, farm-to-table culinary offerings, world class golf and more.

At Primland, activities are endless, offering an experience of nature at its finest no matter the season. Wander the banks of streams alive with trout, experience the rush of mountain biking and gaze at primeval views and star-filled skies. From horseback riding to paddle boarding, take to the great outdoors and experience all Primland has to offer with activities that are both engaging and educational for everyone.

Consummately private, elegantly appointed, and all with exceptional views, Primland’s varied accommodations from lofty suites and treehouses to mountain homes reflect the 12,000-acre estate’s abundance of space.

Are you looking to reconnect with nature, disconnect from the world and soak in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Auberge Resort Collection is all about enjoying fulfilling, luscious shared experiences that connect you to the local culture, its welcoming people, and the beauty of the land, all while doing good and making memories and dreams that will be forever embedded in your soul. And that is exactly how we felt while staying at Primland.

This review is based on our personal stay in September of 2021. If you are planning to stay at Primland, book through Live Luxe Travel Co. to take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits like a room upgrade (if available at check-in), $100 resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity.

Our Room

On to the elegantly appointed accommodations. During our stay we stayed in one of the Pinnacle Cottages. Named after the famous Pinnacles of Dan, four gracious, chalet-like cottages each offer accommodation for up to 12 people with birds-eye views of the valley below. Don't let the word ‘cottage’ mislead you, however. While charming, these generously-proportioned, two-story abodes are stylish eyries with serene interiors and space to spare.

The Pinnacle Cottages can be configured to be multiple bedrooms. We stayed in a Cedar Bluff Room. The Cedar Bluff Rooms are situated within each of the four Pinnacle Cottages. With a king-size bed and elegant furnishings, the bedrooms are complemented by spacious bathrooms with similar awe-inspiring views.

It’s worth noting that all of the accommodations at Primland feature a complimentary offering of snacks and beverages that are replenished daily, down duvets, plush Frette robes and slippers, and custom-designed Frette sheets satisfy the senses on every level.

Our Cedar Bluff Room featured a spacious bathroom with a dual vanity, large soaking tub with a sweeping view of the valley below, a large walk-in shower, and separate water closet.

Primland features BVLGARI bath products. And besides Le Labo, these are some of our favorite hotel toiletries.

Amenities

A stay at Primland isn’t your typical escape as nature is a huge focus of the experience. There isn’t a lack for things to do since there is a golf course, hiking trails, mountain biking, horse back riding, all-terrain driving, hunting activities, fishing, a spa, and more.

The indoor pool is located in Auberge Spa and is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. We enjoyed the pool and spa facilities on a rainy day which was a great way to spend a day indoors.

Embark on a spa journey designed for you. Taking a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, the Spa combines Native American healing rituals with cutting edge modern spa techniques, organic products and essential oils to provide the most revitalizing and beneficial experience possible.

As you can imagine, spa treatments look quite different these days due to COVID. Auberge Spa at Primland takes COVID health and safety precautions very seriously and offered hand sanitizer, wore facial coverings and helped to keep spa guests socially distanced in the waiting area.

We enjoyed massages during our stay which were fantastic. Each of our therapists started our treatment by asking us to draw a card from a pile. One of our cards had a buffalo on it. After the massage was over the therapist dropped us off in the waiting room and flipped open a book to the buffalo which talked about what your body was needing, feeling etc. (much like a horoscope).

Rejuvinate and recharge in the mountain air. With views to keep you going, the spacious fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment. The indoor heated swimming pool is chlorine-free and ideal for swimming laps or cooling off after a workout. Within the spa locker rooms, you'll find a sauna and steam room to round out the hydrotherapy facilities. There is also a soft-surface tennis court, two open-air yoga/meditation decks and Bootleggers Outdoor Gym and Fitness Trail.

The fitness center has plenty of equipment to get a workout in, including a Peloton bike. But, to be honest the best workout you can get while at Primland is to go hike and explore the great outdoors.

Dining

if your looking for farm-to-table culinary options, look no further than Primland. Primland has three food and beverage outlets on property; Elements, 19th Pub and Stables Saloon.

Elements is the main restaurant, which is located in the lodge and is where breakfast and dinner is served. This is where Virtuoso breakfast is served.

Before we get to the meals we had, the service at Elements for both breakfast and dinner was excellent. The waitstaff was extremely attentive and service was quick but not rushed.

Part of dining at Elements is the ambience. The restaurant has large windows that look out onto the rolling hills of Primland and the fireplace in the middle of the room keeps you cozy.

For dinner we had an incredible meal including local trout and steak. Most of the vegetables and herbs used are grown on property in the garden you will pass on the drive up to the lodge.

While we didn’t eat at at 19th Pub, it’s located in the lodge and is open from 11 am to 11 pm. 19th pub is the perfect place to grab a more casual meal after a day exploring Primland or after a round of golf.

Now onto what was perhaps our favorite meal we had while at Primland. Stables Saloon, the former horse stable at Primland, is now one of the signature restaurants and experiences. Stables Saloon is where you go if you want a low key dinner with live music. Stables Saloon serves southern comfort food such as fried chicken, smoked meats, macaroni and cheese and more.

The meal at Stables Saloon is served family style and they bring a selection of meats and sides to the table and you can ask for more if you like something.

Stables is such a unique experience at a luxury resort. We love getting dressed up to go to a nice dinner, but this was a nice change of pace. We’d highly recommend you dine one night at Stables Saloon.

Service

The service at Primland gives you the sense that you’re not staying at a resort, but yet someone’s home. The bell staff, front desk agents, house keepers, servers and everyone else we encountered made an effort to get to know us and was super friendly.

Overall Impression

At Primland Resort every moment is one to savor. The sense of place and being you get while on the Primland estate is truly unique. What other resort can you visit that sits on 12,000 acres and has it’s own observatory!?

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book Primland Resort with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade (if available at check-in and a welcome amenity.

The Lodge at Blue Sky - An Auberge Resort Review

Our Verdict

The Lodge at Blue Sky Review

The Lodge at Blue Sky is your mountain luxury home away from home. Located just 35 minutes from the Salt Lake City (SLC) airport, the location is easy to get to but a world away from everything else. The 3,500 acre retreat in the Wasatch Mountains is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with nature.

The Lodge at Blue Sky, an Auberge Resort is rather boutique and intimate with 46 total guest rooms. The accommodations are split into three categories: Sky Rooms & Suites, Earth Suites and Creek Houses. There are 19 Sky Suites that are 1 and 2 bedroom suites located in the lodge. There are 16 Earth Suites and 6 Deluxe Earth Suites; these are freestanding villas near the lodge, but not attached. And there are 5 Creek Houses about a 5-minute walk from the lodge and are located along Alexander Creek.

Earth Suites

Creek Houses

The Lodge at Blue Sky is the ultimate private nature retreat featuring signature restaurant Yuta, Bar + Lounge, fitness center, iconic infinity pool, Edge Spa, and plenty of outdoor activities.

This review is based off of our personal stay in August of 2020. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the The Lodge at Blue Sky, book through Virtuoso to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a room upgrade (subject to availability at check-in), $100 USD resort credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. To request Virtuoso rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/virtuoso.

From the moment you step foot into Sky Lodge, you will feel like you are right at home. The design and architecture of this property is very modern, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t feel warm and welcoming.

The lobby of Sky Lodge features large picturesque windows, dramatic tall ceilings and plenty of areas to lounge.

Our Room

During our stay at The Lodge at Blue Sky, we stayed in a Sky Room located in the Sky Lodge. No matter the accommodation at the Lodge at Blue Sky, they are all unforgettable.

From the moment you open the door to your room, you will be surrounded by luxury. The Sky Rooms are quite spacious at over 570 sq feet with a 115 sq ft outdoor patio. The Sky Lodge rooms feature a king bed or two twins, an open-concept layout, living area with sofa and chaise, private terrace and ensuite bathroom. And these rooms have sunrise or sunset views.

Our Sky Lodge room, 14, had a sunset and canyon view, which wasn’t bad to look at. With the way this property was built, there isn’t a room without an incredible view.

At The Lodge at Blue Sky, it’s the little details that really make all of the difference. How long has it been since you stayed at a 5-star hotel that gave you a real key to the room instead of a key card?

The bathroom was very spa inspired. It featured a large counter with dual vanities, an oversized soaking tub, a large walk in shower and a separate water closet. The bathroom featured tile that was carried throughout all of the walls and around the tub. The water closet had a high-tech toilet that flushed with the waive of your hand above the tank.

The toiletries at The Lodge at Blue Sky were a hand crafted Mountain Blend featuring fir, sage and other natural ingredients.

The rooms also feature a Nespresso machine (which has become one of our favorite in-room amenities), a complimentary snack basket and mini fridge that which are replenished daily.

Amenities

The Lodge at Blue Sky has plenty of amenities for a small boutique property. The Sky Lodge features a fitness center and movement studio on the second floor.

The fitness center had 4 treadmills, 2 ellipticals, 2 Peloton bikes (another thing we now look for at hotels and resorts), a few cable machines, plenty of free weights and the Mirror. There is plenty of equipment to get a good sweat session in, but you won’t want to make it a quick workout with the incredible views.

There are two pools at the resort. The main pool which is located just off the outdoor dining patio of Yuta and the second pool is at Edge Spa.

The main pool features an infinity edge with breathtaking views of the canyon and Alexander peak. The main pool is great because there is food and beverage service and plenty of chairs.

If you’re looking for a more private and quiet pool experience to read a book or lay out and get some sun, then head to the Edge Spa pool.

While we didn’t have any treatments done at Edge Spa, we did tour the facilities and the treatment rooms were very nice offering views of Alexander Creek.

Dining

Whether you are a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, you will definitely find it at Blue Sky.

Helmed by James Beard Award-Winning Executive Chef, Galen Zamarra, dining at Blue Sky is inspired by—and revolves around—the incredible ingredients found throughout our lush mountain landscape.

Yuta's menu draws inspiration from a deep reverence for the land and the many cultures that have passed through this lush mountain region. Yuta, meaning mountain top in Ute, delivers a regional cuisine based on the cultures that historically inhabited the area.

During the first night of our stay, we dined at Yuta. And we had one of the best dining experiences that we have had in some time. The service was incredible, the food was incredible and the ambiance of Yuta makes for the perfect meal.

If you like spirits, start with the Indian Paintbrush cocktail. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing. For our actual meal we tried the Blue Sky burger and the crispy trout filet with cilantro lime rice. Both were solid options.

If you aren’t a morning person, the breakfast at Yuta will make you want to get out of bed in the morning. For breakfast we started with the pastries, coffee and then each ordered an entree. Everything we had was delicious.

Breakfast is on the lighter side, so if you are a big eater, you might want to start with the pastries or order some sides to go with your breakfast.

Service

As we drove up to the front drive at The Lodge at Blue Sky, we were greeted at a distance with a wave. We were then greeted by name when the car doors were opened.

The staff really made an effort to get to know us during the check-in process and during a tour of the property. We had the best waiter when dining at Yuta on our first night. He was really friendly, wanted to get to know us and made sure our dining experience was tailored to us. We never once felt rushed or like it was taking too long to eat dinner.

Even if The Lodge at Blue Sky is more of a relaxed atmosphere, the service is still top notch and what you would expect when staying at a 5-star property.

How are they handling COVID?

If you’re like us, when traveling to another state you are always curious what the regulations are going to be and how strictly they in-force social distancing guidelines.

The Lodge at Blue Sky is adhering to all state and local government regulations and following the Auberge Health and Services practices. All employees were wearing masks, there were hand sanitizer stations located in the lobby, in the fitness center, at the pool and in the hallways that lead to Sky Rooms & Suites.

There were plexiglass partitions up at the front desk to protect guests and staff during the check-in process.

Facial coverings are required in any public space on property unless you are eating, drinking or working out.

Overall Impression

We can’t wait to plan a return visit to The Lodge at Blue Sky. A luxury mountain getaway is the perfect way to relax and explore nature. Especially with COVID, it’s nice to visit a boutique property that limits your exposure to others and offers plenty of place to socially distance.

Our entire stay was incredible. The hospitality was outstanding, we felt safe, and most importantly we enjoyed our stay as we were able to do as much or as little each day as we wanted.

And we almost forgot to mention that The Lodge at Blue Sky is pet friendly. And it’s a great place if you bring your four-legged friend to get out in nature.

Needless to say, The Lodge at Blue Sky will likely will become a yearly destination for the three of us.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book The Lodge at Blue Sky with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Virtuoso partnership, you’ll receive a $100 resort credit to use on dining or at Edge Spa, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade and a welcome amenity.

Park Hyatt Washington D.C. Review

Our Verdict

The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. offers luxurious accommodations, excellent service and fantastic amenities. This review is based off of our personal stay in July of 2019. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at the Park Hyatt Washington D.C., book through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of exclusive complimentary extras like a confirmed room upgrade, $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast and a welcome amenity. To request Hyatt Privé rates, just visit liveluxetravelco.com/hyatt-prive.

Park Hyatt Washington D.C.

The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. is located at 1201 24th Street NW in the West End of Washington D.C. The hotel is a five minute walk from historic Georgetown and Embassy Row. And the the hotel’s design uniquely blends American craftsmanship and contemporary style.

The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. is about an 8-9 minute walk from the Foggy Bottom Metro Station by George Washington University, which is convenient for making your way across the District. It takes about 20 minutes on the Metro Blue Line to reach DCA Airport from the Foggy Bottom Metro Station.

The main tourist attractions in Washington D.C. such as the Lincoln Memorial Vietnam Veterans Memorial, White House and Smithsonian Museums are about a 30-40 minute walk from the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. or 15-20 minute drive/ride. The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. does offer complimentary car service to the White House and CityCenterDC area.

Our Room

We booked a standard king room through Hyatt Privé to take advantage of the $100 credit and confirmed room upgrade. At the time of booking, we were upgraded to a Junior Suite and upon arrival, we were further upgraded to the Georgetown Suite.

The Georgetown Suite, which was over 1,000 square feet, was just gorgeous. The suite featured a separate living and dining room, spacious and comfortable bedroom, office area, and a spa-inspired limestone bathroom. There is also a half-bath off the living room area.

The office area in between the bedroom and living room was a nice spot to get some work done during the day.

The spa like bathroom was extremely spacious with a walk-in shower and separate soaking tub.

And as we've come to love with the Park Hyatt brand, bath products are Le Labo. The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. offers the Bergamote 22 scent, which we love.

Our room had a gorgeous welcome amenity waiting on us (part of booking through Hyatt Privé).

Amenities

The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. does have an indoor saltwater swimming pool and hot tub. I will say, it's an interesting hike across the hotel to find the pool area. But the pool area does have plenty of natural light with a glass atrium above the pool area.

Dining

Honestly, the best part about the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. is their restaurant, the Blue Duck Tavern. The restaurant is so popular, we have clients reach out to us to book them at the hotel specifically for the sole reason of eating at the restaurant. And you won’t just find hotel guests at the Blue Duck Tavern, it’s a popular place among locals. In fact, the Obama’s celebrated their anniversary dinner at the restaurant in 2009. And of course, you can use your $100 Hyatt Privé credit at the Blue Duck Tavern.

We ordered room service breakfast one day and took breakfast the second day at the Blue Duck Tavern. The food was delicious.

And we met friends at the Blue Duck Tavern for lunch one day. And of course, as expected, the food and service were excellent.

Service

To give you a bit of context, we started our trip in D.C. at the Fairmont Georgetown. The Fairmont literally sits right across the street from the Park Hyatt. And while we typically enjoy the Fairmont brand, the service at the Fairmont Georgetown was just awful.

That was not the case at the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. The service at the Park Hyatt was excellent, as it should be. But honestly service was about as good as it gets. From the front desk, to the restaurant staff and room service, we were generally quite impressed by the level of service we received. And everyone we met was extremely polite and friendly.

Overall Impression

While the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. might not be the closest hotel to the tourist sites in the Nation’s Capital, it is still conveniently located. And we enjoyed escaping the tourists and spending time in the West End and in Georgetown. The Park Hyatt Washington D.C. offers luxurious accommodations, excellent food and great amenities.

Extra Perks

And don’t forget, when you book the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. with Live Luxe Travel Co., through our Hyatt Privé partnership, you’ll receive a $100 hotel credit to use on dining or at the spa, daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade (if available, confirmed within 24 hours of booking) and a welcome amenity.