Knik River Lodge increased its number of cabins and added a new restaurant.
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Over the last year, I’ve visited numerous accommodations in Alaska that offer value, service and that special characteristic of Alaskana that make them prime choices for choosy clients visiting Alaska in 2009. What follows are some of my top picks for the year ahead.
Alaska Heritage House
Alaska Heritage House is a can’t-miss B&B in downtown Fairbanks. The renovated, circa 1916 structure is within easy walking distance from shops, museums and fine restaurants.
The house is finished in painstaking detail and antiques abound, including an 1875 dining room table that came to Alaska around the tip of South America, followed by an arduous journey up the Yukon River. Clients will want to take time to view the seven guestrooms with historical themes.
Despite its strong embrace of antiquity, modern conveniences such as wireless Internet access, a coffee maker, an LCD television and a refrigerator are found in each room. And the cozy parlor room is ideal for small get-togethers.
Jacquie Haydon and her husband are superb hosts, and it was her cordiality and friendliness at breakfast that had me spending all morning visiting with them. They both were eager to share their knowledge of Fairbanks and Alaska, which is what makes their B&B much more fun than the average hotel room.
907-456-4100
www.alaskaheritagehouse.com
Dale and Jo View Suites
Dale and Jo is unlike any B&B I’ve experienced in Alaska. Located eight miles from Fairbanks International Airport and nestled within two acres of woodland forest, this crisp-looking structure redefined luxury for me.
I spent the night in the Executive Spa Room and didn’t want to leave the next morning. Dramatic windows, measuring six by eight feet, provided superb views of the Alaska Range and nearby river. I enjoyed a sound night’s rest in a king-size Select Number Bed, with adjustable settings. And clients who book in the summer months will be pleased to know that rooms are equipped with black-out curtains too. I was happy to find amenities like a flat-screen, satellite television, computer desk with an ergonomic adjustable chair, Wi-Fi and a bath so opulently supplied and furnished, I couldn’t decide whether to stay in my room or the bath. I was torn between the spacious spa soaking tub and oversized jet shower stall with ample room for two. I delighted in using the bath salts, gels and robes laid out conveniently on the double sinks and vanity.
For breakfast, I chose from delicious dishes, such as quiches, a frittata, homemade muesli and yogurt parfaits. The B&B gave me the choice of breakfasting in the privacy of my room or in the dining area with other guests.
907-456-6838
www.daleandjo.com
Anchorage University Lake Springhill Suites By Marriott
In August, NANA Development Corporation will open Anchorage University Lake Springhill Suites by Marriott located on the campus of Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage.
Located on the shores of University Lake, the all-suite hotel offers an indoor pool, complimentary Internet service and a stunning view of Anchorage’s Chugach Mountain Range. The hotel aims to offer easy access to Anchorage universities, competitive pricing and more than 300 miles of trails.
907-265-4301
www.nana.com
Knik River Lodge
Knik River Lodge is offering some new options in 2009, and agents would do well to familiarize themselves with this fast-growing and popular Mat-Su Valley resort.
Owner Peter Schade increased the number of guest cabins to 18, all overlooking the scenic Knik River in a remote area at the base of Chugach Mountain Range. The lodge’s new restaurant can accommodate as many as 45 people, serving mostly organic food, with Italian and Japanese influences. Meals showcase local delights like wild Alaska salmon, seafood and berries.
Each cabin is completely furnished and highlights include cheese spreads, outdoor events and campfires on the lodge grounds. The resort has a strong showing of European clientele, who I found delightful to visit with during the lodge’s happy hour and nightly barbecues. A tour to nearby Knik Glacier is an added bonus that can’t be missed. For a relaxing escape during the scenic fall season, Knik River Lodge is my top choice.
907-745-5002
www.knikriverlodge.com
