Watch Hill, Rhode Island is a low-key, unpretentious beach town with just the right dash of elegance thanks to The Ocean House Hotel, the perfectly manicured hedges and a sleuth of famous residents which include none other then Ms. Taylor Swift. This coastal village not only is less crowded than the Hamptons and easier to reach than MV or Nantucket, it also has endless pristine beaches, art galleries and a full food scene… making it an ideal destination 365 days a year. After 106 days at home, I packed my bags and trunk and drove North to check it all out. What I found was a playground for the discerning traveler and a heavenly sandwich from Sift Bakery that I still cannot replicate no matter how many times I have tried. The details below — xx Elisa
STAY
OCEAN HOUSE: The grand dame of Watch Hill is perched dramatically on a hill that leads down to a white sandy beach. The elegant property, part of the Relais and Chateaux collection has the feel of an intimate resort even though it boosts 6 restaurants, an indoor/outdoor pool, a movie theater and a Forbes five star spa. Open year round, the hotel offers uncompromising service, Mercedes Benz house cars, world class amenities, endless activities and a full service kids club.
ACCOMODATIONS: 45 rooms, 19 suites that each features a full kitchen, dining and living are as well as terrace and ocean views and 6 private cottages.
MAPPS FAV: At the hotel we loved The Seaglass Suite and The Morgan Suite. Off property, the private cottages were spacious, well appointed and are the perfect option for those seeking privacy with access to resort amenities.
ROOM TO SKIP: Standard Queen room. It certainly is a lovely accommodation but neighborhood views are not for everyone and some of these do not offer a tub.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
MAPPS X OCEAN HOUSE: Special nightly rates, upgrade subject to availability, complimentary daily breakfast and resort credits.
GETTING HERE: 2.5 hours north of New York City, 2 hours south of Boston and 45 minutes south of Newport, RI by car. There is a daily train from Penn Station NYC to Westerly, RI on Amtrak ( 3 hour ride ) and guests will be picked up by a staff member in a house car Mercedes and make the ten minute trek to the hotel.
ACTIVITIES: Beach, water sports including surf lessons, boating, fishing, indoor pool, fitness center and spa, movie theater, squash courts, croquet, golf, tennis, paddle, kids club, cooking classes and wine tastings.
IDEAL TRAVELER: Families, couples or groups of friends looking for an easy and active getaway.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: June-September or holiday weeks to enjoy all the special activities and decorations such as Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas… especially the winter fondue igloos.
P.S. On property do not miss the Veuve Cliquot Secret Garden Champagne Bar, weekend beach lobster boils and the taco beach shack. Off property take a hike on Napatree Point, grab ice cream at nearby Claire Annex, baked goods, salads and sandwiches at Sift Bakery, dinner in town at The Olympic Tea Room and pick up candles at WH2O.
PACK YOUR BAGS and we will handle the rest. Email info@mappstravel.com to start planning.
