I’ve long desired to visit Rhode Island. I’ve romanticized the state’s natural beauty, its historic charm, and its seemingly idyllic way of life. For me, Rhode Island conjures images of an enchanting coastal existence, with scenic lighthouses, sailing adventures, and endless stretches of beach. I’ve imagined it a place of simple pleasures and of timeless elegance, where history and modernity coexist. How fortunate was I that my first visit to the Ocean State included a stay at Weekapaug Inn, a hospitality experience that confirmed nearly every notion that I had about this enchanting New England state.
Located just across the Connecticut border in Westerly, within the peaceful community of Weekapaug, the classic Cape Cod style Relais & Chateaux inn is charming, to put it mildly. Originally built in 1899, the Inn has welcomed guests ever since to its bucolic landscape where a shimmering sun rises over Quonochontaug Pond, Adirondack chairs grace the great lawn, interior communal spaces provide cozy respite, and a verdant chef’s garden provides the Inn’s kitchen and bar with the freshest of ingredients. 33 guest rooms, including four Signature Suites, range from 250 to 2,000 square feet. Each is distinctive in décor, and each is equipped with the finest amenities, as well as a mix of original Inn furnishings and up-to-date pieces. My Fenway Suite (of which there are three) included a private, furnished terrace with deep soaking tub, a mini bar of deluxe sized spirits for the taking, and turndown service chocolates.
I’m certain that Weekapaug Inn captivates in all seasons. My late October stay allowed for cocktails by a wood burning fireplace in The Bar, the Inn’s welcoming, central gathering spot, as soft jazz played in the background. Cool, windy weather induced me to pick a pair of Wellies from the Inn’s Hunter Borrowing Closet for my speedboat tour of the pond, led by the Inn’s in-house naturalist who pointed out the area’s varied flora and fauna. Stocked with boots and slickers in a variety of colors and sizes for complimentary use, the closet is a fun perk and its contents are perfect for beach walks, boating excursions, biking, bird watching, stargazing, and more. My autumn visit also introduced me to the fabled fall colors of the east coast, every bit as beguiling as I was led to believe—the full palette visible from my Fenway Suite’s large picture window. And cooler months bring a calm quietude and tranquility that I found immensely restorative.
As fulfilled as I was during my autumn stay, I can only imagine what pleasures warmer weather allows: boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, access to a white sand beach with umbrellas, chairs and towels, lobster boils and BBQs on the lawn where shuffleboard and cornhole beckon, and sunbathing around the Inn’s pristine heated saline swimming pool and hot tub (which is actually open through November.) Golf and tennis can be arranged by request at a nearby private facility.
The cuisine alone—so beautiful, delicious, and redolent of the Inn’s Relais & Chateaux designation—is worth a stay. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are enjoyed within casually elegant The Restaurant where Executive Chef Andrew Brooks, Sous Chef Cameron Gray, and Executive Pastry Chef Jessica Quiet create a bit of culinary magic with their seasonal take on New England coastal cuisine. The trio works closely with local growers, farmers, and fishmongers to endure the finest ingredients are available at peak freshness. More than fulfilling was my late harvest, heirloom tomato tart, pan seared halibut, and glass of Sancerre. Chef Quiet’s Coffeemilk Crunch Bar (brownie, biscotti crumble and salted caramel) was the perfect denouement. The dining room is cozy, with views of the pond and the lawn. In warmer months, al fresco dining is offered on The Deck and around the pool, and beach snacks, sandwiches and pizza are served at the Bathhouse. S’mores are de rigueur every night in any season (weather permitting).
A Relais & Ch teaux hotel is part of a prestigious collection of independently owned luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants that are united by a commitment to excellence in hospitality, service, and the art of living. Key criteria include: exceptional location, exceptional high-end service, unique character, exceptional gastronomy, and a commitment to sustainability and local culture
In essence, a Relais & Ch teaux property is more than just a luxury hotel; it is an experience that embodies the finest elements of hospitality, cuisine, and local culture, with an emphasis on authenticity, individuality, and an elevated sense of service. Weekapaug Inn is just such a property.
Photos courtesy of Weekapaug Inn, except where noted
