The start of Summer stokes in all of us a feeling of “vacation time”. Whether it’s the coast or the mountains, we feel the need to get away, to be rejuvenated. Unfortunately, it’s much easier said than done, but it is possible to relax, renew, and have a staycation right here in the Triangle where The Umstead in Cary should be top on your list.
Cary has the crown jewel of hotels and spas, The Umstead, tucked into 12 acres of woodlands, overlooking a private lake near the William B. Umstead State Park.
It’s just minutes from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and the Research Triangle Park. As the state’s most highly rated hotel, its restaurant, Herons, has received national and international awards. (For oenophiles: Its exceptional wine cellar has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.)
Ease your anxiety by strolling through the property and enjoying the privately curated fine art, including works by national and local artists with 95 original pieces. The Umstead surprises, delights, and enriches at every turn: a Dale Chihuly sculpture, fresh flower arrangements, and spacious guest rooms with stunning views. Its appreciation for the arts is obvious.
Featured artists are changed every three to four months, and original works are available for sale to the art aficionado in The Umstead’s art gallery.
While enjoying your stay, partaking of Herons cuisine is a must. As a recipient of Forbes’s Five-Star rating and AAA’s Diamond award, it’s a meal to be relished. Labeled as one of Newsweek’s “101 Best Places to Eat in the World”, the staff takes the title seriously, making sure your dining experience is memorable. Guitar or piano entertainment is offered nightly as diners view the landscape through floor-to-ceiling windows.
For the ultimate in relaxation, there’s no better spot than The Umstead Spa. Completely renovated in 2013, The Umstead has fused nature with river rock, granite, glass, and bamboo, giving the feeling of being one with the outdoors. The 16,000-square foot oasis includes three couples’ treatment rooms, each with a deep soaking tub, along with men’s and women’s private lounges with a steam room eucalyptus infused. There’s also a deluge shower, whirlpool and sauna, a coed relaxation lounge, an open-roof current pool, nail salon, meditation courtyard, and 24-hour fitness center. It’s difficult deciding where to spend your time.
The Umstead’s lobby-lounge is the perfect location for afternoon tea. Served Wednesday through Sunday, choose from a selection of black, green, and white teas and a menu of tea sandwiches, scones, and sweets.
If you’re looking to take in some sun, the seasonal outdoor pool and pool bar with cabanas is the place to unwind. You can also enjoy the walking trail surrounding a three-acre lake or take advantage of the complimentary bicycles and helmets The Umstead offers guests. Championship golf is nearby. Ask the staff to schedule a tee time at the Prestonwood Golf Club in Cary or the Governors Club in Chapel Hill.
The best way to reap the benefits of your staycation is by remaining several nights. You are still in town, but you’ll feel a thousand miles away. In your beautifully appointed guest room or suite, it may be a struggle to leave the second-to-none accommodations, but the spa and Herons beckon and are worth it!
As the state’s most highly rated hotel, it boasts stunning interiors accentuated with privately curated fine art, 150 spacious guest rooms and suites, world-class cuisine, a stimulating spa, gracious staff, and a serene woodland setting.
For more information or to book your stay, visit www.theumstead.com or call them at 919.447.4000.