Nine decades ago, a hotelman wanted to create a unique destination resort in the Northwest — and the shores of the Hood Canal in Union were the perfect place for vacationers arriving by boat. Through the years, Alderbrook Inn changed several owners, looks and even purposes.

More than 90-years later, the Alderbrook Resort and Spa is once again looking to fit the bill of a destination resort, only guests now also have roads for traveling.

The Mason County resort reopened in July after an extensive two-year renovation that included incorporating some elements of the historic landmark while rebuilding and expanding the rest — including moving part of Highway 106. The opening was a blissful event for some families who have passed the tradition of vacationing there through two to three generations. Companies are already booking for 2005 events.

From 1998 to 2001, Crista Ministries owned the property and used it as a retreat, but the goal of the new owner, North Forty Lodging, was to create a year-round facility. “The resort was designed so it is attractive in summer but also in winter,” said General Manager Pam Graber. “A lot of folks come here because …it’s tranquil but it’s not far away.”

Alderbrook caters to two separate audiences. On one hand are those looking for a getaway. On the other are companies who want a beautiful setting for retreats or meetings and groups that have other gatherings. So far, one category comes mostly on the weekends while the other often during the week — so the facility’s use is quite efficient.
  Those looking to get away from the world will find themselves lost among the views of the Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains while indulging into spa services or outdoor fun. Those who come to work will find a temporary “office” that has meeting space with state-of-the-art multimedia equipment. Anyone just driving by can of course stop in at the restaurant, and many local residents did just that in the past.

State Route 106 that used to go through the property has been moved further uphill, and now visitors “have an arrival experience,” Graber said. With the highway gone, so is the noise of cars.

Graber said the major changes were architectural at Alderbrook. The new design reflects the Hood Canal traditions and the Northwest style, and even the color choices are a combination of earthy and woodsy hues.

“Reservations have been very, very good,” Graber said, adding that so far leisure travelers are scheduling about two weeks out while groups are looking at five months in advance. Three couples have already tied the knot there as of July end, and as long as the weather is beautiful big group events can spill into the outdoors to mingle. About 200 people can be accommodated for a sit-down dinner in one room, and 120 more in another.

No matter if a visitor comes in for business or pleasure, there is plenty to do besides relaxing and enjoying the views: playing golf, swimming in the pool, kayaking, or just stretching out and watching the salmon spawn.