Inspector Picks: 10 Lodgings with Gorgeous Greenery and Scenery
Updated: April 19, 2023
Bellagio
Las Vegas, Nevada
AAA Inspector 39: The seasonally changing indoor conservatory and dancing water fountains are my favorite feature at this legendary resort in the heart of the strip.
The Dale Chihuly hand-blown glass flowers on the lobby ceiling wow guests as they check in. The contemporary rooms feature several appealing color schemes. Onlookers linger outside to enjoy the dancing fountains daily. Make sure to view the seasonally changing conservatory. The hotel impresses me each time I visit any of the restaurants, shows or even the trendy night clubs and lounges.
Cedarbrook Lodge
Seatac, Washington
AAA Inspector 31: After a long drive or flight, I really look forward to stretching my legs by walking the lush grounds of this hotel.
In so many ways, this hotel feels like a remote, private club—it's only minutes from the interstate and the airport but with none of the associated hustle and noise. Guests traveling on business will love that their room includes a large work area and comfortable chair for lounging while everyone will enjoy a midnight raid on the communal freezer for a little free ice cream.
The Charlotte Inn
Edgartown, Massachusetts
AAA Inspector 46: Rooms are set in a series of buildings connected by brick paths meandering through meticulous ivy gardens and fountains. Every inch is perfection.
This stately 1864 Edwardian-era inn is home to the finest getaway on the island. Staff members cater to guests' whims while top of the line Frette bedding, Bvlgari amenities and Hermes soaps await. Museum-quality antiques and original oil paintings from the early 19th century are tastefully placed throughout the inn. A full cooked-to-order breakfast is available for an additional charge in the glass-paneled conservatory. Complimentary bottled water and afternoon beverage and repast is served every afternoon on the outdoor porch in summer or fireside in the winter. Summer offerings typically include ice tea or lemonade on the porch. The inn's parking lot is located down the street, approximately a four minute walk away.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Whistler, Canada
AAA Inspector 594: The rooftop garden, where the chef grows his herbs, is pretty neat. But it's the beehives there, from which they make their own honey, that amaze me!
Near the Blackcomb Mountain chairlift, this inspiring château has gorgeous floral arrangements in the impressive lobby and lounge. Upscale rooms, which range in size, feature sumptuous bedding. The grounds are lovely and you can enjoy croquet or giant Jenga and other games. There is a luxurious indoor and outdoor pool area which offers food and beverage service. If you simply must shop, you'll enjoy perusing the luxury stores and art galleries.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Austin, Texas
AAA Inspector 556: If I'm dreaming, don't wake me. I'm enjoying the gardens, tree lanterns, hammocks and views of the lake from the back lawn.
The upscale décor, luxurious comforts and refined service are what make this place a first-class experience. The backyard balcony has superb views of the river and park. One of the premier features about this property would be its location. Head out the front door and you are only steps away from the busy lifestyle of downtown Austin. When you get back and are ready to unwind, grab a drink at the lobby lounge and pull up a seat on the outdoor balcony. Enjoy the calming views of the manicured grounds and folks kayaking on the Colorado River. On some nights you can catch a glimpse of the famous Austin bats.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
Kissimmee, Florida
AAA Inspector 591: I enjoy wandering the lavishly landscaped walkways in the atrium and checking out the Everglades section which features gators and turtles.
Striking architecture greets guests at the eco-friendly hotel that offers top-notch service paired with impressive décor. Thematic rooms offer upscale décor and a balcony, many overlook the atrium. Grounds are accented with colorful and well-manicured landscaping and the impressive atrium lobby houses large rock formations with streams and cascading waterfalls. The streams are stocked with koi fish, alligators and turtles. The vast amount of recreational facilities and amenities is a huge draw for families while the expansive banquet space, which includes a convention center, houses many corporate groups and caters to weddings throughout the year. A virtual, interactive concierge system is placed strategically throughout the property and has digital displays that allow you to access maps, your location, weather conditions, amenities at the resort and more.
Hotel Mazarin-J Collection
New Orleans, Louisiana
AAA Inspector 373: The open air central courtyard, spouting fountain, tropical foliage and wrought iron bistro tables transports me to a by-gone era of the old south.
All room types have luxurious décor accentuated by marble tile floors. Adding to the property's appeal is a French Quarter-style, open-air central courtyard, lush with plants and a flowing fountain.
L'Auberge de Sedona
Sedona, Arizona
AAA Inspector 39: The plush landscape that includes fruit trees, koi ponds and a natural creek blow me away every year. The cottages are located amongst the landscape.
A lodge and individual cottages are nestled on several acres of landscaped and tree-shaded grounds along Oak Creek. A country French decor, impressive beds and fireplaces are offered in the cottages. The spa offers open-air, creekside massages.
Manoir Rouville-Campbell
Mont-St-Hilaire, Canada
This Tudor-style inn has rooms decorated with quality antique reproduction furnishings. Forty of the new rooms have contemporary décor treatments and are modern-chic. The property is located on the shores of the Richelieu River, among beautifully tended French and English gardens.
Pearson's Pond Luxury Inn and Adventure Spa
Juneau, Alaska
AAA Inspector 594: I could spend all day relaxing by the private pond on one of the secluded benches surrounded by the lush green forest.
A tranquil pond beautifies the lovely grounds, which feature gazebos and sitting areas where you can view the Mendenhall Glacier or soak in an outdoor hot tub. Every whim is taken care of. The owners are hospitable and social, offering complimentary wine and snacks, assisting with local activities and even providing company on a nature walk or bike ride. Relax at the end of an adventurous day in the luxurious guest rooms which offer many amenities, including electric fireplaces.