Ensconced inside towering, snow-capped mountains and surrounded by dense forest, BlueWater BaseCamp gives a peaceable retreat the place the great thing about Alaska takes heart stage. The air is crisp, the wilderness expansive, and the ambiance invitations you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Right here, the times start with the mushy rustle of leaves and ends with the glint of a campfire beneath a star-filled sky—effectively, if it’s not cloudy! On clear nights, you may even be fortunate sufficient to witness the Aurora Borealis dance throughout the sky, including an additional layer of magic to this already enchanting location. Whether or not or not the celebrities or northern lights are placing on a present, that is nonetheless an unforgettable expertise that leaves you in awe of Alaska’s pure wonders.
A New Alaskan Retreat
Situated simply off Freeway 1, about 45 minutes northeast of Anchorage, BlueWater BaseCamp is among the latest additions to Alaska’s assortment of boutique lodging choices, opening its doorways within the spring of 2024. It’s not only a place to remain—it’s a thoughtfully designed retreat constructed with care and craftsmanship. I had the pleasure of staying right here as a part of a three-day journey led by Revel Treks + Excursions, who curated an unimaginable itinerary that included two breathtaking hikes, kayaking on the pristine Eklutna Lake, mountain biking by way of scenic trails, and even just a few surprises alongside the best way.
This retreat gives a mix of luxurious and rustic attraction, making it excellent for these in search of each consolation and a deep connection to the encompassing wilderness. Its location within the coronary heart of the Eklutna Valley offers visitors with easy accessibility to close by adventures, whereas additionally serving as a tranquil haven for rest.
Cozy Cabins and Bigger Chalets at BlueWater BaseCamp
BlueWater BaseCamp is designed to cater to quite a lot of vacationers, whether or not you’re embarking on a solo journey, a romantic getaway, or a household journey. The property options eight superbly crafted cabins, every providing a novel mix of recent facilities and the comfy, intimate really feel of a mountain lodge. The smaller Tiny Chalets, like Mitre and Pepper Peak cabins, are excellent for {couples}, that includes a queen mattress, a sitting space, and a well-equipped kitchenette full with a stove-top, fridge, and even a Keurig espresso maker. I stayed within the Ranger’s Roost, I can attest, excellent for a romantic get-away. It’s value noting that a number of of the cabins are even handicap accessible, making this magical place obtainable to a variety of vacationers.
For these touring with household or a bunch, the Giant Chalets—akin to Daring Peak and Twin Peaks—are supreme, accommodating as much as six visitors. These spacious cabins include full kitchens, eating areas, and even a loft for further sleeping area. Each element has been fastidiously thought out, from the high-quality linens on the beds to the accessible design of the bogs, making certain that each one visitors really feel snug and cared for.
Outside Facilities and Gathering Areas
One of many highlights of staying at BlueWater is the abundance of out of doors facilities that improve the expertise. There’s a communal hearth pit the place visitors can collect within the evenings, sharing tales and toasting marshmallows for s’mores. The property additionally boasts an occasion heart, making it a unbelievable alternative for weddings, household reunions, or company retreats. The fantastic thing about the encompassing panorama, mixed with the intimate, well-crafted cabins, offers an unforgettable setting for any occasion.
The Craftsmanship Behind BlueWater BaseCamp
BlueWater BaseCamp was constructed by Russ, a contractor with a ardour for creating areas that mix seamlessly with their surroundings. Collectively along with his spouse, Teal, they’ve poured their hearts into making BlueWater a welcoming and cozy retreat. Their heat hospitality shines by way of in each interplay, from the personalised service to the considerate touches all through the property.
Russ and his group paid shut consideration to each element, making certain that every cabin just isn’t solely useful, but additionally aesthetically pleasing. The pure wooden finishes, the comfy furnishings, and the fastidiously curated décor all contribute to an environment of understated luxurious. It’s the sort of place the place you instantly really feel at house, surrounded by nature, whereas having fun with the comforts of recent residing.
At BlueWater, you’re not simply greeted by Russ and Teal’s heat hospitality—you’ll additionally meet their two pleasant canine, Ranger and Esmeralda. Ranger, who appears to have the superpower of leaping larger than tall buildings, will impress you along with his athleticism and playful spirit. Then there’s Esmeralda, the cutest and furriest pet you’ve ever seen, who will soften your coronary heart together with her large eyes and pleasant, wagging tail. Collectively, they add an additional contact of affection to your keep.
Adventures within the Eklutna Valley
Whereas BlueWater itself gives loads of causes to loosen up and keep near house, the encompassing space is a playground for out of doors lovers. The jewel of the area, Eklutna Lake, is only a brief drive away, its crystal-clear waters beckoning for kayaking, fishing, or just having fun with the serene views. Close by mountaineering trails take you thru forests and up into the mountains, providing gorgeous vistas of the valley under. In the event you want strategies on the place to go, Teal and Russ are completely satisfied to make strategies as they’re specialists on the world.
Along with the lake, the area is dotted with waterfalls and different pure wonders ready to be explored. The charming cities of Palmer to the north and Chugiak to the south present a style of native Alaskan tradition, with quaint retailers, native eateries, and scenic spots to discover. Whether or not you’re drawn to the journey of mountain biking or the tranquility of a peaceable lakeside stroll, the Eklutna Valley has one thing to supply each sort of traveler. One restaurant I extremely advocate is Feather & Flour, however make sure you make reservations effectively prematurely.
Why BlueWater BaseCamp Stands Out
BlueWater BaseCamp gives greater than only a place to sleep. It’s a full expertise, fastidiously crafted to mix one of the best of Alaska’s wilderness with the heat of human hospitality. Whether or not you’re sitting by the fireplace pit with a cup of espresso in hand or heading out for a day of journey, the BlueWater serves as each a sanctuary and a launchpad for discovery. The seamless steadiness of consolation, magnificence, and journey makes it a great vacation spot for these trying to expertise the true essence of Alaska.
In the event you’re on the lookout for a spot to flee the busyness of on a regular basis life whereas nonetheless being linked to the guts of nature, BlueWater BaseCamp needs to be on the prime of your checklist. With its luxurious lodging, welcoming hosts, and unparalleled entry to Alaska’s nice outside, this can be a vacation spot that captures the spirit of the Final Frontier.
