FAVORITE B & Bs WEST OF THE ROCKIES
Story and photography
by Eric Anderson & Nancy Allen

ORCAS ISLAND IN THE SAN JUANS

To some Americans the San Juans lie someplace in the Pacific Northwest lost in a vague black hole between the United States and Canada, as remote and inaccessible as, for example, Easter Island. The islands might not be the first vacation choice for people living, say, in Florida.

If so, more’s the pity. Sure, it takes a bit of effort to get there but, as is probably true in life, the rewards are proportional to the endeavor. The San Juan Islands are unique. Some of their fishing villages may remind the visitor of Maine, their beaches of the Barrier islands, their cliffs of northern California but their people are unique: resourceful, sturdy and independent, but welcoming, friendly and appreciative of those who have come to give the truth to the cliché, come as a stranger, leave as a friend.

The islands all have their different personalities. Lopez Island, a mere 30 square miles, is the way life used to be. San Juan Island itself is 55 square miles and more busy. Orcas Island is the third island, bigger at 57 square miles. It’s upscale as you find as soon as you check into the Inn on Orcas Island in Deer Harbor and feel you’ve stepped into the pages of Architectural Digest. (888-886-1661 www.theinnonorcasisland.com ). You won’t want to leave. It’s all beautiful antiques, attractive art, working fireplaces, inviting Jacuzzis, down comforters and indulgent breakfasts.

For dinner make for The Inn at Ship Bay (877-276-7296 www.innatshipbay.com) in a restored 1869 farmhouse or the Rosario Resort (800-562-8820 www.rosarioresort.com) in the original Moran Mansion, now listed on the National Historic Register.