At the dawn of the 20th century, Joseph Stickney had a bold vision for his creation: the Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. His aim was simple yet profound—“bring the outside in.” This architectural philosophy elegantly captures the spirit of the resort, beautifully nestled against the stunning backdrop of the White Mountains. Visitors can’t help but be mesmerized as they gaze out over the mountains from the expansive porches adorned with Spanish Renaissance revival architecture. This luxurious landscape not only offers a majestic vista but also harkens back to an era characterized by grand hotels, where elegance and leisure intertwined seamlessly.
During a recent visit to the now Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa, my companion and I embarked on an exploration that was both educational and indulgent. The hotel’s opulent history unfolded as we savored delectable offerings at its restaurants and reveled in the refined atmosphere of the new Presidential Wing, which serves as a testament to the resort’s unwavering commitment to luxury and comfort.
Stepping into the Great Hall is akin to stepping back in time. Towering columns, opulent chandeliers, and a monumental stone fireplace featuring a mounted moose head create a breathtaking first impression. It is easy to imagine the awe felt by the hotel’s original guests in 1902, arriving in style with their steamer trunks and fantasies of luxurious stays. On our visit, the hall was festooned with festive decorations, including vibrant Christmas trees and an inviting hot chocolate station, evoking the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Our journey continued as we ambled through the brick-walled lower level, replete with diverse entertainment offerings, including an arcade and dining options, while also discovering The Cave, a historically rich bar that once served as a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Such contrasts of past and present reveal the hotel’s unique character, merging its long-standing heritage with modern splendor.
The Presidential Wing, a recent addition that opened in 2020, signifies more than just an expansion; it marks a $60 million investment in preserving the storied past of the Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa while enhancing its contemporary appeal. This new wing comprises 69 elegantly appointed rooms, including luxurious suites complete with living areas and wet bars. Each guestroom is a haven of comfort, offering either private balconies or patios along with lavish bathrooms featuring soaking tubs.
According to Steve Janicek, the resort’s managing director, this expansion preserves the historic charm of the resort while integrating modern amenities. Our stay in a king-bed room afforded us breathtaking views over the Ammonoosuc River and the lush golf course, with the majestic Mount Washington serving as our backdrop—a feature that seamlessly marries nature with luxury.
Emphasizing the essence of indulgence, the resort presents a variety of culinary experiences. We relished breakfast at the esteemed 1902 Main Dining Room, which overlooks the enchanting White Mountains. With an impressive buffet that included a chicken and waffles station, the morning meal set a delightful tone for our day. Dinner was equally captivating, featuring exquisite creations like crab and Ritz-crusted cod and melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs.
Beyond the dining experiences, opportunities for leisure abound at Omni Mount Washington, despite less than ideal skiing conditions. While the nearby Bretton Woods ski area beckons with its celebrated trail networks, we found ourselves enchanted by nature via a carriage tour. Our cozy journey, accompanied by a knowledgeable driver and warmed with blankets, provided insight into the property’s history and stables. The prospect of swapping the carriage for a sleigh ride during appropriate snowfall evokes a nostalgic charm.
To fully appreciate what the Omni Mount Washington represents today, one must delve into its history. Daily tours illuminate the architectural nuances and the remarkable individuals who shaped the hotel, including stories about celebrities like Babe Ruth and the impactful Bretton Woods Conference held in 1944. Such historical insights underline how the hotel’s existence contributed to global economic structures post-World War II, showcasing its status as one of the last grand hotels from the Gilded Age.
A visit to the Omni Mount Washington Resort is more than just a getaway; it is an immersion into a legacy of opulence, natural beauty, and historical significance. The blend of historic charm with contemporary comforts ensures that the resort continues to be a cherished destination—one that invites guests to experience both a sense of nostalgia and the allure of modern luxury.