Tucked away in the heart of Bellevue, WA, lies a lovely cabin, mere steps from the Meydenbauer Bay, Lake Washington. About ten miles from the heart of Seattle, this is the perfect place to get away from a hectic day of sightseeing in the city.
I arrived much too late for my taste, around nine pm as I made the drive from Portland. It was dark, but my host gave me detailed instructions and had no problems finding the property, about one mile from the heart of Bellevue. I parked my car and walked the fifty-some well-lit steps down to the waterfront.
A Delight After a Long Drive
I could not have been happier. As soon as I walked in the front door, an inviting living area, complete with full kitchen and gas fireplace welcomed me. The bed, in its own little alcove, looked even more inviting. I was home (at least for a short time!)
The cabin is on a lower level behind the owner’s house in its own private little lot with a glorious view of the water. An outdoor patio with chairs, a table, an outdoor grill, and fire pit is just outside the cabin door.
The owners spared nothing in adding thoughtful touches to make my stay super comfortable. There was a welcome letter on the table, along with information about what to do in the area. And a bottle of my favorite beverage – red wine! How did they know?
And probably the best part? Heated stone floors! Swoon!
The kitchen was fully stocked with pots, pans, and other essential cooking items. A Keurig along with an assortment of coffee and tea pods, microwave popcorn, and breakfast bars. And even a little port wine tucked into one of the cupboards! Talk about being pampered! I threw on my pajamas and made myself right at home.
And Now for a Bit of History
Constructed in 1925, the cabin was built in an era when ferries still traversed the bay to Seattle and whalers routinely prepared their ships for voyages to Alaska. During that time, the cabin was a bit of a party house, with competitive poker parties. I’m guessing the fishermen needed a distraction from time to time?
In 1939 a bridge was completed across Lake Washington, effectively ending ferry service in favor of the almighty automobile. With the departure of the ferries also saw the end to the whaling ships in this area.
Cut to 1995. One-time Seattle Mariners’ manager and baseball legend, Lou Piniella, owned the house behind the cabin and enjoyed the cabin until about 2003. Over the years, the cabin has been renovated several times, to the cozy modern space that exists today.
Close to Seattle Royalty
Some notable figures who live not far from here are Bill and Melinda Gates, and Jeff Bezos (Amazon) who both currently live on Evergreen Point Road.
To wake up in a modern cabin, with a steaming cup of my favorite beverage, to a glorious lake view and downtown Bellevue just across the water, was heaven. Hot steamy water cascading from a rain showerhead in a stone-tiled shower just off the sleeping area completed my perfect morning.
Not long after sunrise, I ventured out to the dock just yards from the cabin, where a couple of boats were docked. To my right I was greeted with the best surprise yet – a gorgeous view of Mount Rainier off in the distance! It was a little cloudy on the morning of my stay. Had it been a completely clear day, I’m sure the view would have been even better.
This is the perfect getaway for solo travelers, romantic couples, or a small family. Kids can sleep on the cozy sectional sofa. I will surely be back one day. Although the dock and boats outside the cabin are privately owned and cannot be used, you can take advantage of the water by renting kayaks, canoes or boats nearby.
Things to Do in Bellevue
Shopping. While you are here, get a little taste of small-town life outside of Seattle and hit the shopping mall! Bellevue Square is an indoor mall with all of the shops and anchor stores you could ever hope to find in one place.
Go Fishin’. Lake Washington is a freshwater lake, and there are many opportunities for the angler in you.
Bellevue Botanical Gardens. 53 acres, jam-packed with Pacific Northwest flora can be enjoyed.
Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM). Displays an impressive array of both local and international artists. Rotating exhibits ensure a different experience each time you visit.
Mercer Slough Nature Park. Bellevue has no shortage of natural attractions, and this is one of the best. With more than six miles of trails, explore this gorgeous wetland environment. There is even an on-site blueberry farm.
Want to stay here? You can book this lovely cabin through the great folks at Vacasa.
Disclaimer: I was a guest at the cabin, however, all opinions expressed here are my own.
