Newport is a fantastic, drive-able escape for those of us on the east coast. One of the oldest resort towns in America, Newport, Rhode Island, offers something for everyone. From salty beach days to exploring stunning mansions on breathtaking cliffs, there is so much of Newport waiting to be discovered. Just four hours from New York City and an hour and a half from Boston, the beach town paradise is a great summer getaway.
I stayed at the Chanler at Cliff Walk. I’d been there over the summer, and was very impressed not only with the hotel, but also with their safety protocols. They are limiting their occupancy, as are many hotels. Plexiglass screens have been added, as well as planters – for unobtrusive separation of seating clusters. They also have several guest rooms that have their own exterior entrances – they do not share common hallways, stairways, or elevators. And the hotel has introduced contactless check-in, if guests prefer. A member of the staff will meet guests at their door, have them sign, hand them the key – and that’s it.
The Chanler is a spectacular property, perched above Cliff Walk and the ocean. The rooms are well-appointed, and the service is excellent. And, for COVID safety, they have heated outdoor dining and are limiting the seating capacity in their fine dining restaurant, Cara to 6 people.
As the only hotel situated alongside the famed mansions of Cliff Walk, The Chanler provides one of the most unique stays among the area’s luxury hotels and some of the finest lodging in Newport, RI. The twenty guest rooms and villas, featuring custom linens and upholstery, as well as distinguished designs, are imbued with a variety of different styles characteristic of Newport’s rich history. From the seaside serenity of our Nantucket Ocean Villa to the quaint colonial charm of the Williamsburg Room, all of our rooms are thoughtfully-furnished according to those historical periods. Many of the guest rooms have gas fireplaces, and some have spacious outdoor terraces, while a few even have outdoor jacuzzis.
Exploring outside of the property, we took a private 90-minute expedition on Narragansett Bay with the hotel chef, and their oyster purveyor, Walrus and Carpenter. The boat goes out to Walrus and Carpenter’s Oyster Farm. where guests learn about oyster farming, sorting, tasting, and even shucking. Once back at the hotel, guests enjoy a 3-course lunch, featuring oysters from the farm. This would make a PERFECT activity for a long weekend getaway.
Mid-December, they received 2 custom yurts from Colorado. These are installed on the great lawn, overlooking the ocean, decorated and heated. The chef is creating a special menu for dinners served in the yurts. So, this is another great socially distanced dining option. These yurts will be available for booking, similar to pool cabanas.
A trip to the Chanler is perfect for a foodie. Chef Jacob Jasinski has been there less than 2 years – but he is creative, enthusiastic and talented. He and his team can make Newport a foodie destination. He’s recently introduced a breakfast amuse-bouche – which changes regularly but is delicious and creative.
The Chanler represents the unique blend of contemporary serenity gilded by the elegance of Newport’s historic past. I would not miss a chance to stay here this summer!
March 2020 | Amy Siegal