The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, NC and Herons Restaurant
Just minutes from the noise and bustle of everyday life in the Research Triangle, there is a tranquil oasis situated on twelve acres in Cary, North Carolina, The Umstead Hotel and Spa. What was described to me as “The Umstead Experience” became evident the minute we walked into the lobby.
This luxury property, recently named one of the Top Hotels in the South by Condé Naste Traveler, was also ranked #11 for Best Large City Hotels by Travel & Leisure in 2012. Herons, the signature restaurant at The Umstead, has received numerous accolades and awards including Five Stars from Forbes Travel Guide and Five Diamonds from AAA. It has also received recognition from Food & Wine and Southern Living.
We traveled to The Umstead to meet with Executive Chef Scott Crawford who has also been the executive chef at some of the finest properties in the Southeast including The Woodlands Resort & Inn in Summerville, South Carolina and The Cloister at Sea Island, Georgia. He is committed to using the absolute finest ingredients and supporting local artisans and farms.
The striking blend of art, nature, and refinement is evident as you enter the hotel’s lobby. Subtle earth tones and soft lighting combined with views of the surrounding lake, wooded property, and gardens have an immediate calming effect. It is obvious that every effort has been made to ensure the ultimate in relaxation and the perfect stay for the guests, down to the impeccable service offered by the staff.
Since it was Mr. B’s birthday weekend, we decided to take Beamer, our Tibetan Terrier, along for the celebration. The Umstead Hotel is pet friendly. Beamer settled right in with the dog bed and bowls provided in the room. Our room was located on the ground level with easy access to the gardens outside. We took afternoon walks around the lake. We enjoyed the beauty of nature and Beamer enjoyed the many plants, shrubs, and flowers that he closely inspected along the way.
Throughout our stay, there was a true sense of relaxation. A calm settled in. Each venue is designed to soothe the senses. The first afternoon we enjoyed a glass of wine on the upstairs patio outside the lounge and bar. As the afternoon sun began to set, the summer temperatures moderated and we were comfortable outdoors, with a bit of a breeze coming in from the lake. We took the time to enjoy the view from above where you could see all the grounds and the pool area. As I was thinking ahead to fall, the large stone fireplace on the patio looked like an ideal place to gather and enjoy a cocktail in the cooler months.
This resort looks amazing! It’s a nice combination of immaculate outdoor space and modern indoor. Based on the picture the wine list must be very good.
My husband and I have been visiting The Umstead and Heron’s for the last 5 years. Several times a year we treat ourselves to this outstanding paradise tucked away on the outskirts of Raleigh/Cary, North Carolina. Each time, as you expressed, we are sorry to leave. No detail is overlooked from the moment you enter until the time you drive away. The Umstead Spa is a not-to-be-missed experience as well. Absolutely splendid experience everytime!