We’re definitely committed to the RV lifestyle, but sometimes it’s a sweet relief to take a break from that tiny home on wheels.

Here are the top 10 hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts or resorts we immensely enjoyed while on our eight-month, 20,000-mile journey across the country.

Chico Hot Springs: Just down the road from magical Yellowstone National Park, this charming Montana resort has a rich history that dates back more than 100 years. We loved the comfy cabin we bunked in for a night, especially after a relaxing soak and a lovely dinner that ended with the famous flaming orange dessert.

Limelight Inn: Escaping an early fall snowstorm in Aspen, we huddled by the fire and watched the fat flakes fall from our cozy room while getting pumped for a John Denver tribute show. This popular mini-chain (with locations in Ketchum, Idaho, and Snowmass, Colo.) offers loads of thoughtful touches, and an excellent breakfast is included with the rooms. 

Magnolia Hotel & Spa: Centrally located in downtown Victoria, B.C., we felt so grateful our room had a stunning view of the beautiful harbor, a soaking tub, and luxe sheets that felt like silk. The ever-present tea, coffee and fruit in the lobby were much appreciated, as were the warm greetings from the staff.

Eve’s Garden: Arriving at this bed-and-breakfast in Marathon, Texas, after our fantastic visit to Big Bend National Park, it felt as if we had landed in the middle of an art installation. Yup, that’s exactly what’s going on at this quirky-cool venue run by artist/gardener extraordinaire Kate Thayer and her daughter-in-law Alaine Berg, the excellent breakfast cook. A truly original place.

29 Palms Inn: Just outside Joshua Tree National Park, this inviting destination pulled us in its direction a couple of times. The first time was after a bone-chilling visit to the park, and we were delighted to take advantage of the wood-burning fire. During our second visit, the weather was warm enough to swim in the pretty pool, and we savored a wonderful dinner in the dining room.

Mesa Verde National Park Far View Lodge: Rooms are simple and spare, but who cares? You’ll spend most of your visit exploring one of our favorite national parks or gazing out the window at the stunning views.

Allegretto Vineyard Resort: In the heart of Paso Robles wine country, this resort found a warm place in our hearts with its eclectic collection of art, its on-site tasting room, and gorgeous grounds, which we admired from the ground floor patio off our spacious room.

The Hotel Telluride: We’ve been to this Colorado mining town-turned-fancy-resort-village many times, but never been as comfortable as when we checked into this posh spot. Our homey room looked out on the high school football field, and we got a kick watching the kids practice against a glorious backdrop of autumn leaves.

Plaza Hotel & Casino: When it comes to Vegas, we’re always going to gravitate Downtown, and the Plaza made our stay especially memorable. Not just because John won big at keno one morning during breakfast, either. We loved the pop art feel of the public spaces and the tidy aesthetics of our rooms.

Jupiter NEXT Hotel Portland: While Feasting in PDX last fall, we fell in love with this brand new property that has knockout city views, exceptional public spaces that can feel like the best kind of party and stylish rooms featuring local artists. Big thumbs up to the waste-busting practice of providing mugs to guests to take to the lobby for morning coffee or tea.

 

This week’s Going Mobile question

Do you use your RV for tailgating? Cougs, Huskies or Eagles? Email us your story at goingmobile@spokesman.com and we’ll share it in an upcoming column.

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