6 Best Hotels in Winthrop, North Central Washington

With an enviable location overlooking the Chewuch River and just a stone's throw from Winthrop's quirky shops and eateries, this small compound of one- to three-bedroom cabins with kitchens—and in most cases hot tubs and river views—is a terrific find and a great value. These contemporary cabins are simply but cheerfully furnished and all have the comforts of home, such as reliable Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and pots, pans, and cooking utensils.

The stunning North Cascades and all its attractions are the stars of this outdoor-oriented resort replete with luxurious accommodations, spectacular mountain views, and a range of activities that make it a year-round destination, whether the peaks are covered in snow or wildflowers. The property offers outdoor pools and hot tubs, tennis courts, 100 miles of hiking, horseback riding, boating on Patterson Lake, and skiing trails. The Mt. Gardner and Mt. Robinson buildings provide the best accommodations, with fireplaces and private patios or balconies. Spacious luxury cabins skirting the shores of Lake Patterson are also available and are pet-friendly. The upscale Dining Room serves fine Pacific Northwest fare, while Wolf Creek Bar and Grill is more casual.

At this inn on 5 acres just south of Winthrop and a short walk to town, lodgings have modern amenities, luxurious touches, and themes reflecting the rustic environment, illustrated in room names like Eagle's Nest, the Corral, Trout Hollow, and Dancing Bears. Some have fireplaces and murals by local artists. Plush Craftsman-style cabins have sleeper sofas, kitchens or kitchenettes, propane barbecues, and covered decks; some also have fireplaces. Comfortable beds have 500-thread-count linens and down bedding. All rates include the inn's hearty breakfast buffet, and there are free cookies in the afternoon, too.

At the heart of the 120-acre, historic Wilson Ranch, amid more than 2 million acres of forest, this upscale mountain retreat embraces the pioneer spirit in spacious rooms, suites, and cabins snuggled up to Early Winters Creek. Guest quarters in the main building are enhanced by gas fireplaces, mini-refrigerators, and balconies or patios overlooking Freestone Lake; suites and one- and two-bedroom cabins have full kitchens. The Sandy Butte Bistro, specializing in contemporary American cuisine and Washington wines, is open for breakfast and dinner. Casual fare is available next to the pool at Jack's Pizza and Brews. Both eateries may be closed or have limited hours during the off-season.

New ownership in 2020 has brought the former Mazama Country Inn, a longtime no-frills base camp for outdoor recreation enthusiasts, a new name, upgraded rooms and amenities, and an expanded focus on serving both sports enthusiasts and people who simply want to retreat and recharge away from it all. While the rooms don't have TVs, the inn has Wi-Fi throughout the property, co-working spaces, and private offices that can be rented by the day, week, or month. Rooms vary in style and may come with gas fireplaces, fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, sleeping lofts, jetted tubs, and patios. Inn amenities include a seasonal pool, hot tub, sauna, and tennis and pickleball courts. More upgrades are in the works, too.

The rooms and cabins are comfortable but not fancy here, and the inn's riverfront location and amenities—including picnic tables, hammocks, a playground, and lawn games—make it a popular place to stay, especially for families. Rooms have log furnishings, including futons in some; flat-screen TVs with DVD players and streaming service; Wi-Fi; and a microwave and mini-refrigerator. Cabins have small kitchens and barbecues. Local coffee in the rooms is a nice extra.