Checking In: The Umstead Hotel & Spa

During our November trip to Raleigh we book our first stay at The Umstead Hotel & Spa. We’ve stayed at other hotels in and around the Raleigh area, but we were impressed from the moment we walked through the front doors. The Umstead features all of our favorite things from art to delicious food and afternoon tea, all of which we planned to enjoy to the fullest during our two night stay at the hotel.

At the front desk we were offered complementary champagne or apple cider. We went for the cider since it was rather on the chilly side during our trip, but it’s fall so that’s to be expected.

Before we went up to our room, we had a look around the lobby and bar area.

One of the lobby displays

There are so many beautiful art displays throughout the hotel. many of which are part of the hotels permanent collection. As art lovers, we always enjoy it when a hotel we are staying in shares our love of the arts.

We peaked in the hotel’s restaurant, Herons

Gorgeous florals can be seen and enjoyed through the hotel

We couldn’t have asked for a better room during our stay, which had beautiful views of both the water and fountain) and the pool, and outdoor eating area for the hotel’s restaurant, Herons.

The hotel features products by Lather, and has loofah’s both at the dual sinks and the bathtub has bath salts in lemongrass which we were glad to use after a day of driving and walking around Raleigh.

While water bottles are available at turn down, the Umstead also has the option of a carafe in your room that you can fill up at your convenience from the ice and water machine near the elevators on each floor.

If you’re planning on celebrating a birthday or special event during your stay, definitely let the staff know when you’re making your reservations. The Umstead delivered the most delicious macaroons to the room.

Fig and Goat Cheese, Spiced Pumpkin Latte, Spiced Apple Macarons

Like everything we enjoyed during our visit to the Umstead, these were the most delicious macaroons that we’ve every enjoyed. Plus, enjoying a French dessert was very fitting for a girl who loves all things French!