Yes, the 'H' word. You may as well admit that they're practically upon us. Again. This is a wonderful thing, unless of course you are behind on your holiday travel planning. I must tell you that people have been getting their travel plans for the holidays finalized since last summer! You are late but you are not out of luck. Here is an idea, and i may even have some special incentives available, so tarry no longer!
Edgartown, MA
If you have never been there, you may only know it by the more generic 'Martha's Vineyard', which is the name of the island, and Edgartown is the county seat for Dukes County. It was once a major whaling port, with historic houses that have been carefully preserved. Most people think of Martha's Vineyard for their summertime getaways, when the island's population swells dramatically.
The island's iconic Harbor View Hotel is quintessentially New England. This Victorian-era beach hotel’s faithfully restored facade, and 117 crisp, bright rooms have just undergone a full restoration; book a room that faces the harbor, or soak in the view over just-shucked oysters at Bettini’s restaurant. Take just a five-minute walk to Edgartown’s charming center, home to beautiful galleries and iconic boutiques. Having lived in Massachusetts, I find New England is the home of the quintessential Christmas. For over a century, discerning guests have gathered at Harbor View to celebrate the ultimate New England vacation one sun-kissed season after another: families create traditions at this seaside resort, starting as young couples saying vows on the Great Lawn. However, if you haven't experienced the holidays there, this year might be the perfect opportunity.
It’s no secret that the award-winning Harbor View Hotel is the best on the island. They roll out the red carpet for their guests, all of whom enjoy priority entrée to the Roxy Pool Bar, the farm-to-table Bettini Restaurant and Bettini Club as well as exclusive access to the fitness center, stunning outdoor spaces, shimmering ocean views, close proximity to town. Guest rooms boast Molton Brown bath products, Frette linens, Nespresso Coffee machines, luxe robes, WiFi, and wireless speakers.
No other resort on Martha’s Vineyard enjoys the dazzling views of seaside life and proximity to the island’s best shopping, restaurants, galleries and cultural experiences. After 130 years, the Harbor View Hotel has been thoroughly refurbished and redesigned with a $15 million renovation. Every square inch of the property is beautifully revamped.
Amenities include as the heated, saltwater outdoor pool, brand new fitness center, spectacular ocean views, golf cart shuttles to beach and town, as well as Mercedes-Benz vehicles and bicycles for guest use. It might be a little chilly for that, so bundle up!
Thanksgiving at Harbor View Hotel and Bettini Restaurant will be a festive time of gratitude and celebration, with complimentary cookies and hot cider in the lobby at check-in on the Wednesday before your grand dinner of thanks. On the day of, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride before your four-course meal and savor the taste of home while taking in the breathtaking view of Edgartown Harbor and Lighthouse.
December brings the full festive onslaught. Enjoy the lighting of the lighthouse from the verandah of the Harbor View during a special dinner; up to six of you can enjoy a 30-minute private festive horse-drawn carriage ride around Edgartown passing the beautifully decorated homes, picturesque meadows overlooking the ocean, Eel Pond, historic Edgartown village dressed in garland and bows and Edgartown Harbor. Cozy up with hot cider and a warm throw during this festive time of year.
Then the New Year's Eve celebration. I've seen the four-course dinner menu for this New Year's Eve in the Bettini restaurant, and it's delish! Add to your revelry (or recover from it) with packages such as the Wellness Package, Military/Veteran Appreciation Package, the Romance/Anniversary, Wine-Tasting or Luxe Breakfast Package. Even AAA has a special offer for you since the hotel four-diamond credited by them.
I have much more information for your Martha's Vineyard holiday. And while we're on the subject, let's discuss the Vineyard for your next summertime seaside getaway. That's when the island really shines.
'til next week