When I first arrived in Whitefish, Montana, I was pleasantly surprised. Unlike many smaller towns its size, Whitefish actually has some great amenities and accommodations—including the place I stayed, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Located just east of downtown, The Lodge was much grander than I expected…it’s actually a full-blown resort with all the amenities you’d expect—from a fine dining restaurant, luxurious accommodations, comfy common areas to a relaxing spa.
You will find plenty to do at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, whether you want to kayak, jet ski, layout by the pool, rent a boat and go water skiing, hang out on the beach, or perhaps have a cocktail at the bar while watching the sunset over the majestic Whitefish Lake.
While I was in Whitefish during the summer, I know there is a lot to do in the area during the winter as well, from downhill skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, cross country skiing, ice fishing, to snowmobiling. Or, you could just hang out by the fireplace with a warm beverage or visit the spa for a relaxing treatment.
While I would categorize it as more of a resort, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake really feels like a lodge, with lots of luxurious and comfortable furnishings, a roaring fire in the lobby, wood accents; to its taxidermy (the huge black bear in the lobby makes for a great photo opp).
I did not have an opportunity to see any rooms other than my own suite, so all I can say is that my accommodations were fabulous. My suite was very spacious and included a comfy king-size bed, desk, sitting area near a fireplace and T.V., a roomy mini-bar and a luxurious bathroom which included a large soaking tub, his/her sinks and a slate shower…all with granite and upgraded hardware. My suite was located ground-level with its own patio, which made for easy access to the pool, the beach or the lake docks. The views of the lake are just spectacular, each night I was treated to a bright and colorful sunset.
The Lodge also has a fine dining restaurant on-site, which is quite good. One evening I had a delicious Ahi entrée that was wonderfully presented. I was very impressed with the service at The Lodge, both inside and outside of the restaurant. Stace, the restaurant manager, runs an efficient ship (the restaurant is called the “Boat Club”) and tries to instill the importance of quality service in her crew. The bar is a popular place and is quite large with great views of the lake. I understand Wednesday evening is the place to be as there is live music in the bar from 6-9pm—And, all-you-can-eat seafood for only $10!
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is only five years old, and to my surprise, its family run—operated by the Averill family, 5th generation Montanans. Husband and wife, Sean and Stacey Averill, mainly handle the day-to-day operations—while Brian Averill and his wife Fabienne handle resort expansion, sales and special events. Needless to say, it’s tough to get through the front doors of the Lodge without running into at least one of the Averill family members…this probably has something to do with the great service The Lodge offers.
Here is a Resort supplied video to give you an additional perspective of the property.
