Ignacio Maza, EVP of Signature Travel Network, recently visited Cape Cod, where he stayed at Chatham Bars Inn. Here is his report.
After being trapped in my New York apartment for months, I was thrilled to travel to Cape Cod and spend a few days by the sea at Chatham Bars Inn in Cape Cod, MA. This charming, family-friendly resort is set on 25 acres of rolling lawns and gardens overlooking the Atlantic. The site is fantastic, and many guestrooms have views of the ocean. The resort consists of the historic inn, originally built in 1914 and meticulously restored, as well as over 20 stand-alone cottages with guestrooms and suites spread over the estate. Chatham Bars Inn has an elegant, easy atmosphere and is open year-round. The vibe on property is sophisticated, yet warm and welcoming. If the Kennedys invited you to their compound in Hyannis Port, it would feel like Chatham Bars Inn.
I am happy to report that Cape Cod is enjoying a booming demand. While I visited in August, restaurants in the region were full, shops were busy, and resorts like Chatham Bars Inn have had high occupancy all summer long. Future reservations for fall 2020 and beyond look strong, so now is the time to book your clients.
Guestrooms and Suites: There are over a dozen locations and room categories to choose from, so it’s essential to do your homework and find the accommodations that will work best for your clients. In the main inn building, I recommend the ocean-view guestrooms and suites on the second floor, which have oversized balconies. Elsewhere on property, I loved the cottage guestrooms and suites with ocean views and terraces. For a more secluded and serene environment, stay in the adults-only spa suites, built over the resort’s wellness complex. Guestrooms offer a classic, comfortable, elegant décor, and most categories have fireplaces — a welcome touch. For guests who expect the best, book either the Presidential Suite in the Main Inn, or the Owner’s Cottage — a four-bedroom freestanding home shaped like an octagon, with wonderful views of the sea.
Chatham Bars Inn resort consists of the historic inn, originally built in 1914 and meticulously restored, as well as over 20 stand-alone cottages.
Facilities: The main draw of the resort is its shoreside setting on a sound, overlooking North Beach Island. A complimentary shuttle takes guests from the property’s pier to a natural sanctuary with beaches that go on for miles. Chatham Bars Inn has a main swimming pool, popular with children, as well as an adults-only spa pool. In season, book a beachfront or pool cabanas ahead to avoid disappointment.
Dining: Chatham Bars Inn is famous for the quality and variety of its cuisine. In fact, many in-town residents dine regularly on property, making advance reservations a must. Choose from the casual Beach House Grill or Sacred Cod, fine dining in Stars restaurant, or the popular Veranda, offering all-day dining. On certain days of the week, the resort offers dinner on the lawn, overlooking the ocean. As you might imagine, seafood and shellfish entrées are outstanding. In addition to these dining venues, Chatham Bars Inn owns a farm in Brewster, a few miles away. This is where the resort grows fresh fruits and vegetables served on property. Every two weeks, in season, Chatham Bars Inn offers a special “Farm Event” which is a delicious al fresco four-course dinner, served family-style in big tables on the lawn. Dining under the stars at the farm was my favorite dining experience during my stay.
Activities and Experiences: On property, enjoy stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Guests can also go whale watching, exploring the coast, or enjoying a day trip to nearby Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket in one of the resort’s vintage boats. A short walk away is the town of Chatham, a pleasant community with a rich past. Wander along Main Street’s shops and don’t miss Buffy’s — Chatham’s best ice cream. The property also offers tennis, including classes with a resident pro, as well as a nine-hole golf course next door.
Lasting memory: Although Chatham Bars Inn is very special, what stood out for me were the staff on property — warm, caring, and helpful. A team of 600-plus professionals, almost three staff per key in high season, delivers a high level of service from the heart to every guest.
The Chatham Bars Inn is set on 25 acres of rolling lawns and gardens overlooking the Atlantic.
Current COVID-19 policy: In compliance with local health guidelines, guests must wear masks while indoors in public areas and restaurants. Once you are seated at your table, you can take the mask off.
Your resources: CBI is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and is also represented through J.MAK. For help with your next reservation, contact leisure sales manager Katherine Hawk (khawk@chatham barsinn.com).
Related Articles
Las Vegas Luxury: Safe and Suite Getaways