Cape escape
WEQUASSETT OFFERS WELCOMING RETREAT ON SHORES OF PLEASANT BAY
Ijust got back from my Cape Cod family compound. It's nestled along the shore of Pleasant Bay, woodsy with sweeping ocean views. All 27 acres are dotted with colorful gardens and whitewash and shingle cottages. Everyone on the staff — from the gardener to the server to the runabout ready to zip me around in a golf cart — greets me by name. How blessed am I to have this family escape?
OK, so maybe the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club isn't actually my personal family compound. But it sure felt that way when my husband and I stayed there for a few early summer days. From our sun-soaked room — complete with our own outdoor fireplace and lounging area— to the sprawling grounds, to the exquisite dining and seemingly endless activities, the Wequassett offered us so much.
Within a day it was clear why the Wequassett is the only Forbes FiveStar Resort on Cape Cod (among other honors). The grounds were impeccable. The staff was friendly, but never overbearing. From housekeeping to management, everyone greeted me warmly and offered assistance when warranted. From arrival to goodbye, guests feel welcome, and as if they are in their own family getaway.
While the Wequassett is not small — you’ll find 110 rooms on those 27 acres, along with two pools, restaurants, conference areas, a kids’ program with its own adorable building and pirate-based water playground, tennis courts, water sports, a sprawling beach, breathtaking wedding and special party facilities and more — it feels intimate.
Part of that is the flora and fauna. Meander along the walking paths that take you by the quaint cottageinspired buildings that are home to the guest rooms, the green with pops of color offsetting the blue ocean and green marshland. Every time we headed out anywhere, we just had to walk — and take the long way.
There’s more, though. While guests could easily tuck down there, there’s a wonderful world right past the shore; one that needs to be explored. Wequassett management makes that easy by setting up many experiences.
Their boat that shuttles back and forth to Nauset Beach is a great example. Your captain will take you over — pointing out historic spots as you go — and drop you off on the ocean side of Pleasant Bay on a beach accessible only by boat. No need to schlep; the resort will bring along beach chairs and towels for you, and even pack you a picnic lunch if you desire.
The resort can also set you up with the Chatham
Shellfish Co. for an amazing outing that takes you down the river to the company's oyster farm. There, you'll not just learn about oystering but pick out some of your own, head back to shore and have them shucked for you and served with champagne in a seaside fisherman's shack.
You can also poke around downtown Chatham, where shopping is as far from chain store as you can get, food choices are plentiful and the vibe is true Cape Cod. For a local touch, stop in at the Chatham Squire for a drink and maybe even some local tales.
You can take it all in as a grounds guest at the Wequassett, too, by attending the 14th annual Cape Cod Jazz Festival there. Performances take place on the Garden Terrace overlooking Pleasant Bay beginning at 8:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday evening through August. Cocktails and a light menu are available throughout the evening, and you can soak in the music and ambience, and even dance under the stars.
At the Wequassett, tennis lessons are available, as are sailboats, paddleboards and more. You can dine (or cocktail) alfresco or indoors, and even sit and take in an oceanside
wedding (the setup is so perfect you can spy on it all without ever intruding).
Our last day there, my husband and I were eating lunch and talking about our soon-to-be-born first grandchild. Moments later, our waitress approached us with a wrapped gift: a plush manatee stuffed animal and a card congratulating us. I found out later the resort has a wealth of gifts tucked away and staff is empowered to present them when the opportunity strikes.
I've traveled the world visiting incredible spots, and I have to say the Wequassett is one of the most beautiful I've visited. Learn more at wequassett. com.