Perched amid the majestic White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods is a destination that effortlessly blends old-world grandeur with modern luxury. From its storied past and striking architecture to its sweeping mountain views and refined amenities, this historic resort offers an experience that feels both timeless and indulgent. In this review, I’ll share my impressions of what makes the Omni Mount Washington Hotel a standout choice for travelers seeking elegance, adventure, and a touch of New England charm.
The Legacy of the Omni Mount Washington Hotel
The Omni Mount Washington Hotel, a cornerstone of New England history, stands as a testament to the vision and ambition of its founder, Joseph Stickney. Built in 1902, this grand hotel was designed to be a luxurious retreat for the elite, boasting opulent architecture and world-class amenities that rivaled the finest hotels of its era. Stickney’s dream was to create a resort that not only catered to the affluent but also embodied the grandeur and elegance of the Gilded Age. His vision came to life in the form of a sprawling estate that quickly became a beloved getaway for notable figures and discerning travelers.
The hotel’s storied past is rich with historical milestones and notable guests, including presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries. The most significant historical event hosted by the hotel was the Bretton Woods Conference in 1944, where delegates from 44 Allied nations convened to establish the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. This pivotal moment in history not only solidified the hotel’s place in global affairs but also underscored its reputation as a venue of significance and prestige.
Mt Washington Hotel
Beyond its historical significance, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel has undergone numerous renovations and restorations to preserve its architectural integrity and charm while incorporating modern comforts. The meticulous care taken to maintain its original beauty is evident in every detail, from the grand lobby with its ornate decor to the meticulously landscaped grounds. This seamless blend of historical preservation and contemporary luxury makes the Omni Mount Washington Hotel a unique and captivating destination for today’s travelers.
First Impressions: Arrival and Atmosphere
Driving up to the Omni Mount Washington Hotel is an experience in itself. As you approach the grand entrance, the hotel’s imposing presence against the backdrop of the White Mountains takes your breath away. The sprawling estate, with its red-roofed main building and expansive porches, exudes a sense of timeless elegance that immediately transports you to a bygone era. The meticulously manicured lawns and gardens add to the charm, creating a picturesque setting that invites you to explore and unwind.
Upon entering the hotel, you are greeted by the warm and welcoming staff, who exemplify the highest standards of hospitality. The grandeur of the lobby, with its high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and plush furnishings, sets the tone for the rest of your stay. The ambiance is one of refined sophistication, with a touch of old-world charm that makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into a different era. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the decor, from the elegant chandeliers to the tasteful artwork adorning the walls.
Mount Washington Hotel Lobby Fireplace
Each room and corridor tells a story, with carefully preserved architectural features and historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into the hotel’s illustrious past. I very much enjoyed looking at the old pictures of the hotels and their guests. The atmosphere of the hotel is inviting and awe-inspiring, making it easy to see why the Omni Mount Washington Hotel has remained a beloved destination for over a century. Be warned however since we went in the “off-season” there was a lot of construction and “reimagining” going on in the historic part of the building. It did not bother us or prevent us from enjoying our stay there.
Rooms and Suites: Classic Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
The accommodations at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel are a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Each room and suite is thoughtfully designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing retreat, with careful attention to detail that reflects the hotel’s storied history. From the moment you step into your room, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined sophistication, with tasteful decor and high-quality furnishings that create a sense of timeless elegance.
The hotel offers a variety of room types to suit different preferences and needs, from standard guest rooms to spacious suites. Each room is appointed with plush bedding, fine linens, and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and well-appointed bathrooms with premium toiletries. The decor is a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements, with rich fabrics, elegant furnishings, and thoughtful touches that add to the overall sense of luxury and comfort.
Presidential Wing King Room
For those seeking an extra level of indulgence, the hotel’s suites offer additional space and amenities, including separate living areas, fireplaces, and private balconies with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. These suites provide a serene and private retreat, perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a day of exploring the hotel’s many amenities and the natural beauty of the White Mountains. Whether you choose a standard room or a luxurious suite, you can be assured of a comfortable and memorable stay that combines the best of historical charm and modern convenience.
Our room was in the newer part of the hotel, The Presidential Wing, which was opened in 2019. When staying in the Presidential wing you have access to the club room which offers complimentary continental breakfast in the morning and snacks, wine and beer in the evenings. All day you can get water, coffee, soft drinks and munchie snacks.
Club Room Happy Hour Snacks
Dining Options at Omni Mount Washington Hotel
The dining options at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel are as diverse and refined as the hotel itself, offering a variety of culinary experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. From casual dining to fine dining, each restaurant and bar in the hotel complex provides a unique and memorable dining experience, with menus that showcase the finest ingredients and culinary expertise.
Main Dining Room
The 1902 Restaurant is the main dining room, with its grand chandeliers, elegant decor, and sweeping views of the mountains, offers a fine dining experience that is both sophisticated and inviting. The menu features a selection of gourmet dishes that highlight the best of local and seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared by the hotel’s talented chefs. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner for two or a celebratory meal with family and friends, the Main Dining Room provides an unforgettable culinary experience that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Mount Washington Hotel 1902 Restaurant
Casual Dining
For a more casual dining experience, the hotel offers several other options, including the Bretton Arms Dining Room and Stickney’s Restaurant. The Bretton Arms Dining Room, located in a charming inn adjacent to the main hotel, offers a cozy and intimate setting with a menu that features hearty New England cuisine and comfort food favorites. Stickney’s Restaurant (currently under rennovation), located within the hotel, offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere with a menu that includes a variety of American and international dishes, as well as a selection of craft beers and fine wines.
Located just down the road from the Omni Mount Washington Hotel, Fabyan’s Station Restaurant & Lounge offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere steeped in local history. Housed in a beautifully restored former train station, the restaurant pays homage to its railroad roots with vintage décor and a cozy, rustic charm. Guests can enjoy hearty New England fare from burgers, tacos and sandwiches to comforting classics alongside a great selection of local brews and cocktails. During the busy seasons the hotel offers shuttles to this restaurant which is part of the Omni resort. Also in the main restaurant a train runs along a track above the diners! It was the “feature” that made us want to check out this restaurant as we both love trains and toys.
Fabyan’s Station
Bars and Lounges
In addition to its restaurants, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel also offers several bars and lounges where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink and light snacks. The Rosebrook Bar, located in the main lobby, offers a stylish and sophisticated setting with a menu that includes craft cocktails, fine wines, and a selection of small plates. The Cave, a speakeasy-style bar located in the basement of the hotel, offers a unique and atmospheric setting with a menu that includes classic cocktails and a selection of beers and wines. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a casual meal, or a relaxing drink, the dining options at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.
The Cave Bar at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel
Spa and Wellness Services
The Omni Mount Washington Hotel in New Hampshire offers a range of spa and wellness services that provide the perfect opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, and pamper yourself during your stay. The hotel’s luxurious spa, located within the main building, offers a serene and tranquil setting where you can escape the stresses of everyday life and indulge in a variety of treatments and therapies designed to promote relaxation and well-being. NOTE: The spa is being “reimagined” at this time, however they have temporarily moved it to the Presidential wing off of the Club Room so all services are still available. The spa should reopen at the end of April 2026.
Spa Services
The spa menu includes a wide range of services, from massages and facials to body treatments and wellness rituals. Each treatment is designed to provide a personalized and holistic experience, using high-quality products and techniques that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. The skilled and experienced therapists at the spa are dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that each guest leaves feeling refreshed and revitalized. We both chose a Swedish massage and I have to say it was one of the best most relaxing messages I have ever had. The attention to detail and the adjustable massage bed elevated the relaxation.
Wellness Activities
In addition to its spa services, the hotel also offers a range of wellness facilities and activities designed to promote physical and mental well-being. The fitness center, located within the main building, offers a variety of state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, including cardio machines, weight training equipment, and a dedicated area for yoga and stretching. The hotel also has an indoor pool right next to the gym. The hotel also offers a range of wellness classes and activities, including yoga, meditation, and guided hikes, providing guests with the opportunity to stay active and maintain their fitness routine during their stay.
Mt Washington Hotel Fitness Center
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a luxurious spa treatment, stay active with a workout or wellness class, or simply relax and unwind in a serene and tranquil setting, the spa and wellness services at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel provide the perfect opportunity to enhance your overall well-being and make the most of your stay.
Activities and Attractions Nearby the Mount Washington Hotel
The Omni Mount Washington Hotel is ideally located in the heart of the White Mountains, offering easy access to a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area, engage in outdoor sports and activities, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Heated outdoor pool
Hiking Trails
One of the most popular activities in the area is hiking, with a wide range of trails that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From easy and leisurely walks to challenging and strenuous hikes, the White Mountains offer a variety of trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty and provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hotel’s concierge can provide information and recommendations on the best hiking trails in the area, as well as guided hikes and tours for those who prefer a more structured experience.
Outdoor Activities
In addition to hiking, the area offers a wide range of other outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter months, and golfing, fishing, tennis and mountain biking in the summer months. On the property is a Nordic Center which turns into the Golf Center in the summer months. We caught them in “mud season” so they were just turning things over for golf season. There are two golf courses on the property a 9-hole and an 18-hole, thus my husband is already planning our trip back in the warmer months!
Nordic Center and Golf Center
The Bretton Woods Ski Resort, located just a short distance from the hotel, offers a range of ski and snowboard trails that cater to different skill levels, as well as a variety of other winter activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing. The hotel’s concierge can provide information and recommendations on the best activities and attractions in the area, as well as arrange for equipment rentals and guided tours.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
For those looking to explore the cultural and historical attractions of the region, the area offers a variety of museums, galleries, and historical sites that provide a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the White Mountains. The Mount Washington Cog Railway, located just a short distance from the hotel, offers a unique and scenic journey to the summit of Mount Washington, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape and an opportunity to learn about the history and geology of the region. We had planned to do this while we were there but we were blessed with lots of rain and fog – we actually never even saw the mountain behind the hotel! It’s on our list for next time.
Conclusion: Why Choose Omni Mount Washington Hotel
The Omni Mount Washington Hotel is a destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience, blending old-world grandeur with modern luxury in a setting that is both picturesque and serene. From its storied past and striking architecture to its refined amenities and exceptional service, the hotel provides a level of elegance and sophistication that is hard to match.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a luxurious spa treatment, enjoy a gourmet meal, or explore the natural beauty of the White Mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel offers a wide range of experiences and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. The hotel’s rich history and timeless charm, combined with its modern comforts and amenities, create a unique and captivating atmosphere that makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking elegance, adventure, and a touch of New England charm.
In conclusion, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel is a gem in the heart of Bretton Woods, offering a level of luxury and sophistication that is truly exceptional. With its stunning setting, rich history, and diverse range of amenities and activities, the hotel provides an experience that is both timeless and indulgent.
If you are interested in visiting The Omni Mount Washington Hotel – get in touch! I’d love to help you explore northern New Hampshire – my home state!
Author
Travel Advisor
Suzanne Poirier
