Nestled in the heart of the scenic Kenai Peninsula, Salted Roots Cabins offers a unique retreat that perfectly blends rustic charm with modern comforts. During our recent visit to Seward, Alaska, we had the pleasure of staying at these quaint cabins, including the newly introduced seaside cabins, which provided an unparalleled experience of solitude and natural beauty. Here's a comprehensive review of our stay, highlighting why Salted Roots is an ideal choice for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or even a picturesque venue for a small wedding in Alaska.
Location and First Impressions
Salted Roots Alaska are strategically located at Lowell Point, just a stone's throw from the waters of Resurrection Bay. This location not only offers direct access to a private beach but also lies in proximity to Seward’s top attractions, including the Alaska Sealife Center and the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the proximity to Chugach National Forest enhance the cabins' appeal, making them a gateway to numerous Alaskan adventures.
Upon arrival, the unique architecture of the frame cabins immediately caught our attention. Each cabin, including the newer seaside ones, boasts an architectural style that respects its rustic roots while offering modern amenities. The addition of the Greenhouse Suites and the charming seaside cabins adds a touch of elegance and luxury, catering to guests who appreciate a blend of rusticity and comfort.
Property Overview and Accommodations
Salted Roots features twelve distinct accommodations, each crafted to provide an unforgettable stay. From rustic A-frame cabins and seaside cottages to innovative Greenhouse Mini Suites and a creatively converted bus, each unit is uniquely designed to enhance the natural beauty of its surroundings while providing comfort and style.
A-Frame Cabins
These classic structures are a nod to traditional Alaskan architecture, offering cozy interiors and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Ideal for couples or small families, each cabin features warm, wooden interiors and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The A-Frame Cabins are equipped with a spacious bathroom and tub which is nice to relax after an adventurous day. The kitchenette invite to cook your dinner and afterwards slow down in front of the fire stove.
Seaside Cabins
Positioned to offer stunning views of Resurrection Bay, these rustic seaside cabins provide direct access to private beaches, where guests can relax to the sound of the waves or watch for marine life. The seaside cabins are especially popular, offering enhanced amenities and expansive decks that overlook the water. During high tide it even seems that you are in a floating water house cabin.
Greenhouse Mini Suites
A unique offering at Salted Roots, these Greenhouse Suites are designed with wall-to-wall glass panels that not only invite the outside in but also utilize passive solar to keep the space warm. These suites are perfect for those who appreciate a connection with nature and a bit of modern design.
Retro Bus and Bayview Cottage
For a touch of whimsy and nostalgia, the converted Retro Bus offers an unconventional yet charming accommodation option, complete with all the necessary modern amenities. The Bayview Cottages, on the other hand, provides a more traditional lodging experience with added privacy and comfort.
Community Spaces & Social Infrastructure
Salted Roots is more than just a place to sleep; it's a community hub designed to foster interaction and shared experiences among guests. The property features several multi-purpose community spaces that cater to both independent travelers and large groups.
The Flamingo Lounge: Newly introduced, this vibrant space serves as the social heart of the property. Here, guests can enjoy live music, local seafood, and hand-curated charcuterie boards in an old bar transformed into a chic cocktail lounge. It's a perfect spot for relaxing after a day of adventures or mingling with other travelers.
Open Areas and Firepit: Throughout the property, open spaces and a communal firepit area invite guests to gather, share stories, and enjoy the serene environment. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows under the stars or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these areas are designed to enhance the communal experience.
Dining and Social Spaces
Salted Roots Cabins doesn’t just excel in accommodations; it also offers excellent dining and social opportunities. The introduction of the new lounge, aptly named the Flamingo Lounge, offers a vibrant space for live music and socializing, echoing the atmosphere of “Seward’s living room.” This cocktail lounge, located in what was once an old bar, serves up a variety of local seafood and hand-curated charcuterie boards, making it the perfect place for an evening relax.
Activities and Experiences
Given its prime location on the Kenai Peninsula, Salted Roots is the perfect base for engaging in all sorts of Alaskan adventures. From wildlife cruises that depart from nearby Seward to summer dog sled rides in the surrounding areas, there's no shortage of activities. The proximity to beautiful national parks like the Kenai Fjords and scenic communities ensures that outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers have plenty to explore.
For those interested in more structured retreats, the cabins also host yoga retreats and are an idyllic spot for an adventure elopement or a small wedding. The unique accommodations provide a picturesque backdrop for wedding photos, especially with the majestic mountain peaks and lush forests surrounding the area.
At Salted Roots Cabins there is also an onsite sauna which can be used at your pleasure and availability.
Getting to Salted Roots Cabins
From Anchorage: Salted Roots Cabins is approximately 127 miles from Anchorage, making it accessible via a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive along the Seward Highway. This route is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including views of the Turnagain Arm, snow-capped mountains, and the chance to spot wildlife such as eagles and beluga whales. The drive itself is part of the adventure, offering numerous stops for photography, wildlife viewing, and enjoying local eateries. Alternatively, for those preferring not to drive, there are coach services and private shuttles available from Anchorage that provide comfortable and reliable transportation directly to Seward.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Salted Roots Cabins largely depends on what you're looking to do during your stay. It is open year-round, so you will be able to accommodate your favorite season. The summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest weather, long daylight hours, and the full bloom of local flora. This season is ideal for hiking, fishing, and wildlife cruises. However, for those interested in quieter times and don't mind cooler weather, the shoulder seasons of May and September provide fewer crowds and the opportunity to witness the spring awakening or the spectacular fall colors.
Winter visits, from November through March, are perfect for those looking to enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and the serene winter landscape. While it's colder, the winter scenery can be breathtakingly beautiful, offering a different perspective on the rugged Alaskan environment.
Recommended Length of Stay
To truly appreciate all that Salted Roots Cabins and the surrounding area have to offer, a minimum stay of three to four days is recommended. This allows enough time to explore the local attractions such as the Kenai Fjords National Park, participate in outdoor activities like hiking in the Chugach National Forest, and still have time to relax and enjoy the amenities at the cabins. For those with more time, extending your stay to a week would provide a more comprehensive experience, enabling deeper exploration of the Kenai Peninsula, including day trips to nearby islands, and engaging in local community events and activities.
This duration also allows for flexibility in case of unpredictable weather, ensuring that you can reschedule outdoor adventures for the best possible conditions. Additionally, staying longer contributes to a more meaningful connection with the place, offering a more relaxed pace to immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty and tranquility of Seward.
Salted Roots Cabins truly encapsulates the essence of a multifaceted boutique inn, catering to independent guests looking for a blend of adventure, tranquility, and Alaskan hospitality. Whether it’s lounging by the private beach, participating in a yoga retreat, or simply enjoying the rustic charm of the cabins, Salted Roots offers a memorable and immersive experience. It stands out not only as a beautiful retreat but also as a part of the blending of histories in the Seward area, making every stay a unique journey through Alaska's rich tapestry of natural and cultural heritage.
In just a few short years, Matt & KellyAnn, the visionaries behind this second small business venture, have created a destination that truly embodies the spirit of Seward - making Salted Roots Cabins a must-visit for anyone traveling to Alaska, United States.