The Best Room At...Gurney's Newport
Can one Newport hotel really have it all? If you're looking to check boxes that include ample outdoor space, the area's only outdoor waterfront saltwater pool, fine dining, a top-of-the-line spa, and spacious accommodations, then your answer will be yes. Gurney's Newport has the unique combination of feeling like a secluded resort, yet is located just few minutes from downtown. The property also manages to walk the tightrope between being an oasis for families and children but also a place where adults can be—and feel like—adults. David Smiley, Gurney Newport's General Managers, tells T&C about his favorite room, how the property is balancing fun and safety, and his insider tips for enjoying Newport, which is, needless to say, a very T&C destination.
What do you consider the "best" room at Gurney's Newport? Why?
The Liberty Suite which fuses the benefits of a residential-feel with the allure of resort service. It's nautical, but with the modern twist. The two-level suite feels like a home-away-from-home for families traveling together, with large living and dining areas boasting high ceilings, a wet bar, and full bath. The best part? We have two private balconies overlooking Narragansett Bay and the Newport Bridge, offering breathtaking water and sunset views
What does it start at per night?
$1100 per night
How did the hotel find the balance between the fun summer vibe that Gurney's is famous for with all the necessary health precautions and regulations of the COVID era?
It is our top priority to ensure guests’ safety throughout their stay, so we've implemented rigorous cleaning protocols, property-wide implementation of PPE, and hand sanitizing stations throughout. We feel fortunate that here at Gurney’s Newport our expansive resort grounds grant lots of outdoor space, both allowing our guests to naturally practice social distancing and enjoy outdoor activities and dining experiences. In keeping with the true essence of summer, we placed an even larger emphasis on water sports, boating, and yachting given our prime location on a state-of-the-art marina. Of course, we are enforcing the use of masks and social distancing, yet summer was still alive with the elevated outdoor experiences amongst this stunning waterfront atmosphere.
How would you describe Newport? What makes it different from, say, the Hamptons or Martha's Vineyard?
One of the oldest resort towns in America, Newport is a beautiful seaside city on Aquidneck Island. Just one and half hours from Boston and three and half hours from New York City by car, Newport—also known as “The City by the Sea”— is an easy escape for those craving culture, sea air, and relaxing scenery. While the Hamptons and Martha’s Vineyard also offer incredible coastal atmospheres, Newport has a unique twist with its fusion of history, sailing, and charming downtown area with amazing restaurants and entertainment.
What advice do you have for parents who want to take their kids away for a weekend to Gurney's but also want it feel like a vacation for the grown-ups? Any tips?
For families, Gurney’s Newport is a pragmatic choice for our strict safety and health protocols, large accommodations, open-air experiences, and proximity to downtown. Our resort is home to Newport’s only outdoor waterfront hotel pool – we recommend that parents reserve a private cabana while children enjoy their fun in the sun and water. (And we definitely suggest parents opt for a relaxing treatment at our Sea Water Spa.) The state-of-the-art marina also allows the whole family to join in whether it's boating, sailing or other waters ports. Another great perk for families is that we are located minutes from downtown Newport. We provide complimentary bikes to our guests traveling into the city. The whole family can do things such as Horse Back Riding on the Beach, Mansion Tour, Boat Cruise of the Lighthouses, a visit to Thames Glass, and a visit to Save the Bay Explorations Center.
How would you spend the perfect day at Gurney's Newport?
What’s so special to me about Gurney’s Newport is that we offer the feel of an island escape with the convenience of being located close to all of Newport’s best attractions. The perfect day would start by breakfast on our outdoor deck overlooking Newport Harbor. It’s no secret that Newport is known for its sailing and boating, and with our prime location on a marina I love to take the boat out or go on a water sport excursion. If I’m feeling up for more of a land exploration, one of my favorite activities is going to the Cliff Walk because it combines the natural beauty of the Newport shoreline with the architectural history of Newport's Gilded Age. Then I’d indulge in a New England staple–but with a twist—by dining at The Lounge & Firepit and ordering the ‘Spicy Sriracha Lobster Roll.’ The addition of the sriracha really bring out the sweetness of the lobster meat and is my absolute favorite. After taking a dip in the saltwater pool or receiving a treatment at the Seawater Spa, I’d cap off the day with a delicious meal at our Italian hotspot, Scarpetta, overlooking the water with a glass of white wine in hand.
You Might Also Like
