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Address

http://www.rosarioresort.com
1400 Rosario Road
Eastsound , WA 98280
(360) 376-2222

Review

It’s impossible not to relax at the historic Rosario Resort. One of the nicest places on Orcas Island, it’s likely that it also has the most history behind it. Built by Robert Moran and completed in 1906, it was known as "the showplace of the San Juan Islands."
It’s impossible not to relax at the historic Rosario Resort. One of the nicest places on Orcas Island, it’s likely that it also has the most history behind it. Built by Robert Moran and completed in 1906, it was known as "the showplace of the San Juan Islands." Moran had relocated to Orcas Island at the age of 46, after doctors gave him only a few years to live due to stress. He recovered on the island and lived to be 86 years old.

The five-story Moran Mansion, which overlooks East Sound was built with 54 and included a bowling alley in the basement. While the bowling alley is no longer there, the mansion still has the original 13-by-40-foot indoor pool. The second floor features a 1,972-pipe organ that was the largest ever built in a private home. Moran liked to play the organ every morning at 7 a.m. to wake up his household for the day. Unfortunately, Moran couldn’t play a note. To learn more about the mansion, take one of the history tours that are offered.

The resort offers 127 spacious and deluxe guest rooms, either in the building adjacent to the mansion or in units high on the hillside facing the water. Many people arrive by boat or seaplane at the resort’s marina.

The resort’s spa offers facials, massages and yoga classes, but Moran didn’t need yoga to relax. Just walking along the paths near the mansion and staring at the turquoise water and trees is more than enough to do the trick. Elegant meals are served in the Orcas Room, which features an accompanying pianist Wednesday through Saturday evenings. Dining is also available in the Compass Room or in the Morgan Lounge. More casual options include a deli near the marina.

One needs at least two days to soak up all of the history and activities at Rosario. But even if you only stay for two hours, you will leave a little richer in history and a little more refreshed.
Written By: Diana Wurn
On: 7/31/2000

Directions

From the Orcas Island ferry landing drive 9 miles on Orcas Road to Eastsound. Continue through town and 1 mile further, turn right onto Olga Road and follow toward Moran State Park. After about 2-1/2 miles turn right on Rosario Road and follow the winding street to the end, where you will see the mansion.

Features

Smoke-free

Map

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