A dream luxury escape that didn't require a passport or a long-haul flight

Hi ,

Last month we checked off a bucket list item - a stay at a triple 5 star hotel. The best part? It’s less than a 10 minute drive from our house.

We recently stayed at The Umstead Hotel & Spa in Cary, North Carolina—and let me tell you, this place redefined what five-star travel feels like.

There are no overwater bungalows or dramatic cliffside views here. Instead, The Umstead wraps you in something even rarer: stillness. Surrounded by forest, filled with original art, and anchored by a 5-start spas, this luxury hotel invites you to slow down in all the right ways.

We’re sharing our full experience in today’s blog post, including:

✨ The unexpectedly magical pool and cabana vibes
🌲 Nature-inspired spa and wellness amenities
🍽️ Our unforgettable dinner at the Forbes Five-Star restaurant, Herons
🌅 Quiet sunrise moments with espresso and birdsong
💡 Why this hidden gem is perfect for a romantic getaway, wellness escape, or solo reset

📍 All of this… just 10 minutes from Raleigh and 15 minutes from RDU Airport.

👉 Click here to read the full review and discover why The Umstead is one of North Carolina’s best-kept luxury secrets.

We hope it inspires your next getaway.

Caroline