My first Riparide adventure was spent with me, myself, and I. Fir Cottage could not have been more perfect. This little cottage feels like a cozy hug sitting on the expanse of 40 acres offering sunsets, wildlife, and a fire pit. The big plants and beautiful decor inside were very welcoming and it just felt like home from the moment I walked in.

Stepping outside of the quietness of the cottage I made my way to Devils Punchbowl on Lake Crescent - a short 45-minute drive. A quick and easy stroll on the Spruce Railroad Trail through the mossy greenery of the PNW takes you to this scenic, watery, blue bowl. Afterwards, I needed a beer and a snack so I stopped at Barhop Brewing and Pizzas in Port Angeles resting right along the Straight of Juan De Fuca across from Canada. Coming back to Fir Cottage after my rainy hike was the idyllic ending to my nearby adventures.

This area of the Olympic Peninsula has so much to offer - hikes, waterfalls, lakes, great restaurants, the peace and quiet of the country, the slowed-down pace we all can benefit from, and if you're up for a little longer of a drive - you can even visit the Pacific Ocean. The PNW vibes run deep here and it's a perfect area to drink it all in.