Seattle, Washington, is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest, and a thoroughly hip one at that. So it should come as no surprise to find that it is well equipped to handle the thousands of travelers that make their way to these parts annually, drawn by big festivals, sea breezes, business or pleasure generally. And while you might find a fair amount of traffic congestion should you even contemplate tackling the interstates any time close to rush hour, the easy solution is to find nightly succor at one of the hotels in Seattle. Of which there are many. But in addition to nation-wide chains, boutique hotels and expectedly extravagant luxury options, there’s another path worth considering: a bed & breakfast.

Despite this city’s size, there are surprisingly few inns or bed & breakfasts on offer. In fact, the Seattle Bed & Breakfast Association lists fewer than 20 for the city, and while you might stumble across a few that aren’t with the association there aren’t many. You’ll discover a handful dotting the Capitol Hill neighborhood, east of downtown, and the occasional inn or guest house in neighborhoods like Queen Anne Hill, Fremont and Greenlake, and that’s about it. Which makes a weekend stay at one of these atmospheric, usually historic, guest houses something to write home about. Look for amenities like full gourmet breakfast, in-room fireplaces, early 20th-century architecture, quiet gardens and, often, splendid views of the city.

So if you’re contemplating hotels in Seattle, but looking for something just a little special, think quaint, peaceful and cozy. Spend your days exploring this fine city, your late afternoons by a crackling fire, your nights in a pleasant residential neighborhood and your mornings.... need we mention those wonderful breakfasts again?