Our family has a number of challenges when finding accommodations when travelling. There are six of us, with kids ages 4 to 16. A couple of us have celiac, so we can't eat out and appreciate being able to cook. And I have perfume sensitivities, which can leave me ill for days after very little exposure - a true challenge to accommodate! But sometimes travel is necessary; we came to Mt. Ranier for the memorial of a beloved relative. And we are so grateful to have been able to stay here.
After communicating my needs, our family was wonderfully accommodated by our gracious hosts - especially my sensitivities. My sheets were washed without fragrance, perfumed products were put out of the way (but since I tolerate essential oils, those products were kept out, which was pleasant), the house was aired out before we arrived - and the owner even ensured we had an air purifier to clean the air of any lingering fragrances or wildfire smoke. There was wildfire smoke in the area at the time, but having a place to retreat to with clean air meant I could recover from the worst effects quickly.
On top of our special needs, the property was just perfect for us. Everyone had enough space for sleeping. The dining table was spacious, and we could all eat together. The kitchen had what we needed to prepare meals and eat. The living room was cozy, with a large table that was good for holding our gear or spreading out a jigsaw puzzle in the evenings. The wifi was reliable, no issues at all. We didn't have a chance to try out the hot tub this time, but that was available as well.
As for location - the area is gorgeous at this time of year! Red bushes and shrubs and maples between conifers over hills and mountainsides throughout Mount Ranier National Park. Hills with mist. Gorgeous.
We braved the smoke briefly to get a coffee at the Mountain Goat cafe, just two blocks away - walking past elk and ravens (not crows!) on our way there. The cafe had good beans and interesting teas like an urban Seattle cafe - but big servings, drizzles, and whipped cream like a rural cafe - the best of both worlds! (hey, I like my coffee!)
The trip reminded my husband and I that we haven't taken the kids to Mount Ranier for a vacation in almost a decade - not in the youngest one's life! We're hoping to be able to come back and stay here for a longer visit when we can just kick back and enjoy ourselves.