Portland, Oregon has long been known for its sustainability initiatives and inspiring nature, making it the perfect fit for clients who love outdoor adventure. And in the heart of the city’s downtown is Portland's newest hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Portland, which provides travelers an urban wellness escape.
As I entered the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Portland — the first Ritz-Carlton in the Pacific Northwest (and first luxury hotel in Portland) — I was greeted with a feeling of warmth and opulence. A nature-focused design flows throughout the LEED Gold-certified hotel, mimicking the ethos of the Pacific Northwest in its sophisticated guestrooms, elegant eateries and serene spa areas.
Rooms in the new hotel are spacious, comfortable and full of natural light.
Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Portland
Accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, Portland
The guest rooms and suites are comfortable, spacious and feature a neutral palette. In the Grand Deluxe Club room, I loved how the massive windows filled the room (and bathroom) with light and provided expansive views of the city — even from the large soaking tub. There was also ample seating for working or dining.
For clients wanting a V.I.P. experience, I recommend booking a Club Level room with private Club Lounge access on the 20th floor. That perk made my stay more personalized and convenient. I found the staff to be welcoming and attentive, providing exquisite service, and appreciated being able to help myself to complimentary food, snacks and beverages (including alcohol) throughout the day and evening.
Bellpine is the property’s signature restaurant, and it offers excellent city views from its location on the 20th floor.
Credit: 2024 Jason DeweyOnsite Dining Options
The property’s signature restaurant, Bellpine, is located on the hotel’s 20th floor and offers unparalleled views of downtown Portland, scenic Willamette River, Cascade Mountain Range and dense forests.
Led by Michelin-starred executive chef Pedro Almeida, the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus feature seasonal dishes sourced locally. The cuisine was just as much a feast for my eyes as it was my palate, with multilayered flavor profiles and artful presentation. My favorite was the "Forest" dessert, which looks like a mini-woodland scene.
For lighter bites, local wines, craft cocktails and coffee, I was impressed with Meadowrue, which also serves as the lobby bar. Plants and pendant lights playfully dangle from the ceiling above the bar, giving the sense of walking into a fairy forest.
The property’s Hidden Mountain Lake Infinity Pool also has incredible views.
Credit: 2024 Jason DeweySpa Sanctuary
After a day of cruising on the river, hiking to a waterfall, or tasting microbrews, I highly recommend sinking into Zen mode at the hotel's wellness areas on 19th floor. The indoor infinity pool area (one of the most beautifully designed I've ever seen) is pleasing to all the senses. Wading into the heated pool, I was lulled by the water gently flowing over the edge as I breathed in the hotel's custom rose scent and was awed by views of the city and snow-capped Mount Hood seen through the 20-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. The relaxing area also includes comfortable lounge seating and a Jacuzzi for easing tired muscles.
On the same floor, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Portland has design elements that reflect gentle rose pedals (paying homage to the city's nickname, “The City of Roses.”) Here, visitors can be pampered with massage, facial or body treatments, some of which incorporate roses. After a soothing massage, I took advantage of the steam room, sauna and relaxation lounge to deepen my downtime.
Each morning, I was grateful to work out in the impressive 4,000-square-foot modern fitness center containing Technogym professional athlete-quality equipment. I could choose from free weights of up to 100 pounds, strength machines or cardio options, in a clean, bright space. Fitness classes will be added to offerings soon.
The Ritz-Carlton, Portland showcases the essence of the Pacific Northwest through the design and decor, sustainable furnishings, locally-sourced cuisine and artwork, expansive views and access to the outdoors. Combined with excellent service, luxury accommodations, world-renowned spa treatments, this hotel is sure to be one that clients will want to return to.
