Northbank Cottage is located on peaceful Samish Island in the beautiful Skagit Valley approximately an hour and a half north of Seattle Washington. Historically Samish Island was a true island separated from the Skagit River delta by shallow tidelands. Today earthen dikes hold back salt water allowing you to drive directly to Samish Island.

Northbank Cottage is the perfect central location from which to explore the surrounding Skagit Valley, Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island, the Mount Baker region, the rugged North Cascade mountains, Winthrop and the Methow Valley, Bellingham, Fairhaven and the delightful San Juan Islands.

Vancouver British Columbia and Seattle are an easy day drive away. From nearby Anacortes you can catch a ferry to the San Juan Islands and Vancouver island.

The Skagit Valley offers an incredible array of opportunities for every interest. In early April "the valley" comes alive with vibrant fields of tulips. Visitors, painters and photographers come from all over the world to participate in the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and enjoy thousands of acres of colorful tulips and daffodils.

Bike riding is popular on Samish island and in the adjacent Skagit Valley farmlands. Local kayaking in Puget Sound is exceptional. The North Cascades National Park, National Forest and National Recreation area offer outstanding day hiking opportunities as well as remote back country hiking. Mount Baker is home to the Mount Baker Ski area where snow boarders and skiers alike will find exciting runs in season.

Local bird watching is outstanding and is accented with winter visitations of snow geese and other migratory geese, birds and ducks. Soaring eagles are a common site on Samish Island. During the first week of February the town of Concrete hosts the annual Upper Skagit Bald Eagle Festival where eagle sightings are abundant. Salmon fishing is popular in season. The North Cascade Mountains are rich with wildlife including deer, elk brown bear and black bear.

In our beautiful valley you may purchase fresh seafood, organic vegetables and fruits, sample local wines and enjoy fresh raw cider in season.

For your dining pleasure the nearby towns of Edison, LaConner, Anacortes and Bellingham offer a host of gourmet restaurants and local cafes to suit every taste. Each of these towns features vibrant art galleries, great shopping, and lively nightlife.

Come stay at Northbank Cottage and enjoy the bounty of this fabulous region. For more in depth information please explore our other local interest pages using the drop down menu at the top of this page.