On 80 beautiful oceanfront acres, atop a dramatically landscaped hill above the Atlantic, this sprawling Roosevelt-era resort has the crisp, classic white-washed New England appeal that inspired the Kennedys—and countless other artists and celebs—to anchor here. Since 1914, this has been the bellwether of Cape-Cod comfort and a catwalk for summer fashion, though its importance as a gauge for social status has receded over the years. The hotel has had to bolster its commercial edge in order to survive in today's market, but an air of the Age of Travel is still evident in this period charmer.
Since the last inspection, new owners—investors—have moved in, providing deep pockets and forward thinking. Their first steps toward improving the place include a raft of new amenities in the guest rooms and some refurbishing of the public areas.
A picturesque gazebo sits on immaculately manicured grounds by the entrance, and the gardeners and landscapers deserve special praise. Porches peppered with wicker chairs
and chaise longues are popular for reading, snoozing and watching the world go by. Public areas emphasize grand turn-of-the-century style. Cabanas and umbrellas line the beach with striking color in season, and an elegant afternoon tea and wine tastings bring the elegance indoors. More than any other Cape offering, Chatham Bars blends yesteryear tradition with modern comforts—something that is missing at both the Wequassett Inn and the Ocean Edge.
The spacious airy lobby's ornate carved paneling and fluted columns make an impressive backdrop for the hotel's collection of antiques, eclectic furniture and Oriental rugs. The secluded lounge with ocean vistas has been revamped and provides a wonderful retreat, with comfortable contemporary armchairs and a glowing hearth. The expensive dining room, too, has a few new upscale appointments, and lures guests and locals alike with breakfast and dinner (in season). An evening dress code is strictly enforced. The grill offers a tasty breakfast, luncheon in season, and theme nights with bands. If not retiring to the gracious cozy tavern, guests relax in Queen Anne chairs in the smart library 
lounge.
The fitness center, heated pool with fountains, underwater music, pool cabanas with phones, sandy beach, nine-hole golf course, and four tennis courts draw adults. The clay tennis courts are especially noteworthy, as are the separate pools for children and adults. Spa treatments are a boon, adding massage, body wraps and facials to the recreational possibilities here. The children's programs are inventive enough to keep even the most plugged-in kids interested until bedtime.
The popular conference center, supplemented by additional rooms spread throughout the buildings, holds 350 people and supplies high-tech support and a substantial business center. Plasma screens and wireless Internet access in meeting rooms make this space popular with corporate groups.
Guest rooms in the inn feature traditional color schemes and well-upholstered seating in the sitting areas and 
sundecks in some. All have new dual-line phones with data ports, and new flat-screen TVs with DVD players. While the suites boast pricey Tempur-Pedic mattresses, the remainder of the accommodations have cushy pillowtop models. Wireless Internet access, ceiling fans, minibars and safes are standard. Cottage rooms are scattered beautifully over the rolling grounds and along the private beach. These have porches and sitting areas, two-poster pine beds, hand-painted furniture and walls, and fine water views. In some, refrigerators impinge on sitting areas, and the quality of fittings runs the gamut from acceptable furniture to deluxe bed linens and bath amenities.
Room service never stops. Turndown service adds a special touch. Pets are not welcome here.
The staff is helpful at this appealing resort, making it an ideal spot for families and couples alike.
