Wintering in Bed and Breakfasts and Inns
T.S. Elliott said that April was the cruelest month, but then again, perhaps he had both January and February off, unlike us. Yes, those two months have to be the cruelest of all.
However, before you head back to bed refusing to come out, remember this: the weekends are still yours, and there is no better way to get rid of those winter doldrums than a change of scenery. Even if you are pressed for time, you can still get away from it all without getting away too far at a bed and breakfast and inn.
Here are just a few to get you in the vacationing mood.
Blackberry Farm
Understated elegance is probably the best phrase used to describe Blackberry Farm, one of Tennessee’s best kept secrets. This 4,200-acre regal resort-slash-inn situated in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, in Walland, Tenn., was originally used for corporate retreats until the early 1990s. Today the destination is a favorite among foodies and wine aficionados. Even those who are just looking to relax agree with the slogan, “Easy to Get To. Hard to Leave.” Just wait until you see the views from the rocking chairs – you may never leave your seat.
Inn on Biltmore Estate
Okay, so you are not a direct or indirect descendant of the Vanderbilts, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t live like one, at least for the weekend. The Inn on Biltmore Estate, in Asheville, N.C., is exactly that – located on the grounds within viewing distance from the estate. Completed in 2003, the 8,000-acre inn, with Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, has everything that you would expect from a Four Diamond AAA property. With 204 guestrooms and nine suites, you can forget about your hectic life for a while as you relax in style.
Eight Gables Inn
What do you think of when you hear the phrase rustic mountain retreat? Does your mind conjure up images of you sipping a drink in front of a warm fire in the fireplace? Perhaps you think about enjoying the cool, crisp mornings, the type you can only experience in the mountains. Whatever the image may be, Eight Gables Inn in Gatlinburg, Tenn., is an ideal place to bring the images to life.
This intimate inn is located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains is minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Amenities found in the 20 guest rooms include wooded views and sitting areas. A few of the accommodations even have fireplaces. After enjoying a hearty, five-course breakfast, you can relax and soak in the scenery on the wrap around porch, or walk it off by exploring the gardens. With its location, you are never too far from outdoor activities, such as whitewater rafting, hiking, fly-fishing, and golfing.
Greyfield Inn
If you are a Seinfeld fan, you probably remember the chant, “serenity now”. In fact, if you find yourself repeating that phrase, it’s a sure sign that you need some time away. Imagine a place without telephones or televisions. Even laptops, Blackberries and cell phones are not allowed. Complete solitude (doesn’t it sound wonderful) can be found at Greyfield Inn. Located on Cumberland Island, the largest of Georgia’s barrier islands, is somewhat of an anomaly itself. The 20-room inn is the only accommodation here. The island was designated a National Seashore in the early 1970s to preserve its historic, scenic and natural qualities, and more importantly, protect it from development. There is a restriction on the number of daily visitors allowed, and only 30 residents who live there year around. You come to Cumberland Island for the beauty and solitude.
The South is lucky to have many bed and breakfasts and inns. If you are looking for one in a certain location, visit BedandBreakfast.com, Bed & Breakfast Inns Online, or BandBFinder.com to find one suited for your needs.
Related Stories
POSTED IN: Accomodation, Bed and Breakfasts, Southern Byways, Things to See in Georgia, Things to See in North Carolina, Things to See in Tennessee, Vacation
0 opinions for Wintering in Bed and Breakfasts and Inns
No one has left a comment yet. You know what this means, right? You could be first!
Have an opinion? Leave a comment: