JUST INN TIME

Just because we’re finally done with Christmas and New Years Eve doesn’t mean the fun has to end, in fact, quite the contrary.  After the in-laws and the extended family have departed and the children have resumed their studies, now you can take that well deserved break from reality.  And, you don’t have to wait for summer for that special vacation; after all, summers are for the beach, while winters are for the Bed and Breakfast.

There is no need to search for the perfect spot either.  The Dandy American has done it for you by highlighting our top 10 must visit Distinguished Inns for 2012.  Our criteria was simple, each Inn had to be attractive, quaint (size didn’t matter), friendly, offered delicious meals, amenities, a comparable price-tag, and let’s be honest, worth leaving your home.  It was hard work, but we forced ourselves to narrow it down to 10 scrumptious Inns. 

Cheers!

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10.  THE SWANN HOUSE-WASHINGTON, DC

Situated elegantly in the Dupont Circle Historic District, Swann House shines among neighboring embassies and stately Victorian homes.  Nearby you will find dozens of colorful shops, restaurants, and galleries.  They invite you to sip sherry by the fire and savor the ambiance of this 1883 Richardson Romanesque gem.  The sitting rooms, verandas and pool, all graciously appointed for your comfort beckon you to unwind.  Cozy fireplaces, flower-filled balconies and Jacuzzi bathtubs enhance several of our unique guestrooms, and all offer cable and telephones with voice mail and data port. 

Rates- $175-$395.  www.swannhouse.com

9.  LAKE POINTE INN-DEEP CREEK LAKE, MD

The Lake Pointe Inn is the oldest house on Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland.  It sits across from the Wisp Ski/Golf Resort.  The Mission-style furnishings are handcrafted true to the Arts and Crafts tradition.  Relax by the 9-foot stone fireplace in the Great Room or rock in chairs on a wraparound porch and take in the two-mile view down Marsh Run Cove.  It is also great for boating or fishing.  Tour the area with the Inn’s complimentary bikes, canoes and kayaks, and hiking and downhill skiing are within walking distance.  Full breakfast included and hors d’oeuvres served daily.

Rates- $232-$292.  www.deepcreekinns.com

8.  WOOLVERTON INN-STOCKTON NJ

Perched high about the Delaware River, surrounded by 300 acres of rolling farmland and forest, the Woolverton Inn provides the seclusion of a grand country estate.  You will enjoy the glorious setting and relaxed elegance of this 1792 stone manor, while feeling as comfortable as you would at your own home in the country.  All guestrooms are unique and thoughtfully decorated; many feature bucolic views, fireplaces, whirlpool and showers for two, private outdoor sitting areas, and stocked refrigerators.  Oh! and did we say it’s private?  Full gourmet breakfasts are served by candlelight, in the gardens, or in bed, so leave the kiddies with the grandparents. 

Rates- $150-$435.  www.woolvertoninn.com

7.  MILL HOUSE INN-EAST HAMPTON, NY

This historic 1790 Inn is located within the heart of “America’s most beautiful village.”  Surrounded by spectacular ocean beaches and picturesque country roads, the “East End” is a fisherman’s playground.  Curl up with a novel on cozy leather sofas, relax in Adirondack chairs, or sneak away for a bit of solitude in the lush gardens.  The Mill House Inn offers old-fashioned hospitality at its best.  In terms of food, chef-owner Gary created an extensive breakfast menu featuring his trademark “house-made, five-spice, roasted garlic turkey sausage,” and “bourbon honey thyme-smoked salmon.”  It’s so delicious, you’ll want to slap somebody, but we don’t recommend that. 

Rates- $225-$895.  www.millhouseinn.com

6.  THE GRISWOLD INN-ESSEX, CT

The Griswold Inn was built in 1776, and located in the “storybook” seaport village of Essex, which was selected as the best small town in America.  It is highly recommended for its superb New England cuisine.  It also houses a renowned maritime art collection.  In its historic tap room, called the most handsome barroom in America, you’ll find a long-standing tradition of sea chanteys, banjo, and more.  They offer free Continental breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch/hunt breakfast.

Rates- $110-$305.  www.griswoldinn.com

5.  PILGRIM’S INN-DEER ISLE, ME

Overlooking Northwest Harbor and picturesque millpond, the 1793 colonial is surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of remote Deer Isle in Penobscot Bay.  Glowing hearths, colonial colors, pumpkin pine floors, antique furnishings, combined with warm hospitality and gourmet meals in the charming barn dining room can please even the most finicky critic.  It is also on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rates- $109-$259.  www.pilgrimsinn.com

4.  THE CAPTAIN’S HOUSE INN-CHATHAM CAPE COD, MA

This is perhaps Cape Cod’s finest small Inn.  This historic 1839 sea captain’s estate on two acres is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or elegant retreat.  Country breakfasts, afternoon teas, beautifully decorated rooms, most with fireplaces and mini refrigerators.  This Inn boasts a top-notch and enthusiastic international staff.  This one is necessary visit.

Rates- Main House-$185-$200.  www.captainshouseinn.com

3.  SEVEN SEA STREET INN-NANTUCKET, MA

Enjoy the warmth of this beautiful Post and Beam Inn, located on a quiet street, in the heart of historic Nantucket.  A charming early American ambiance combined with modern comforts creates the perfect atmosphere for you to relax and unwind.  Most guestrooms have fishnet canopied beds while the suites have beautiful gas stove fireplaces.  You’ll be served an elegant Continental breakfast on fine china and take in a spectacular view of Nantucket Harbor from the widow’s walk deck or relax in a Jacuzzi spa.  If all else fails, it’s Nantucket, so how can you go wrong?

Rates- Main House-$109-$449.  www.sevenseastreetinn.com

2.  CASTLE HILL INN & RESORT-NEWPORT, RI

We’ve spoken about Castle Hill before and for good reason.  This Inn sits on a pristine 40-acre peninsula off Newport’s famed Ocean Drive.  Castle Hill offers the discriminating traveler the elegance and unparalleled beauty of a first-class resort.  You’ll marvel at panoramic views of the ocean and Narragansett Bay from each of the 25 guestrooms.  Pamper yourself with luxurious amenities such as large whirlpool tubs with marble surrounds, fireplaces, and down-laden beds with cotton damask linens, fine furnishings with antiques and oriental carpets.  In addition, complementary gourmet breakfast is served overlooking the Bay and afternoon high tea, will gracefully accent your experience.

Rates- $209-$489.  www.castlehillinn.com

1.   THE GOVERNOR’S INN-LUDLOW, VT

Governor Stickney Built this house for his bride, Elizabeth Lincoln, in 1890, and it retains the intimate feeling of an elegant country house furnished in the Victorian fashion.  With its extraordinary slate fireplaces and antique-filled rooms, as well as afternoon tea, six-course gourmet dinners, and full hot breakfasts, the Governor’s Inn provides the perfect base from which to explore Vermont.  You will love it here!

Rates- $159-$249.  www.thegovernorsinn.com

O.C.C. Jr.