Inn Good Company

Written by Marti Mayne

Friday, 02 March 2007

Side Story Tips Hot Spots & Unique Offerings:  Stay in the Henry & Ethel Robinson Room and you’ll find a one-of-a-kind marble enclosed shower stall with a clawfoot tub in the center prompting the inevitable question, “How did they get that in there?” The Real Deal:  The Hidden Room.  Tucked into the eaves, it is cozy with a price to match. What You Won’t Find:  Jacuzzi tubs. Insider’s Secret:  The bottomless jar of mouth-watering, homemade chocolate chip cookies in the kitchen!  Read More >> 1811 House, Front 1811 House Manchester, Vermont’s 1811 House epitomizes classic New England.  Home to Abraham Lincoln’s granddaughter Mary for more than 30 years, it is a model of quiet sophistication and history preserved.  The fine art displayed throughout the inn, the true-to-period clean Federal styling–even the complimentary sherry and port give the 1811 House its feeling of stately distinction.  Immediately upon entering the 1811 House, I spied the British style pub, and quickly learned it cradles the most extensive collection of single-malt whiskies in Vermont–and maybe New England–and found that 1811 House-owner Bruce Duff is readily willing to share his expertise about this liquid gold.  While I’m not a connoisseur of Scotch, I was delighted to find an extensive and eclectic collection of wines, spirits and local brews available, too.     The owners’ efforts to preserve the home’s historic integrity while offering modern conveniences have resulted in seamless transitions for their guests.  When I opened the door to our guestroom, I saw a wonderful fireplace and king-size bed.  Upon more detailed inspection, I discovered wireless Internet access and a flat-screen LCD television hidden behind a lovely piece of artwork.  The heated floors and towel racks in the bath blended perfectly with the wood-burning fireplace set in an original hearth. 1811 House, Vermont     Breakfast was served by candlelight on fine china with sterling place settings.  I chose to sit with others at a family-style dining table, while other guests opted for more privacy at tables for 2 set fireside in the pub.  Happily, I was there for the signature Sunday morning Eggs Benedict with a hollandaise sauce that was perfectly buttery and lemony.  Fresh juice and fruit, freshly baked pastries, and bottomless cups of coffee or a selection of fine tea accompanied my meal.  I was so fully satisfied by the breakfast that I didn’t think about food for hours afterwards.     The innkeepers collectively bring more than 50 years of hospitality experience to the 1811 House.  Passions for fine art and gardening, cuisine and antiques are clearly represented as signatures of the inn.  And while they are not regularly on the premises, there’s a new generation of innkeepers learning from the best.  Three little girls keep innkeepers Jorge and his wife Cathy young and full of laughs.     While it’s distinctive in its legacy, the 1811 House is casual and welcoming, exuding a calm that offers a romantic getaway with plenty of space.  From the Honor Bar to the whimsical frog in the garden, 1811 House exceeded my expectations at every corner.  800.432.1811, www.1811House.com

Marti Mayne About the author: Marti Mayne has taken 20 years of marketing experience and dedicated it to providing marketing and public relations services for the tourism, and bed and breakfast industry with her company Maynely Marketing. Specializing in public relations and marketing for vacation destinations, country inns, and bed and breakfasts, Maynely Marketing works with convention and visitors bureaus, state lodging and bed and breakfast associations, country inns/bed and breakfast consortiums and individual country inns/bed and breakfasts to offer consultation in development of press kits, press releases, press FAM tours, and placement of articles in local, state and national publications.  Read More >> Articles by this Author: Rockland Rocks A Compendium of Captains Danica Hand Dipped Candles Historic Inns of Rockland Rockland 4 Kids View all articles by this author

Last Updated ( Thursday, 08 March 2007 )

 

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