Lodging

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

Milliken Creek Inn & Spa Ode to Chocolate

My ears, or should I say, my taste buds perked up when I heard that Milliken Creek Inn and Spa was offering an “Ode to Chocolate” Package. This luxury boutique Inn, located on the southern part of Napa Valley’s Silverado Trail, oozes romance and privacy. On my particular visit, it also oozed chocolate; milk, dark, white and even a massage with chocolate oil.

Milliken Magic Hour

The 12 room Milliken Creek Inn and Spa has teamed up with local chocolatiers and wine makers to offer guests the finest in chocolate and wine pairing. They even offer a “Milliken Magic Hour” from 6-7 p.m. where a local winemaker comes to chat with guests and pour his or her featured wine, along with cheese, crackers and fruit. On my visit, a stormy wet day in October, Peju was the featured wine.

Ode to Chocolate Package

The “Ode to Chocolate” package is available starting at $720 for a two night stay and includes one 90 minute chocolate massage, the magic hour, several boxes of chocolate and breakfast for two.  

Milliken Creek Inn, Nancy D. Brown

As a guest of Milliken Creek Inn and Spa, I stayed in room #7, a luxury room that over looks Milliken Creek. The rooms are broken down into three price categories; Milliken, deluxe and luxury. The deluxe and luxury rooms guarantee river views and are a bit larger than the standard room. The luxury rooms also feature ultra spa tubs.

Customer Satisfaction

The hotel is keen on customer satisfaction, from the offer of a Milliken umbrella to ward off the torrential down pour to a concierge service to make dinner or wine tasting reservations. I appreciated that the property was set up for wireless internet access throughout, while honeymooners will like the robes provided in room for lounging by the fireplace or on the balcony.

Milliken Creek Inn & Spa

Chocolates include:

Peju Province Winery

Swanson Vineyards

Woodhouse Chocolates

Photos courtesy of Nancy D. Brown

Milliken Creek Inn and Spa 888 622-5775

1815 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558

Bear Creek runs alongside the Highland Haven property in Evergreen, Colorado

Sitting alongside a long stretch of Bear Creek and surrounded by forest in Evergreen, Colorado, is Highland Haven, a treasure in the mountains that’s just a 30 minute drive from bustling downtown Denver. A simultaneously sophisticated and rustic spot for rest and relaxation, Highland Haven welcomes guests who appreciate excellent customer service and simply want to “get away from it all” without having to travel too far from civilization.

I love staying in properties that have interesting stories behind them, and Highland Haven sure fits that bill. The main building, the Dailey Cabin, was named for its first owner John Dailey Sr., who co-founded the (now sadly defunct) Rocky Mountain News. This 19th-century cabin — fully updated with 21st-century comforts — is where guests check in to Highland Haven and enjoy a sumptuous (included) breakfast spread.

Breakfast recipes come from owner Gail Riley, an accomplished chef (and cookbook author), whose other role as interior designer is to decorate the rooms with perfectly chosen antiques and her “Colorado chic” style. Her husband Tom is the craftsman behind the marvelous woodwork, cabinetry and tile design. Together they’ve owned and updated the property since 1979 (note the impressive 30-year anniversary this year). Their daughter and son-in-law are managers of the B&B. The fact that this property is family owned and operated by multiple generations simply adds to its charm.

Warm accents in Highland Haven's rooms

The inn has been the recipient of dozens of awards and accolades over the  years, including “Most Romantic Hideaway,” “Best Small Inn” and “Top Place to Pop the Question” by hospitality experts and local and regional magazines. That’s no surprise it’s noted for its romance — couples can relax with a glass of wine in comfortable chairs by Bear Creek, which runs alongside the property; sit at a table for two at breakfast; or get cozy in any of the property’s rooms, suites or cottages.

Accommodations range from standard guest rooms with queen or king-size beds that start at $150 a night. I loved my Creekside Cottage accommodations, with a gas fireplace, four-poster pine bed, and unpretentious decor with log-beam accents. Families can stay in the Evergreen Suite or the Hillside Cottages with two bedrooms each. The most commonly booked is the Gardener’s Cottage, with a pretty king canopy bed and Jacuzzi tub. Each room type has its own private entrance and, again, is decorated in a non-fussy style: no lace and no delicate antiques, just comfortable furniture and warm accents that blend in perfectly with the log-cabin exteriors.

Creekside Cottage One at Highland Haven

Breakfast is included in the room rate at Highland Haven. When I stayed there, the morning spread consisted of veggie strata, raspberry ricotta blintzes, potatoes, bagels, granola, fruit and plenty of hot coffee and tea. Everything I tasted was excellent, and I enjoyed mingling with the other guests in the Dailey Cabin as soft jazz played in the background.

Coming in the second half of 2010 is an 850-square-foot “luxury cottage in the trees,” the Tree House, built with the environment in mind. The owners are taking care to use sustainable materials for these accommodations nestled between two 60-foot blue spruce. The three-story interior will feature a magnificent chandelier over a king-size bed, custom iron and stone fireplace, a two-person steam shower and a third-floor hot-tub spa cupola.

For more details about the new Tree House, or to reserve your romantic Colorado getaway, call 800-459-2406. The inn is open year-round, with holidays (especially Valentine’s Day) booking quickly.

Photos: Interior courtesy Highland Haven; others by Kara Williams.

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

The Garden at Pearson's Pond

The rain dances across Pearson’s Pond as the garden vibrates lush green and red hues. It is early September in Juneau, Alaska and summer is officially over. No matter the weather, owner Diane Pearson’s enthusiasm for the changing seasons is contagious.

“Come outside and see the garden,” she beckons. A master gardener, Pearson points out the blackberry bushes as we stroll up to the bench that looks down upon the private glacial kettle pond, complete with paddle boat and kayaks.

Warm chocolate chip cookies great me upon arrival. Fresh bread, baked by Pearson’s husband, waits in guest rooms, as do champagne flutes. Pearson’s Pond is levitating romance. In fact, a blushing bride, married hours earlier, walks by and thanks Pearson for planning her special day.

Romance at Pearson’s Pond

“We sell an experience,” smiles Pearson. “Romance, honeymoons, adventure travel; we do complete trip planning, tailored to individual itineraries.” While there is a two night minimum for the property, the average stay at Pearson’s Pond is 10-12 days.

Romantic Forest View Room

Bring your credit card, because this luxury comes at a price. The Waterview Room, a demi-suite, rents for $525 per night, May-September. It offers a balcony, Whirlpool tub and small kitchenette. The Forest View room, my favorite, goes for $425, and comes with a kitchenette and rain shower in the bathroom with a Mendenhall Glacier feel.

Alaska’s only four diamond property, all rooms have kitchenettes, include an extended continental Self-Serve breakfast, afternoon snacks and wine and cheese from 5-6 p.m. A complimentary computer is downstairs, as is a small gym. Guests also have access to a massage room, bikes and laundry facilities for cleaning clothes after a day of outdoor adventure. And for those guests wanting to prolong their Alaska stay, the Pearson’s offer off-site deluxe one bedroom water view condos with balcony near downtown. Visitors to Juneau will have plenty of things to see and do in this outdoor wonderland.

Bench Looking Over Pearson's Pond

All photos courtesy of Nancy D. Brown

Pearson’s Pond (907) 789-3772 or 1 (888) 658-6328

4541 Sawa Circle, Juneau, Alaska 99801-8723

From Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

Alaska's Capital Inn - 1906 Historic B&B

We pulled up to the seven room Alaska’s Capital Inn as owner Linda Wendeborn was outside in the garden. It was a rainy September day and the Bed and Breakfast was warm and welcoming inside. Wendeborn and husband, Mark Thorson, purchased the property in 1999 and have since updated the 1906 arts and crafts style home, room by room, including local Alaskan art throughout the Inn.

Each room is named after the original owners and their children. In fact, Wendeborn was delighted to discover the school books of the children tucked away in the attic. Lila’s Suite includes a queen bed and sofa pull out for children. The room rents for $339 and includes a Jacuzzi tub. John’s room, named after the father, includes a handcrafted quartersawn oak king poster bed and lists at $309 during high season. The Governor’s Suite with a Jacuzzi tub is $339, while Viola’s room is large enough to accomodate a wheelchair.

John's Room Features a Four Poster Bed

Wendeborn, the self-titled “Commissioner of Love” is licensed to marry couples. The property has a full garden, with an occasional bear passing through and an outdoor hot tub. A full cooked breakfast is included, as well as wine and treats in the afternoon. The property is wired for WiFi and has a computer and printer downstairs for guests use. Every room has a TV/VCR and phone, some offer jacuzzi tubs and a fireplace. All rooms offer romance. Children eight and older are welcome. No pets are allowed.

Located conveniently in Juneau’s downtown historic neighborhood, the Inn is close to the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and local restaurants for eating and drinking. The Bed and Breakfast is within walking distance to downtown. Your rate also includes passes to the Mt. Robert’s Tramway, a $54 value for two persons.

Photos courtesy of Nancy D. Brown

Alaska’s Capital Inn (888) 588-6507 or (907) 586-6507

113 W. Fifth Street, Juneau, Alaska 99801

There are some inns and bed and breakfasts that attempt to make you feel at home and then there are the ones that successfully make you feel at home. The Bella Luna Inn in Black Mountain, North Carolina is certainly one that falls into the ones that make you feel at home. My wife and I recently had the opportunity and privilege to stay at the Bella Luna.

Just blocks from the beautiful downtown area of Black Mountain, the Bella Luna immediately strikes your attention with its beautiful outdoor flowers, a recently added fountain and countryside exterior look. To be honest, I expected an older retired couple to greet us at the door, but was pleasantly surprised when the young Cynthia greeted us. That was one of many expectations that the Bella Luna positively surpassed.

Cynthia gave us the tour of the inn, which included a full run-down of things happening in Black Mountain and the Asheville area and a reminder of the complimentary wine that was available before we turned in for the evening. Our tour ended with us dropping our bags off in our room. My bed is one of the things I take the most pride in at our home and I expect the same when lodging and I wasn’t disappointed. The king-sized bed was huge and included a fluffy down comforter and several pillows, which is a huge plus for me. The  jacuzzi bath tub with jets was another pleasant surprise. Many inns I’ve stayed at have included a simple bath tub and/or shower, but the jacuzzi tub was so comfortable and big that it took two shower curtains to extend around it.

The other highlights of the room were on the other side of the bathroom. The first was the reading room, which included a couple high-backed chairs and an ottoman. Across from the reading room was the door to the adjoining room, which is great for coming with a big family or another couple. A luxury of that particular room was our own private outside door that led down to our car.

Before arriving at the inn, I had been forewarned about Cynthia’s unique and organic, yet amazing cooking. Although it wasn’t your typical breakfast at an inn, it was as good as any I’ve had. Our plate included Blackberry Ricotta Pancakes, thick bacon and white peaches.

Rates vary depending on the room, starting at $100 and going up to $200. Rooms include a jacuzzi bath tub, sitting and reading areas and some of the rooms include an enclosed porch. Rates include a gourmet breakfast and complimentary wine. The Bella Luna currently has a special going on where you receive 15% off your stay if you lodge for three nights.

Photos courtesy of Gretchen Howard.

Bella Luna Inn
99 Terry Estate Drive
Black Mountain, NC 28711
(828) 664-9714

Posted by Nancy D. Brown of What a Trip

Fairhaven Village Inn

My first time to Bellingham, Washington and I’ve landed in the charming Fairhaven Village Inn. I’m here on a culinary and agri-tour with Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism. It’s about 75 degrees on a sunny day in the historic downtown area. I also count myself lucky in that I arrived on a Wednesday in July so I could take advantage of the Fairhaven Outdoor Farmers Market running from 12 noon to 5 p.m. just across the street on the Village Green. Saturday evenings from June 20 – August 29 there is jazz or folk music at 8:30 p.m. on the Village Green. As night falls, an outdoor movie is projected on the wall. The Inn will even give you a blanket to sit on the grass and watch the evening entertainment.

If you are looking for a leisurely spot to stroll or jog, the trail to Boulevard Park begins just 20 feet north of the hotel’s lobby. The path will lead you along Taylor Dock and out over the Bellingham Bay.

Fairhaven Village Inn – The Sweet Spot

Owners Gene and Connie Shannon consider their location the sweet spot, situated between bustling Seattle and scenic Vancouver, British Columbia. “I consider this a comfortable place to be,” notes Connie. “Not a B&B.”

Bayside Room #211

The Fairhaven Inn was built eleven years ago and has 22 rooms. My room, #211, is a bayside queen with a fireplace and partial view of the bay and rents for $189 on a weekday. Check the website for special packages and best rates. As I type this post, I listen to the seagulls calling to one another in the distance. I also appreciate that the Inn offers complimentary internet access and continential breakfast. I was too busy checking out the local dining scene to lounge around in the robe that was hanging in the closet.

Light sleepers take note; the train rumbles by at 12:22 a.m. Pack your earplugs. The Fairhaven Village Inn offers AAA discounts and is a member of Unique Inns.

Fairhaven Village Inn 1 (360) 733-1311

1200 10th Street, Bellingham, WA

Photos by Nancy D. Brown

Inn on Castro caters mainly to a chiefly gay clientele.

On Sunday, June 28 San Francisco celebrated its annual Pride parade. The city’s gay population and their supporters came out (not pun intended) en masse to celebrate at parties in various locations around the city, but no place more than in the Castro district.

It occurred to me that in the 10 months I’ve contributed to this blog, I hadn’t covered any place in the Castro. Time to change that.

Inn on Castro is a restored Edwardian building one-half block up Castro Street from Market Street. Eight rooms on three floors are available at the inn, and for larger parties, three spacious and well-appointed apartments are located nearby.

Innkeeper Jan de Gier has owned the Inn on Castro for 26 years. He gave me a tour of the inn decorated with modern furnishings, original art, and fresh flowers. Most rooms have mini fridges stocked with water and soda, all have robes, flat-screen tvs, DVD players, and free wi-fi. The patio suite has a relaxing, well-tended outdoor garden with a view. A full breakfast is served daily. One sweet touch is that the extensive collection of napkins and fine china are rotated daily as well.

The living room in the Douglass St. apartment.

Jan also took me across Market Street to his other properties on Douglass and Caselli sts. Apartments are located in residential areas, off of the main hub of the Castro.

As we drove around the Castro, Jan pointed out some of his favorite spots including Toad Hall, Trigger, Sumi Sushi, Anchor Oyster Bar, and the fabulous piano bar Martuni’s.

An informed innkeeper with a passion for where he or she lives is a true treasure. Jan de Gier is one such person.

We hit it off well, chatting about architecture, food, art, death, relationships, and philosopy.  When he found out I’d never been there, he insisted on taking me to Kite Hill Open Space, which it turns out is not a good place to fly a kite (”too windy, It actually has a down draft”) but was named for the small birds of prey called kites that occupy the hill most of the year.

It was breathtaking. A view of the city I’d never seen in the 19 years I’ve lived here. With the Castro in the forefront, its gynormous rainbow flag flapping in the wind, and the bay receding behind City Hall and the downtown skyline, it was impossible not to feel Pride. Thanks, Jan.

Inn on Castro, 321 Castro Street, San Francisco, CA 94114; 415.861.0321

Photos by Lisa Dion

The Edwards II Inn & Suites.

The Edward II Inn and Suites is a 100 year-old work-in-progress. This place just oozes potential. I just seemed to have hit it during a real in-between phase.

Let’s start with the good stuff. The Edwards II has been catching my eye for years whenever I would drive down Lombard Street. On a strip with abundance of bland motels, this little English B&B with a castle-like turret and a cozy British pub, stands out.

When I stopped in, I met the “interim innkeepers,” a couple who were quick to tell me that they were actually from Dallas and had only been in San Francisco for a week. The gentleman showed me to some cute, tidy rooms that range from $69 to $175 per night.  Some had a strong antiseptic smell, but the beds I tried were comfy. The less expensive rooms are “European style” (read: shared bath), the higher-priced rooms are junior suites.

There are also two longer-term apartments with kitchens, jetted tubs and laundry facilities in a charming carriage house across the street. These apartments rent for $250 per night.

The hotel was originally built to house guests of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exhibition. Lovely leaded glass details are threaded throughout, adorning windows and doors of this 29 room, three-story inn. A gorgeous stained-glass skylight crowns the ceiling at the top of the stairs.

Breakfast at the Edwards II, inn in transition.

When I asked about Bloomer’s Pub, I was told that it was closed indefinitely. There was also no information about Cafe Maritime, the restaurant that is featured on the website. Ditto for the fitness center, which I assumed was a deal worked out for guests in a nearby gym. Same thing when asked about spa treatments. I was told that the owner was making changes and things were in transition. Then, the flummoxed female innkeeper basically dismissed me.

I plan to check back on Edward II in a few months to see what kinks have been worked out. It’s a sweet place that in the right hands could be a gem. Stay tuned!

Photos by Lisa Dion