During my childhood, I often vacationed at Florida beaches. The drive always seemed to take forever, especially those long stretches of nothingness that provided absolutely no fodder for automobile bingo. However, a recent drive to a New England oceanside destination was pleasantly different. The countryside I meandered through was picturesque and punctuated with exclamation points of history at every turn. There were no areas of nothingness or sameness in these parts, nor were there topographical clues that I was approaching a magnificent and expansive ocean vista.  

I have an affinity for bold colors artistically woven into a color scheme of interest and good taste. However, I love the crisp white color motif found throughout A Beachhouse Oceanfront B&B. The beaches of New England do not have the sugary white sands of Florida beaches. Yet, the monochromatic whites gracing the decor of this charming B&B beachhouse suffices for me and conveys an airy beach feel. Located on a private beach, just 20 feet from the ocean, the sound of swooshing waves and salty breezes completes the beachside magic. From the inn's common areas and sundeck, guests are able to enjoy the beauty of Cape Cod Bay and beyond. Though the guestrooms (two) and baths are not capacious, they are welcoming and comfortable. For guests desiring a larger area, the garden level's Sandcastle Room (shown above), provides more space as well as additional privacy.  

A delicious breakfast is prepared and served each morning by Denise and Jack, the resident owners/innkeepers who have a knack for making guests feel special and wanted even before their arrival at the inn. The beautifully presented meal is enjoyed by guests either in the seaside dining room or alfresco on the sundeck. Breakfasting at Oceanfront B&B, while drinking in the ever-changing ocean view and chatting with the inn's gracious hosts and other guests, provides the perfect elixir for beginning a new day in old Cape Cod.

Fine dining opportunities are available for guests staying at A Beachhouse Oceanfront B&B, including special privileges at the nearby White Cliff's Country Club where upscale dining may be enjoyed in a high-style atmosphere. In addition to enjoying a delicious dinner in the dining room of White Cliff's Country Club, I also enjoyed a delectable lunch at Isaacs' Restaurant (shown above left) in the midst of historic Plymouth with an unobstructed view of The Mayflower II (shown above right).

   

Even though I am a veteran member of "GRITS" (Girls Raised In The South), I am convinced I must have some New England blood running through my veins as well. I felt drawn to this beautiful area of the country long before I ever breathed its air, and it only took one visit to put New England "in my blood" if it were not there before. As I drive down the winding country road leading to Stonecroft Country Inn, I feel myself falling in love with this part of the country all over again. Once I arrive at Stonecroft, I want to explore both houses, as well as the grounds, all at the same time.

Stonecroft Inn, an early 19th century sea captain's estate spanning 6.5 acres, is situated in an Edenic setting made even more picturesque by native stonewalls, an old barn, and verdant lawns. One of Stonecroft's most distinctive features is its offering of two totally different properties as part of the same outstanding inn: The 1807 House (left photo at top of page) and The Grange (right photo at top of page). For purists, the original 1807 Georgia Colonial house provides a true glimpse into early America. This house features wide plank flooring, woodburning fireplaces, common rooms for guests to enjoy (one includes a complimentary refreshment area available 24/7), a cozy library, and a charming dining room (left photo above) where a full-country breakfast is served each morning. I stayed in Sarah's Room (photo below on far left) in the newly renovated "Grange," a post and beam barn boasting luxurious accommodations with gas fireplaces and over-the-top bathrooms. 

I love the inn's lush garden area embellished by a leaf covered arbor, a mesmerizing waterfall trickling into a small pond, and the individual firepits (middle photo below) for guests to enjoy on chilly nights. Piped in music adds to the natural serenity. The "croft" (far right photo below), from which the inn derives its name, is a favorite spot for weddings at the inn. The property's woodsy backdrop is especially magnificent during its autumnal splendor.     

Stonecroft provides an ideal base for exploring popular areas of southern New England, including Mystic, Stonington Borough, Long Island Sound, and Newport. After a day of sightseeing, there is no better way to end the day than having dinner at the inn's highly acclaimed restaurant located in The Grange and featuring creative regional cuisine prepared by an award-winning chef. The atmosphere provides an elegance that will not disappoint the most discerning guest.

For me, Stonecroft Country Inn exudes the beckoning character and charm of New England. Jason and Cathi, the brother-sister/owner-innkeeper team, have a contagious enthusiasm for Stonecroft which is evident whenever one is in their presence. After just one night, I caught Jason and Cathi's enthusiasm about this unique property and became anxious to share my discovery with others. It is an inn I would love to experience any season of the year.

Meticulously restored in 2008,  Stonehurst Place opened its doors as a bed and breakfast inn less than a year ago. Already it is being acclaimed as one of Atlanta's most outstanding inns for individuals traveling to Atlanta on business or pleasure. A delightful shingle-style house, built in 1896, Stonehurst Place is conveniently located in midtown Atlanta close to downtown businesses as well as the arts district. Stonehurst Place is situated upon a hill with English-inspired gardens; a whimsical fountain embellishes the front garden and can be enjoyed from the front porch. Magnificent architectural stone formations contribute to the overall beauty of the property's exterior. On-site parking is available, and fine dining is within walking distance.

Though characterized by a feel of urbane sophistication, Stonehurst Inn also exudes a sense of welcoming warmth. The inn has 3 porches for guests to enjoy, and I thoroughly enjoyed relaxing on each of them. A former sleeping porch (on the second level) has been attractively converted into an enclosed "porch" overlooking the gardens below. The front porch (above photo on left) allows guests to view Atlanta's skyscrapers while surrounded by trees and listening to piped-in music. The third porch (above photo on right) is also located on the main level and overlooks the well-manicured gardens. The middle photo shows afternoon refreshments offered to guests each afternoon in the living room. In addition to luxurious appointments throughout the inn, Stonehurst Place is an eco-friendly property featuring water conservation systems and solar energy. It is also a pet-friendly inn and even offers a "Pampered Pooch Package!"