If you're looking for a romantic rendezvous, Castle in the Country in Allegan, Michigan, delivers.
This secret gem is just a 30-45 minute drive from Kalamazoo and the coastal towns of South Haven, Holland and Saugatuck/Douglas, and just under an hour from Grand Rapids -- ideally situated to explore Michigan's beaches, wineries, arts communities, and an abundance of antique and art gallery shopping.
The property's 65 acres house two main buildings -- the Castle and Castle Keep -- both of which showcase beautiful rooms and suites, many with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. There is also a wedding chapel, outdoor eating area, screened gazebo, and screened porch with dock on a private lake -- perfect for those sometimes buggy Michigan evenings.
We took time to explore the buildings and looked at each (unoccupied) room. The main Castle rooms were decorated with beautifully restored antiques, while the Castle Keep blended a bit more modern design with an old-world style.
We stayed in the Keep's Sir Lancelot Suite which featured a two-person whirlpool tub, double-head shower, and fireplace. One of the most distinctive features of the room was a unique recessed ceiling over a truly luxurious king-size bed. The recess is triple layered around a muted light fixture casting a romantic glow on the bedroom. A perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Innkeepers Herb and Ruth Boven are gracious hosts. Ruth greeted us and provided invaluable information about the property, surrounding area and restaurants. For dinner, we took Ruth's first recommendation -- the Grill House -- and it was perfect. The food was fantastic, the portions required doggy bags, and the staff super friendly.
Our breakfast the next day was prepared by Herb -- yum! Fresh fruit and apricot scones were just appetizers for the main course of cream-cheese stuffed French toast with a light strawberry sauce, crispy thick-cut bacon, and fruit garnish. Coffee and tea, and orange juice topped off the breakfast. We didn't leave hungry!
The Castle in the Country is a perfect place for a celebration destination -- stay for a couple of days of complete relaxation and pampering, and you'll feel like you've been away for a week! For more romantic getaways, click here.