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.