Historic Retreats

New England has long been synonymous with history and scenery, and there is no better way to experience it than at a wonderful bed and breakfast or remarkable country inn.

There are many wonderful lodging opportunities in this region of the country, but here are some of the best of the best - when not just any accommodations will do, but the only most attentive and superb service and surroundings. So whether you are going for an extended historic vacation, or an intimate weekend retreat, New England will meet your needs and more!

Hawthorne Inn (Concord, Mass): This B & B is perfect for those with an interest in literature. At one time or another, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Louisa May Alcott, and Ralph Waldo Emerson owned the land this fine 1870 building sits on. You will feel swept away in history as you visit Thoreau's Walden Pond, wander through the bountiful gardens, and surround yourself with top of the line antiques and the eclectic decorations.

Longfellow's Wayside Inn (Sudbury, Mass): Step right into a folk art painting at this unique setting that inspired Henry Longfellow to write "Tales of a Wayside Inn". Dine by firelight or relax in your room tastefully decorated with country antiques. You can even visit the schoolhouse that Mary's little lamb followed her to!

Charlotte Inn (Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, Mass): This enclave of superb buildings is by far the most refined in this village of refinement. The main house also serves as Edgartown's Art Gallery, though the guest rooms themselves are museum quality. Enjoy fine French cuisine by candlelight in the sophisticated property restaurant.

Mayflower Inn (Washington, Conn): This is the Inn that magazines are made of! Flawless in its attention to detail, the Mayflower is the epitome of perfection. Four poster beds, fireplaces, marble bathrooms, and impeccable taste make it easy to see why this inn has been a preferred favorite for even the most discriminating, including Eleanor Roosevelt, throughout the years.

Twin Farms (Barnard, Vt): Large private suites and graceful stone cottages pamper anyone with a love of extravagance. Novelist Sinclair Lewis once resided here, and today it upholds its traditional elegance. Be advised though, the nightly rates at this ultimate indulgence are more breathtaking than the scenery; this is definitely not a lodging option for the budget-minded!

Stone Hill Inn (Stowe, Vt): This bed and breakfast is designed to inspire romance. Each room features a two-person fireside Jacuzzi, candles and rubber duckies for bath time, turndown service with premium chocolates, and though you won't feel as ensconced in history as at some of the other inns and B & B's in New England, the décor is traditional and upscale. Guests have access to a well-stocked 24-hour pantry and the gourmet breakfasts are outstanding!

White Barn Inn (Kennebunkport, Maine): World-class service and no amenity overlooked make it easy to see why this resort has won numerous awards. Fresh fruit and flowers in all of the rooms, plush robes, and an evening turndown service provide the extra touches that will surpass any and all expectations! Gentlemen are required to wear jackets in the internationally renowned restaurant, and there is even a wine room on site that features over 7,000 bottles of fine vintages.

Visitors come to New England for relaxation, for romance, for the landscape, for the history and more. Become one with times gone by as you surround yourself in the luxury of today, while staying in accommodations that have stood for centuries. While there are metropolitan venues and adventure opportunities in abundance, it is the timeless serenity that is most appealing about this heart of Americana!