Ultimate Victorian Bed and Breakfast Experience in Luray, Virginia

Seeking some romance and relaxation, my husband and I headed to a recommended bed and breakfast in Luray, VA called South Court Inn. This beautifully restored farmhouse provides the perfect backdrop for any special occasion that calls for a rose petal covered four poster bed and bubble bath filled whirlpool tub. Champagne, chocolate dipped strawberries, as well as in-room massages, are purely optional.

South Court Inn excels at capturing the ultimate Victorian era experience in an authentic historical home. Each thoroughly researched portrait and porcelain piece within the home surrounds guests with all the opulence the late 1800's had to offer. With free wi-fi, flat screen televisions in each room and the closest proximity to downtown antique shopping, this inn offers the best of two worlds. There are no overwhelming candle scents and plenty of space in the guest rooms for personal items. "As lovely as my wife's decorating is, I wanted a man to feel just as comfortable in our rooms," says Tom Potts who owns and operates South Court Inn with his wife, Anita. They are such a sweet and accommodating couple. My husband and I really enjoyed just sitting and chatting with them. Visitors will also notice what could be the world's largest collection of Turkey dishes, including everything from 19th century salt holders to 21st century serving plates.

South Court Inn was originally built in 1875 by a Luray native whose son-in-law eschewed eccentricities like crown molding and exterior details. When he took possession of the home he removed the gable gingerbread, widow's walk, and porch roof balustrade. What stands today was a purchase in 1997 by Tom and Anita Potts who brought in their own antique collection and refurbished each room with historical detail.

In true Victorian fashion, the breakfast comes with a formal history lesson about the lavish dining habits of yesteryear, when one dining experience could total more than 22 courses, each with a new set of flatware. Reserving themselves to serving only a three-course meal, the Potts have an interesting story to accompany each dish. Whether it's their famous soufflé, delectable blueberry glazed cream puffs, or cooked-to-perfection ham frittata, no one leaves the table hungry. We were also pleasantly surprised to find that we shared the authentic Victorian dining table with three other couples in their late 20's and early 30's who had found and booked their stay online.

While 50 percent of reservations are being made online, "Inn-dustry" expert with BedandBreakfast.com Sandy Soule advises talking directly with the owner if you're unsure. "Online reservations are quick," she says. "But if you have special needs or requests, you'll want to speak with the inn keeper directly. The inn keepers are such amazing resources." As Soule explains, "if the inn keeper sounds like a cool person, go with your gut."