Absolutely immersive Victorian experience! This house is a treasure, and I really didn't want to leave. Gleaming warm wood, cozy corners and everything was clean and orderly. We only stayed one night because it's fairly pricey but wow - just one more night would've been SO worth it. We chose the Master Suite for it's spacious bathroom and king size bed. Plus the amazing view of the lighthouse and water. When the sun came up in the morning, everything turned pink and it was truly stunning. The rooms are clean and the bed was SO COMFORTABLE! Did I mention the HUGE claw-foot soaking tub?! Between my bath and that bed - it was ultimate relaxation heaven.
We had a blast exploring each room and looking over every antique. The game room in the basement was super cool and we lucked out with it all to ourselves! There are books EVERYWHERE on almost every subject you can imagine. Lovely little touches such as chocolates on our doorknob when we came back from dinner, USB access on the night stand and lavender spritz in the bathroom really made our stay extra special.
We stayed in the off-season, there was a good smaller group of guests altogether. Not too crowded and everyone we encountered was very pleasant. We especially enjoyed Ursa the doggy at the top of the stairs when we came back from dinner, it was sweet to say hello to the resident pet! I especially appreciated the open access coffee and hot tea in the library room off of the dining area - strong, hot and surrounded by books...that is how I want to wake up every day.
Breakfast was quite the affair! So fancy, I almost wasn't sure I was fancy enough to be there ;) We were served a fruit cocktail first, with a sweet little bundt cake. Next was AMAZING eggs benedict and that was followed by a decadent, creamy bread pudding. I also got tea service, there was orange juice and I especially love that Cindy confirmed our food and beverage choices when we checked in the day prior. THAT is thoughtful innkeeping.
I can't wait until we can come back again and try out one of the other rooms! I felt a real connection to this house and I'm so glad it's...
Read moreThe Old Consulate Inn is the stand-out Bed & Breakfast in town. Other locales might be grander, but they have nothing on this stately Victorian overlooking a lighthouse and marina. The care and detail of each room is impeccable and unique.
Modern amenities are present, but blend beautifully and are disguised with an artful hand. The decor is true to the period but never feels cluttered. Instead there are nooks and shelves and niches displaying pieces to inspect and admire. I found it comfortable, and not as though I was a naughty child exploring forbidden rooms, because the atmosphere is welcoming and homey. The nearby clock tower at the Jefferson County Courthouse chiming the hour always made me smile. It never caused me any lost sleep or annoyance even though my windows faced the building across the park. In truth, I slept more soundly and longer at the inn than I have in months. Breakfast is presented at 9:00 like clockwork and is a work of art in itself.
The proprietors are everything for which one could hope, looking quite at home in their period appropriate clothing. Cyndi is graceful, elegant, and capable. Her wry humor and economic movements speak of her confidence, and when she isn't bustling about behind the kitchen door, she is the epitome of a gracious hostess. I liked her immediately. Nathan is a charmer with a quick smile and an intriguing mustache. Though suited to perfection, he never failed to pitch in when necessary, and offered seamless transitions through breakfast and an event or two. I saw more of him than Cyndi, but had the impression that the two were truly partners, and both came and went with an elegant discretion that I envy.
The staff is friendly and almost fairy-like in their spectacularly efficient and nearly invisible comings and goings. The rules of the house are not overbearing or unreasonable. Rather, they carry common sense, common courtesy, and a respect for the graceful home and its...
Read moreStayed here for a few days a year ago in the master suite and I absolutely loved it (just realized I never rated it).
The breakfasts are certainly the best compared to any other B&B that I've stayed at, which to me means a lot. The presentation of the food was also wonderful. Definitely perfect breakfasts. I was always excited to see what we'd be having each day.
The owners were also very nice, and they give you a little tour of the place when you check in. Really makes you feel welcome. This is also where my now husband proposed. They setup some roses, champagne and flowers in the room for when we arrived, which was really wonderful.
I've noticed that several (though not all B&Bs) will bake cookies. This place also does that and their cookies are without a doubt the best! They also bring you truffles every evening which were really tasty, and just a really nice touch.
As for the room, it was really cute! And big. I loved the little tower/alcove in it! Perfect place to read books, etc. And honestly, it was just kind of fun...
Only thing I wished they had was a Jacuzzi. Perhaps one day they could put one into the bathroom? :P However, the rest of the experience was so wonderful that I was still super happy. Still my favorite B&B to this day (and I always try to find the fanciest ones that I can).
Finally, the outside part of the property was also nice. There was a little gazebo that we had lunch at one day. Nice and pretty. The B&B is also in a quiet part of town which also makes it very relaxing.
We will definitely come back one day! Maybe...
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