R & R Means Romance and Relaxation

Market Wire, 20050229

Just in time to celebrate engagements, weddings, and anniversaries, the editors of the BedandBreakfast.com Report have selected their top 12 romantic B&Bs for 2003. Each choice has been visited by renowned travel writer Sandy Soule or a member of her editorial team. Absolutely no fee or membership was required for inclusion. The BedandBreakfast.com Report is a free online newsletter, celebrating its third anniversary this month.

Each B&B is a great choice for romance and relaxation, with well-equipped, comfortable, and attractive accommodations. Many are surprisingly affordable, and most allow you to forget your worries until the time comes (much too soon) to head home. To give the gift of romance for special occasions, purchase gift certificates at www.BedandBreakfast.com, accepted at nearly 2,700 U.S. inns.

1. Arizona: Casa Sedona, Sedona (www.casasedona.com/)

Dramatic red rock views from this hacienda-style luxury inn. Indulgent amenities are supplemented by cookies & tea, evening hors d'oeuvres, a hot tub and hiking trails.

2. California: Tickle Pink, Carmel (www.ticklepinkinn.com)

Dramatic vistas of crashing waves make the Tickle Pink a top choice. A breakfast buffet is laid out on the cliff-top deck; an ample wine and cheese spread follows each evening.

3. Georgia: Foley House, Savannah (www.foleyinn.com/)

In the heart of Savannah's historic district, Foley House offers ample common areas for relaxing and enjoying breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and an evening wine reception; guest rooms are equally gracious and appealing.

4. Illinois: Goldmoor Inn, Galena (www.goldmoorinn.com)

Watching the sunset over the Mississippi River is always a romantic sight, but it's much more so when you can enjoy it from a whirlpool tub in one of the inn's luxury suites.

5. Iowa: Butler House, Des Moines, IA (www.butlerhouseongrand.com)

Period Tudor architecture with decor that offers an exceptional balance of style and comfort, enhanced by the welcoming hospitality of innkeepers Lauren & Clark Smith. Amazingly affordable rates.

6. Missouri: Aunt Sadie's, Branson (www.auntsadies.com/as/index.html)

For true Ozark's hospitality, you can't beat the affordable extravagance of a visit to Aunt Sadie's. The Secret Garden cabin has a deck with a private hot tub, a king-size bed, fireplace, whirlpool tub, and more.

7. New Hampshire: Hancock Inn, Hancock (www.hancockinn.com/)

It's easy to travel two centuries back to Hancock, a beautiful historic New England village. In continuous operation since 1789, the inn offers an excellent restaurant, plus new luxury rooms with fireplaces, king-size beds, and whirlpool tubs.

8. Pennsylvania: Glasbern, Fogelsville (www.glasbern.com/)

Head to Glasbern to relax and unwind. From the beautifully landscaped grounds and fine dining in the restored barn, to the outstanding service and luxury accommodations, the only hard part is returning to reality.

9. Tennessee: Buckhorn Inn, Gatlinburg (www.buckhorninn.com)

From the gracious dining to the mountain views, from the elegant guest rooms to the cottages tucked in the woods, Lee & John Mellor have done a remarkable job of updating this wonderful country inn without losing a scintilla of its period charm.

10. Utah: Johnson Mill B&B, Midway (www.johnsonmill.com)

You don't need a lot of "bread" to enjoy a romantic escape at this restored 1890s flour mill, just an hour from Salt Lake City. The hot tub overlooking the five-acre pond and Provo River is incredibly romantic on a starry night.

11. Vermont: Windham Hill Inn, West Townshend (www.windhamhill.com)

Pull two Adirondack chairs close together, sit back, and enjoy the sweeping Green Mountain panorama. Savor the luxurious accommodations, ample breakfasts and fine dining, plus the on-site tennis, swimming, and hiking trails.

12. British Columbia: Point No Point Resort, Sooke (www.pointnopointresort.com)

What could be better than cozy cottages with private decks and hot tubs, plus dramatic water and mountain views? Add a wonderful restaurant, grounds honeycombed with meandering paths, and a private beach for an idyllic escape.

For more top choices for romantic inns from BedandBreakfast.com editors, visit:

Winners, 2002: www.bedandbreakfast.com/report/june-july-02/story1.htm

Winners, 2001: www.bedandbreakfast.com/report/may-june-01/ask_sandy.htm

BedandBreakfast.com(R) is the leading online bed & breakfast reservation network, listing over 27,000 bed & breakfasts and inns in the U.S. and internationally. Extensive search functions and maps enable inngoers to find the perfect B&B. Travelers can make reservations online, purchase gift certificates, and subscribe to a free newsletter. Founded by Eric Goldreyer, BedandBreakfast.com's goal is to provide the best possible experience for innkeepers and inngoers alike.

(Photos available for all inns)