Tag Archives: bed and breakfast

Old Florida’s alive and well at Miami River Inn

Forget for a minute the barrage of fancy high-rise hotels that dot the Miami skyline and envision a leisurely weekend stay at the Miami River Inn, where old Florida is embraced, celebrated and preserved and has been since 1910.

Set along the historic Miami River (hence, the name), this quaint bed and breakfast has survived the changes that have made Downtown Miami into a thriving, modern metropolis.

The pale yellow house with lime green trim cries out Florida citrus while the lush tropical landscaping surrounding the pool provides a soothing, relaxing, sun-soaking oasis.

The Inn’s four cottages each with 10 rooms, feature hardwood floors, antique brass, wood and wicker furnishings, lovely sitting areas, garden views and comfortable, beautifully dressed beds. First floor rooms feature porches that open to the garden area, while second and third floor rooms provide a remarkable view of the Miami River and Downtown Miami.

The croquet green is a fun way to pass the time followed perhaps by a complimentary glass of wine in the evening.

Miami River Inn is located at 118 SW South River Drive, 305-325-0045, www.miamiriverinn.com

Victorian Splendor at Castle Marne

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Picture 38At nearly 125 years old, the huge stone mansion housing Castle Marne is listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and it’s as beautiful inside as it is outside. Each of this bed and breakfast’s nine rooms is a wonder, filled with antique furnishings of brass and iron and variously graced by cathedral ceilings, balconies, fireplaces, and even hot tubs. The piano parlor and frescoed dining room are equally sumptuous, and while breakfast and tea service are a given, guests can also arrange for private luncheons and six-course BYO dinners. Of course, a setting as grand as this is a natural for garden weddings—the proprietor is even licensed to officiate.

Quietude on Colfax: The Holiday Chalet

Picture 16Built in 1896 for a local jeweler, the brownstone mansion that now houses the Holiday Chalet is an oasis of gentility on raucous East Colfax. Though its nine rooms have been renovated to reflect the bed-and-breakfast’s Victorian origins, they’re also fully equipped with modern amenities (including Wifi and individual kitchens).

Still, the emphasis is on bygone civility, from full breakfast in the antique-filled tea room to ice cream socials in the flower-lined courtyard (which also contains a grill for barbecue-minded guests). And you can even dress for such occasions at She She, the on-site boutique of Chalet owner/fashion designer Crystal Sharp.

The Chateau Tivoli, A Star-Studded B&B

SFchateauJust two blocks north of Alamo Square’s famous “Painted Ladies” lies an equal beauty: The Chateau Tivoli. It charmed the likes of Mark Twain and Luisa Tetrazzini back in the day and continues to be a favorite among the elite. As elegant on the outside as it is on the inside, this landmark bed and breakfast will make you re-think this genre of accommodation.

For the modern guest, you’ll find a gracious wine and cheese reception in an old-fashioned music parlor. They even serve a classy champagne brunch on weekends. Antique furniture lavishes each suite from the likes of the Vanderbilt, Charles DeGaulle, and J. Paul Getty estates, that are named after famous opera singers and dancers who frequented the mansion.

If you’re looking to grab one of the nine room suites, you may be sharing the roof with some famous mansion-mates. Many a famous band member, talk show host, and actor have stayed at the Chateau Tivoli, keeping a low profile away from bustling downtown, while maintaining their sophisticated lifestyle.

Insider Tip: For quality reservations, forgo the online route and call Manager Nico Lizarraga.