For many of us the holiday of romance can seem full of perplexities. Valentine’s Day can either make you an icon in the eyes of someone special, or it can cause relentless misery. Getting Valentine’s Day right has haunted both men and woman for years. Sure there are all the old standbys, chocolate hearts, flowers, cards, dinner, candles, but what if you could utilize all these and a romantic getaway? An enchanting bed and breakfast destination may just be the answer. Unlike a hotel, a bed and breakfast is a quaint alternative to lodging offering an “at home”, comfy atmosphere. Like the name implies, a bed and breakfast basically is just that, however, for Valentine’s Day, many offer much more. From gourmet breakfast in your room, to a dozen roses, champagne and rose petals, the options are expansive to ensure your visit is memorable. If you live in the Washington, D.C. area, there are countless options. We found several bed and breakfast locations that offer a taste of romance and a great destination, and all within a two hour drive.
Brampton Inn – Chestertown, Maryland
Located on Maryland’s eastern shore and near historic attractions, the Brampton Inn is a plantation house dating to the 19th century. It offers accommodations to suit most budgets, with rooms starting at $199 with queen bed and en-suite bath. The Brampton has several suites starting at $229 and, like all other accommodations, has an en-suite bath and working fireplace. If ultimate privacy is what you are seeking, then a cozy cottage with a wood burning fireplace, a spa or a whirlpool tub, and king size bed may fit the bill. Cottages run from $229 to $419 a night. All stays include a full breakfast (can be delivered to the cottages), afternoon tea, homemade cookies, and drinks.
A Valentine’s Day special is available along with other specials. Your room can be romance ready when you arrive. A dozen roses, chocolate dipped strawberries, a chilled bottle of champagne and scattered rose petals can greet you in your room for an extra fee.
Jacob Rohrbach Inn – Sharpsburg, Maryland
Nestled in history, the Jacob Rohrbach Inn charms its guests with accommodations filled with antiques of an era gone. The inn was built in 1804 in the middle of the historic area, within walking distance to restaurants, taverns and Antietam Battlefield. Within twelve miles of Harpers Ferry, two vineyards and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Park, makes this inn a great destination getaway. The rooms boast en-suite baths, comfy beds and include a gourmet breakfast. Prices begin at $148 a night to $206 a night for the Generals Quarters, a cozy, romantic cottage. Reservations are required. Check in time is from 3 pm – 8pm and checkout time is by 11am.
When you make reservations be sure to ask about their “Roses and Chocolate” special. It offers a free half dozen roses, and a box of DeFluris chocolates with a two night stay.
Woodruff Inn – Luray, Virginia
Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the Woodruff Victorian Inn is a romantic retreat with an “European Flair”. If antique shopping or visiting the largest caverns on the east coast interests you, then this is the destination for you. Each fireside suite boasts a four poster bed, chandelier, balcony and a Jacuzzi tub for two. Each room is decorated in romantic Victorian fashion. Prices for the suites start at around $154 and run to about $200 a night. Check in time is 3:30pm and check out time is 11am. The inn offers a restaurant on the premises serving a full American breakfast which is included in your stay. Three course dinners are served, but not included, and reservations for dinner are strongly recommended.
The Woodruff Inn is offering two romantic packages that include accommodations. The first package starts at $189 and includes one night stay, half a dozen roses, chocolate strawberries or truffles, and a bottle of champagne. The second package includes a two night stay, a dozen roses, chocolate strawberries or truffles, a fruit and cheese tray, and a bottle of champagne.