The Cut

Archive for the ‘Bed & Breakfast’ Category

The surf and sand may define Hawaii, but it was the volcano’s that created these paradise islands. The largest of the islands also has the longest name of its resort, Big Island Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Mountain View Inn. We are stopping at a four-acre garden and fishpond estate in full view of Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in the world.

In this most tranquil setting are some of the worlds most exotic plants and flowers. Native to the islands are Ohia and rose apple trees and rivaling the fragrant magnolias of the east we find heliconia, ginger and anthuriums. Even the suites are a reminder of the flora of the region.

Our first stop is in the Cherry Blossom Suite. The new side room addition comes complete with coffeemaker and complimentary native Kona coffee. As would be expected, this room overlooks the Cherry Blossom tree as well as the fishpond and estate garden. A colorful quilt covers the king sized bed and a matching one is on the twin bed/sofa. Read the rest of this entry »

Idaho is more than just mines and potatoes. Located on the south fork of the Snake River is The Blue Heron Inn. It’s rustic exterior gives way to unmatched luxury and hospitality. Many of the neighbors will be seen walking by, such as moose and deer. Making their home in the nearby woods one can find Squirrels, Marmots, raccoons, beavers and foxes. It is not uncommon to see Blue Herons fishing for their next meal in the nearby Snake River or see eagles and osprey flying overhead. Nothing about Idaho is small as can be seen by the size of the rooms at the Blue Heron Inn.

The namesake room, The Blue Heron Suite is larger than some houses, or so it appears. The king size bed in the center of the room facing the French doors takes up less than a quarter of the space. For those chilly Idaho nights there is even a river rock fireplace.

At first glance, the décor of the Canyon Suite is reminiscent of the southwest. One is reminded of the Navajo when the king sized bed is first viewed. The French doors open to a private balcony allowing breathtaking views of the south fork of the Snake River.

The ducks of the same name inspired the Mallard room. A handmade quilt adorns the log bed and is accompanied by the pine furniture. For a more private retreat, the Carriage house is a second floor room attached to the innkeeper’s residence. Since we are in the west, the Bunkhouse Suite is expected. You will think you’ve stepped into history with all the log furnishings. The handcrafted pine queen sized bed is the centerpiece of the Southfork Suite. Idaho’s state bird is honored in the Blue Bird Suite. Here we find a brass bed with a marble topped dresser.

Chepachet, Rhode Island is a beautiful place.  Blueberry Pointe on the Lake fits in well with the beauty. Every Blueberry Pointe on the Lake room features the tranquility and splendor of lakefront backdrop, a private bath, ultra-plush mattress, designer linens and towels, and a famed gourmet breakfast. They furthermore include complimentary wine, hot tub use, a private beach, and kayaks, canoe, and paddle boat.

Birds flourish on Sand Dam Reservoir in the summer. The protection of the lake becomes a meeting place for mallards and geese.  The kingfisher dives into the lake, beak first, and captures fish.  Nesting herons squawk and flap up into the wind after victorious frog feasts.
 
Blueberry Pointe land is bordered by Nature Conservancy land which links acres of woodlands to neighboring ponds, wetlands, and forests all the way to the Connecticut border. The staff has maps, field guides and binoculars to borrow, and they offer a reservation service for local activities and restaurants.

The Sunrise Suite is a bright accommodation with a separate private bath, tub and dual showerheads.  The bedroom and sitting area has a queen size bed strewn with plush pillows.  A TV with DVD and a stereo system are included for your enjoyment. One special amenity in the Sunrise Suite is this antique cast iron faux fireplace on a tiled hearth surrounded by a custom built mahogany mantel.

The spacious Moonlight Suite is located on the second floor of the main house and comprises the master bedroom, a private bath, and a sitting area/library. The Master Suite is lit by a wall of windows capped by a large half-round.  The view to the grounds and the lake beyond is inviting yet promotes privacy.

These are just two of the rooms available at the Blueberry Pointe.  There is a room to suit nearly every preference.