This is a sponsored post on behalf of The Great Tree Inn, a Chautauqua Lake Bed and Breakfast in New York. I was offered a free weekend stay in exchange for an open and honest review. Thank you for supporting me, my blog, and now my romantic getaways. If there’s ever a baby number two, it’s on you.
(This picture is from their website and was taken during warmer weather. When we went, there was snow on the ground, and a chill in the air, with a Winter Wonderland vibe.)
Oh my god, you guys, the Hubby and I had our first solo vacation since before the tiny human was born. Alone time. Just the pair of us. For two blissful nights and one fun-filled day.
I’ll be honest, when The Great Tree Inn offered us a weekend stay, I jumped at the opportunity. It was a break we both desperately needed. I would have stayed in a one bedroom shack, with a rusty mattress, moldy towels, and no food if it meant some together time with my partner in crime.
Thankfully, The Great Tree Inn far exceeded my expectations. They had soft, clean towels, the most relaxing atmosphere, some of the tastiest breakfasts and an enormous King sized bed. Bow chick-a-wow-wow.
(Don’t come a knockin’ if the bedroom is rockin’.)
Our weekend was perfectly lovely, utterly quaint and entirely restful. We had full conversations with one other, a novel concept these days since we’re usually interrupted by the tiny human every thirty seconds, demanding our full attention. We also toured the 1850’s farm house and took advantage of every single seating nook. I legit started and finished a book during our stay.
(Pro Tip: these chairs recline.)
This bed and breakfast stayed true to its origins with some of the most beautiful antiques. I considered absconding with the glorious chest of drawers in our bedroom, except it weighed a thousand pounds and would be considered criminal activity, and I wanted to return in the future.
Despite the very large and solid furniture, the whole house had a warm and inviting feel, starting with the fresh chocolate chip cookies which were there upon our arrival, to the small fridge filled with water and yogurts to the coffee and tea bar, available twenty four seven. Be still my caffeine loving heart.
The whole place was bursting with charming little touches, which made me smile and feel even more at home. I’m a fan of the small details, and this place had them in spades. Each bedroom had its own bathroom, complete with bathrobes, makeup removal pads, a hair dryer, and cozy slippers which greeted you at the front door, along with the owners Mark and Sheila.
Mark and Sheila, the new dynamic duo, are a friendly and down to earth couple, who exchanged their routine life in the city for the adventure of owning a small bed and breakfast in the country. They are more than just home owners and gracious hosts though. They also run a working farm, complete with a flock of furry friends.
I got to meet a stable full of horses, a plethora of chickens and ducks, who have free reign of the barn in the winter and the entire yard in warmer weather. I also became acquainted with Herman the barn cat, several donkeys and the friendliest goat imaginable. No yoga necessary.
(This is Zonk. He rubbed my leg with his horns, which means we’re besties now. Don’t tell Oscar.)
A benefit of the family farm, aside from the whole manual labor keeping you in shape bit, is half of my breakfast came right from the barn twenty feet away. Thank you Winston (just one of the chickens who laid my eggs). The other half came from local business’ right in the area. Talk about a farm to table movement. From the backyard to my plate, all in the same day. It feels good to know where my edibles are coming from.
(A Mediterranean duck and chicken egg scramble, maple glazed bacon, fresh cantaloupe and a veggie infused hash rendered with bacon fat.)
(Mini German pancakes with diced apples, fresh apple syrup, watermelon and sausage patties.)
(The breakfast area, complete with tables for two or four or six, depending on the size of your party.)
Honestly, the entire experience was wonderful, and not just because we left our sexual kryptonite at home with my in-laws (Sorry Ave, but it’s true). Located only two hours away from Cleveland, I’m already looking forward to a return visit in the Spring with my girlfriends, so we can escape to the local wineries, check out the world renowned Chautauqua Institute and head over to Lily Dale for a day of spiritual enlightenment.
If you’re ever in the Chautauqua area, or just looking for a restful refuge, The Great Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast is the ideal getaway. I highly recommend it. Please be sure to tell Mark, Sheila, and Zonk I said Hi.
Have you ever stayed at a bed and breakfast? What are some of your favorite travel experiences?
Laurie says
Looks like the perfect place for a romantic getaway weekend! I would definitely have tried to smuggle Zonk home in my suitcase! 🙂
Laurie recently posted…Hope is Not a Resting Place
Meghan says
Zonk was amazing.
I couldn’t recommend this place more. You should check it out with your Hubby.
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
danielle says
this looks incredible and well deserved . i’d love to take myself there! i’m obsessed with B&B’s another reason i love the UK. gosh, can i join your girl trip there??? i might just take myself no joke 🙂
Meghan says
Yes absolutely. Join us on the girl’s trip! The more, the merrier.
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
Knowing that it was a sponsored thing make the story in your last message even funnier. I commend you. LOL!
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table recently posted…5 Things Your Mother Didn’t Tell You About Getting Older
Meghan says
Takes a bow. 🙂
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
Brittany says
I LOVEE THIS PLACE OMG!! I started staying at B&B’s when I traveled to Europe last year, and now they are MY FAVORITE!! I stayed at a handful again when visiting Scotland last month, and I just adore the people that run them. Always so friendly, and the food is so good. I am so happy you two were able to do this, and FO FREE!!!
Meghan says
True B&B’s are everything. The next time you’re in town, we’ll go.
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
Jen @ Chase the Red Grape says
Just perfect. I remember watching your instagram stories from here and just feeling a sense of ease and peace. They have created a wonderful relaxing space for people to come and enjoy some time on the farm and I am so glad they gave you the opportunity to come and visit.
Meghan says
It was amazing. I can’t wait to go back.
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
Cora says
Yeah this place is what heaven must be. I’m so glad you shared this so I could vicariously feel all the cozy, warming, welcomed feelings. Thank you.
I’m so excited for you to bring those same ladies you had over this past week to enjoy this as well.
Cora recently posted…Things That Made Me Stop: Fab Finds Friday #18
Meghan says
It was cozy, warm and welcoming. I’m definitely looking forward to going back.
Meghan recently posted…Week In Review: Down But Not Out Edition (#156)
Lindsay Cotter says
Um yes, you take that offer and then you stay for a whole week and invite me. K? I”ll bring the wine. Love that you got away!