Blessed to have one of the most beautiful locations just a short two hour drive from my house. Newport, RI. First introduced to me as a teenager on one of my father's long Sunday drives. The ride around the island is breathe taking surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Summer " Cottages", there are so many things to do and see. You can tour the mansions of the gilded age , one of the most famous, The Breakers, home of the Vanderbilts , it boost 70 rooms and was designed by the famous architect Richard Morris Hunt. It was designed in the Italian Renaissance style and it's rooms are arranged around a large central hall. Rosecliff , is one of my personal favorites ever since I toured it as a young girl and then fell in love with it all over again when Robert Redford stared in the 1974 film, The Great Gatsby. It was modeled after the Grand Trianon, the garden retreat of French kings at Versailles. If you have always dreamed of a stunning mansion as a backdrop for your wedding, you're in luck. You can rent out the large ballroom and dance the night away overlooking the grand lawn that overlooks the ocean. Daily tours of the mansion are offered in season and also host several events throughout the year including the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival and the Newport Flower Show. Check the link for more information https://www.newportmansions.org.
The enchanted ballroom of Rosecliff is something little girls dream of when they think of a fairytale wedding.
One of the newest renovated mansions is Belcourt Mansion purchased by Alex and Ani
founder and CEO, Carolyn Rafaelain. She invested 15 million on renovations.
Jennifer Lawrence was married there last October.
If your looking to stay over night or have a few days to spare, Newport has some of the most luxurious inns and hotels. One of my favorites spots is Castle Hill Inn, built in 1875 this charming inn sits on a 40-acre peninsula bordering the ocean. You have a panoramic view of the Atlantic and you are sure to see the sailboats passing by. There is a feel of romance in the air and having a gourmet meal featuring New England cuisine is sure to make your heart sing. https://www.castlehillinn.com
I have been privileged to work with several couples who chose Castle Hill for their dream wedding. This couple sought to mix the rich colors of Autumn with the cool hues of Summer. These photos are from an ocean side ceremony at Castle Hill Inn, another reason to take a mini vacation in Newport, to scout out your dream wedding location. We would love to help you! https://www.lauriecatherinevents.com
With stunning ocean views, an expansive lawn for your guest to mingle , and a sense of history, Castle Hill Inn is the perfect spot to say I do!
Another delightful location is http://www.hydrangeahouse.com. We had the privilege of staying there last May and had a wonderful stay. We had a lovely room facing the front of the inn complete with a gas fireplace and an inviting jacuzzi tub. Audrain Cars and Coffee was being hosted by The Elms Mansion during our stay and it was nostalgic watching some of the carefully restored cars roll past. The Inn is a Bed and Breakfast and serves the most delicious morning meal in their tastefully decorated dining room at the front of the house. It sits on the prestigious Bellevue Avenue. While dining on a breakfast fit for the Vanderbilts, the Astors, and the Dukes, you get a glimpse into the old world feel of grace and elegance.
Dining Room at Hydrangea House Inn awaits its well rested guest.
A lovely garden sits at the rear of the property and makes for a perfect spot to relax from your day of mansion hopping.
Our last recommendation for this weeks blog is a Lark Hotel called https://www.gildedhotel.com/about-gilded. With its 17 designer rooms it offers a unique experience and gives its guest the opportunity to have a rousing game of billiards or a peaceful moment on the veranda.
I love all the designer touches throughout this boutique hotel, along with its pampered amenities such as luxury linens and a self serving curated small plate breakfast you are sure to start your day off well rested and fed.
Thanks for stoping by and taking a mini vacation with me, stop by next week for some of my favorite places to eat. Leave a comment, I would love to know your thoughts , let me know if you have stayed in Newport, RI and what are some of your favorite places.