Winter Getaway: Stone House Inn
Friday, January 21, 2011
In the dead of winter, even one night at the picturesque Stone House in Little Compton can power a body through an entire cold, snowy week in the city. And with off-season specials luring, it didn't take Five Things critic Sean DeBobes much time to get away and recharge his battery. Here are the things he wants you to know.
Getting there
When I arrived in the early dark of winter, the property was quiet but the lobby beckoned - warm, brightly lit, and inviting. After chatting with Stefanie at the desk about the history of the inn and its extensive renovations, I found myself suddenly speechless when I opened the door into the Heron Room. This well-appointed suite on the second floor of the property's beautiful wood barn was exquisite. Original paintings by local artist Deborah Baronas adorned the wall while a king bed with goose down pillows and a custom quilt by Denyse Schmitt drew me in like a siren’s song.
Dining
Happily, I am no stranger to The Stone House's gourmet restaurants. In the high season, Pietra offers superb Tuscan-inspired cuisine, and year-round, 1854 sets a full and tasty table of local specialties. Want to read everything about my night at 1854? Check here.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTRelaxing
Back in my room after dinner I uncorked a bottle of wine and lit the fireplace. And how delightful to have a big-city amenity out here in the country: I was able to plug my iPhone right into a wall-mounted docking station that played my
music on the Bose audio system integrated throughout the suite. Sliding open the giant wooden door to the grand bathroom revealed beautifully selected appointments. Cork floors with radiant heating and marble counters stunned me. A gorgeous blue and green tiled stall with a rainfall shower head was stocked with organic Red Flower bath amenities.
And then I turned around to see the giant Japanese soaking tub. I thought I would be doing environmental penance for weeks if I filled this enormous basin with hot water. Thankfully the Stone House has a comprehensive green plan that put my mind at ease (furniture made from reclaimed wood from the barn reconstruction, on-site bio-diesel conversion to fuel generators, rain-water collection to irrigate gardens and solar panels that power 100% of guest room lighting tell me that the Stone House wants me to be comfortable but only while considering the environment too).
In the morning
I awoke rejuvenated in the way that only a plush king-size bed affords, then sauntered over to the main house to enjoy a complimentary breakfast. An array of sliced fruits and breads greeted me, and chef quickly whipped up a frittata with smokey bacon, sweet caramelized onions and sharp cheddar.
After breakfast I knew my stay was coming to an end and I still needed to explore. I set out on foot across the great lawn and headed towards Round Pond. Winding my way along the path I enjoyed the blustery, invigorating breeze. As I walked up a small hill towards a crest overlooking the ocean I could hear the crashing waves. As I hit the peak and the salt air hit me I felt like the world belonged to me.
Adieu
Packing up my car after only 16 hours, I couldn’t believe how relaxed I was. I also couldn’t wait to find a reason to escape back to Little Compton and the Stone House. Let the next blizzard take me there.
Stone House Inn offers many great off-season packages. For more information, go to their Web site, here.
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