of stucco and stone masonry, steep gabled roofs with dormers, and multiple chimneys belie its Tudor influence. Adorned throughout with European furnishings and art, Hillbrook is elegant, refined, timeless… Marcy Deck, resident innkeeper, lovingly articulates that Hillbrook is “refined without losing the heart and soul of the place. Everybody takes care of it as if it’s our own. And they take care of the guests as if they’re family too.” This is a place you never want to leave. In fact, just this October, Innkeepers Carissa and Chris Zanella celebrated 10 years at Hillbrook… and counting. The first owner, General Frank Bamford, was originally mesmerized by the guiles of Tudor style while in Normandy, France after the First World War, and his treasured estate was constructed during the 1920s. Some of the original Model T Fords were once parked in the garage which is now the tavern, as General Bamford and Henry Ford were lifelong friends. Seek out hidden nooks, narrow passageways, and winding staircases; devices or ‘riddles’ were often incorporated to demonstrate wit and delight visitors. It’s like a never-ending secret you want to keep exploring forever. The gracious and polished Ricardo will welcome you to the rustic yet elegant Bullskin Tavern, with its brass banister and snug interior. Wrap your fingers around a mug of hot apple cider (add a little spike of rum to make it a hot toddy) on chillier days, or the signature Hillbrook Bellini – Italian prosecco, ruby red grapefruit juice,
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and cranberry juice – in the summery months. Ah, quite refreshing, full of antioxidants – and bubbles too! What more could one ask for? How about some history? The benevolent and well-versed Ricardo will gladly oblige. He paints a vivid picture of the life and times of the fabled The graceful Hawthorn House and its Hillbrook. This sprawling 2,700-acre glorious play of light. tract was originally owned by George Washington’s family. As a surveyor for Lord Fairfax, young George was keenly aware of the lands available for purchase. Consequently, his younger brother Charles Washington settled here in a hunting lodge built in 1762, hence the neighboring Charles Town. Replenish yourself with breakfast on the bright Sun Porch with an orange blossom spice tea. Enjoy a respite in the parlor or the reading room, tickle the ivories in the tavern, or gather around the cozy hearth for a lively chat which such settings often inspire. A three- or five- course dinner in a historical manor by firelight is, of course, always a great privilege. Not to mention that Chef Justin is “poetry in motion.” Afterwards, head out to the fire pit just behind the Main House and sink deep into a sturdy wooden Adirondack chair complete with your s’mores kit and a quilt from the house to keep you nice and toasty. Out here in the countryside, marvel at the magnitude of the stars in the night sky. If you opt to stay at the Hawthorn House, you can engage in some celestial stargazing with the telescope in the solarium, as an immensity of stars fills the space beyond the stratosphere. Trust me, you’ll sleep well tonight, sinking into the luxurious beds of the inn. Settle in one of the eclectic guest rooms in the Main House. A stroll down a lighted stone path will lead you to the cottages, set among the evergreens. All are quaint little chambers, with gas log fireplaces, double whirlpool tubs, and private porches overlooking the vast lawn; the Summer Cottage and Winter Cottage have king-sized beds, with the Winter Cottage enjoying the best view. Impeccable touches such as a tiny beveled glass, wrought-iron peekaboo door hole continued on page 50
JANUARY // FEBRUARY 2015 ◊
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