Five Hidden Fall Getaways in Massachusetts
Photo courtesy of the Federal House Inn
New England in the fall is truly an experience like no other—the summertime heat has melted away, allowing for the trees to don their best and brightest shades. Instead of waxing poetic on the region’s autumnal beauty, though, we’ll leave you to see it for yourself. Here, find five hidden getaways that make for the perfect fall escape.
Photo courtesy of the Federal House Inn
The Federal House Inn—South Lee, Massachusetts
Tucked away in the Berkshires, this inn is the definition of picturesque. Built in 1824, it’s aptly named after its architectural style, with large windows that allow visitors to admire the beautiful mountains the inn is surrounded by.
New owners Marcia and Ken Anderson “retired” and took over the inn five months ago. Prior to that, Marcia was a labor and delivery nurse and Ken worked in radiology.
“Decorating is so much fun,” says Marcia. “We purchased this inn because we could see it lending itself to our white-on-white slightly minimalist style while also incorporating my twenty years as an antique dealer.”
Each room is complete with its own fireplace, making the spot a true home away from home. With hiking, biking, skiing, museums, and theaters nearby, there’s no excuse not to explore the beautiful colors fall has to offer. From daily complimentary wine in the living room to a guest pantry filled with hot chocolate and tea, this spot is a perfect way to escape the noise of the city.
The Federal House Inn, 1560 Pleasant St., South Lee, MA, federalhouseinn.com.
Photo courtesy of the Old Manse Inn
The Old Manse Inn—Brewster, Massachusetts
Fit for the noblest of sea captains, the Old Manse Inn was built in 1801 and has been home to countless seafarers over the years. Each room contains inlaid fireplaces, and impressive marine and landscape paintings can be found adorning the inn’s time-honored walls. The Old Manse also features a hilltop porch and patio for a relaxing lookout onto the two acres of terraced gardens, complete with chestnut and maple trees that are centuries old.
Aside from its antique charm, the Old Manse Inn offers complimentary bikes to explore town, discounts on excursions, access to horseback riding facilities, and connections to a spa to really get your relaxation on.
The Old Manse Inn, 1861 Main St., Brewster, oldmanseinn.com.
Photo courtesy of Seven South Street Inn
Seven South Street Inn—Rockport, Massachusetts
This quaint nine-room bed and breakfast has been operated by Debbie and Nick Benn for 17 years. Every day, the inn starts with a four-course gourmet breakfast. A peek at the menu reveals peaches and cream Belgian waffles and eggs Benedict served on a warm croissant.
Guests can relax in beautifully decorated rooms or explore the city of Rockport to indulge in pumpkin-flavored treats by the sea. Then, there’s the option to head Halibut Point State Park. It overlooks the Ipswich Bay and offers views of the red, orange, and yellow coastline.
The inn, which was built 10 years before the creation of the United States, is a short commuter rail ride from Boston. Plus, the inn provides train pickup for guests.
Seven South Street Inn, 7 South St., Rockport, sevensouthstreetinn.com.
Photo courtesy of Bluefish Bed and Breakfast
Bluefish Bed and Breakfast—Harwich, Massachusetts
This mid-1800s bed and breakfast is located in Historic Harwich Center on Cape Cod. Owned by hospitality industry veterans Tim O’Brien and Lori Schiraga, the inn was restored with Cape Cod antiques and collectibles, creating a uniquely relaxing experience. They’re joined by their dog, Tye, who makes every stay feel like home.
There are three different types of suite-style rooms, each with its own distinct flair. The Sunset Suite is blanketed in tones of red and orange, while the rustic-feeling Captain’s Room is accented with antique wood furnishings. Bluefish’s organic breakfast is made with ingredients grown in the nearby garden.
“Our guests always enjoy and remark about the beauty and taste of our organic and locally grown breakfasts prepared by Tim,” says Schiraga. “We are best know for our creative and uniquely fresh breakfasts as well as our inviting and peaceful ambiance.”
Bluefish Bed and Breakfast, 102 Parallel St., Harwich, bluefishbnb.com.
Photo courtesy of the Hawthorne Inn
The Hawthorne Inn—Concord, Massachusetts
Named after the famed Nathaniel Hawthorne, this stucco Italianate is not only a luxury inn but a historic treasure. The land the inn stands on was once owned by a series of notable New Englanders including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Louisa May Alcott’s family.
Each of the seven guest rooms has a historically relevant name, like the the Alcott Room, the Concord Room, and the Emerson Room. The rooms boast original artwork and soothing color schemes.
The Hawthorne’s menu features an award-winning dish called the “Hickory Dickory Bosc,” a delightfully sweet pear dessert. The dish won first prize in the national “Inn-Credible Breakfast Cook-Off,” beating out more than 400 inns. A full gourmet breakfast is served every morning in the living room next to a huge fireplace.
The Hawthorne Inn plans to begin major renovations at the end of October 2016.
The Hawthorne Inn, 462 Lexington Rd., Concord, hawthorneinnconcord.com.
