The Inn at Saxtons River has always been a special place for my wife and myself. We have visited the inn at least four times prior. The first time was years ago when Jeremy was our host and we had a wonderful and romantic time. He was charming and made our stay memorable. Since that point, we returned but did not enjoy the same experience from the new owners.
As it turns out, the inn has changed ownership a few times with varying degrees of success. However, one thing remains the same, the inn provided my wife and I with fond memories and a romantic atmosphere, even if we had to create it ourselves.
All this leads me to our most recent trip a few weeks ago. My wife surprised me with a Valentine's Day weekend at the inn. We both love Vermont and taking day trips to Manchester, Woodstock and West Dover or visiting other local towns from where we are staying. The snow and cold just adds to the special feeling, nothing like Vermont in the winter.
We arrived on the Thursday prior to Valentine's Day and were warmly greeted with a smile by Sarah, the new owner. She offered to show us to our room. We climbed the beautiful wood trimmed stairway to the second floor.We were actually given the choice of two rooms and told to pick our favorite. We decided on a room with a view of the main street. The view was typical New England of the beautiful, freshly fallen snow and some of the charming homes across the street.
The room itself was warm and charming. We especially enjoyed the old style sofa which was worn but very comfortable. The room looked freshly painted and was just what we expected. Sleeping accommodations in this particular room, featured two twin beds. We opted for the one closest to the window. The mattress left a little to be desired as it sunk in the middle but it would be acceptable for a couple of nights. Some of the curtins were falling off their rods but I adjusted them so they would close properly.
Outside the room in the hallway, located on an antique table, was a coffee machine featuring individual pods. I enjoy coffee when I want it so this was a nice touch. We settled in and decided to go downstairs to the convenient bar/restaurant located in the front. The bar itself is composed of beautiful, antique wood and is spectacular. The floors were unfinished hard wood and added to the atmosphere. We ordered some drinks and started to relax. The bar was filled with the "locals", all were very warm and friendly and exactly what we were looking for. The gas stove provided warmth and comfort from the bitter cold 4 degrees outside. Sarah would stop over and sit with us to chat and tell us about the inn and everything she is and wants to do to update the building. She purchased the inn late in 2014 from her family. It is no secret the inn needs some updates to the outside but everything costs money and it did not detract from our visit.
The bar was packed and fun. Not too loud and the place to be in town. Everyone was eating and all the food looked outstanding. We asked everyone if they enjoyed their meal and everyone was positive.
Across the hall from the bar/restaurant is a charming dining room decorated with some wonderful antiques, comfortable sofa's and chairs and some well placed tables for dining. The fireplace is warm and inviting and adds to the overall experience. The dinner menu consists of some well chosen entrees, inclusive of comfort food and some unique dishes as well. I enjoyed the meatloaf with cheese, in particular. The room is quite and dimly lit, ideal for conversation and romance. The staff is accommodating and friendly at both the dining room and bar.
Throughout our stay we enjoyed numerous conversations with Sarah and some of the local clientele. Sarah was informative telling us about her future plans for the inn and various update projects. She does not hide the fact that the inn is a little run down but I think the charm and new paint and décor inside, more than makes up for what is lacking. Some rooms are still in the process of being updated as time and money permit.
However, I would be remiss if I did not comment on the continental breakfast. It was more like a "Chevy". The first day offered some freshly baked scones, banana bread and coffee/tea. Day two offered some over ripe bananas, banana bread and a coupe of half full boxes of cereal. We often stay at inn/B&B's and have grown accustomed to fresh fruit, yogurt, muffins etc. In our case, we spent our money supporting the inn with dinners and drinks. It would be wise to take a few dollars from the income received and go next door to the market and purchase a little more variety. Overall, we recommend the inn to anyone looking to experience a romantic New England weekend with a wonderful innkeeper. Charlie and Joanna read more