Inns & Resorts....

A Virginia River Retreat:

The Tides Inn

The Tides Inn is one of Virginia's (and America's) special destinations and one of my favorite places to head for a very special river retreat. Located along the Virginia Northern Neck area, this east coast and Chesapeake Bay mecca provides an elegant waterfront weekend retreat unlike any other in the historic Old Dominion.

Captain John Smith may have described this area best: "Within is a country that may have the prerogative over the most pleasant places known, for large and pleasant navigable rivers, heaven and earth never agreed better to frame a place for man's habitation."

Within this country that Smith loved is The Tides Inn. Ann Lee ("Miss Ann") and E.A. Stephens opened this hospitable resort on July 15, 1947 with 46 rooms, a dining room, a bottle club, and a dream. Now people from around the world dream of their next stay at The Tides Inn.

Located in the quiet community of Irvington and situated on the shores of Carter's Creek, The Tides Inn offers an unsurpassed opportunity for relaxation and activity. The possibilities include: tastefully appointed accommodations; unforgettable yacht cruises aboard the legendary "Miss Ann" and other boating possibilities; 45 holes of highly-rated golf; tennis on fast-dry competition or all-weather courts; dancing and honeymoon parties in the inviting Chesapeake Club; acclaimed meals graciously served in impeccable dining rooms; luncheons and cocktails at the poolside Summer House, aboard the yachts, or at Cap'n B's at the Golden Eagle golf club; elegant shopping; playrooms, bikes, a beachside saltwater pool; unique evening entertainment; and an informal elegance and level of service that draw repeat visitors like few small resorts in the world.

The relaxing atmosphere of luxury--where coat and tie is still typical after 6:30pm--sets the scene for a unique stay. When I’m there, I can do as little (or as much) as you want during my visit. During the day, my choices might include an oyster roast, a luncheon cruise, a welcome party hosted by the Stephens family, parlor games, a movie, and much more.

In the evening, The Tides Inn dining experience provides the highlight for many guests. Dining has an old-style resort or classic cruise ship feel to it. The headwaiter assigns your table for the duration of your visit and you generally have the same waiter or waitress (some of whom have been there for decades) during your entire stay. The friendly wait staff enhances the excellent meals prepared by the award-winning kitchen. The Modified American Plan (breakfast and dinner) makes the dining experience even more elegant and enjoyable.

But any Tides Inn experience starts (and ends) with impeccable service from everyone at resort. From the yacht captain to the gardener to the owner, I'm always made to feel welcome. The staff becomes the primary reason that entire families and generations of loyal guests like me return for more than twenty consecutive seasons. It's a great place to start a river retreat tradition of your own.

Tides Inn guests can also enjoy the dining and other facilities available at The Tides Lodge, a sister resort located just across the water. This resort provides a more casual Northern Neck weekend option, which is ideal for many golfers and boaters.

The Tides Inn: 134 rooms, MAP. 1 (804) 438 5000 or 1 (800) TIDES INN, fax 804 438 5222, http://www.tidesinn.com