St. Francisville Inn

"How did it strike you on arrival?The landscaped grounds and gardens of this historic inn couldn’t be more evocative of Antebellum tranquillity, framed as they are by Spanish Moss and oak trees. The façade dates back to the late 19th-century and its ornate arches and tall window shutters are movie-set perfect. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Guests range from people in town for the weekend from New Orleans to couples on road trips, stopping off at historic towns such as St. Francisville. Either way it’s a mature, well-turned out clientele that pays a little more for interesting properties such as this rather than anonymous national chains. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The ten rooms (the property straddles the casual line between inn and bed and breakfast) are arranged around a quiet brick courtyard. My King Room was unsurprisingly very traditional, with floral wallpaper, leather-backed armchairs and lace bedding. The furniture was reproduction rather than period, but retiring there after a day’s sightseeing at least maintained the illusion of the more comfortable aspects of century-old hospitality. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The bathrooms probably present as a little dated if you’re more familiar with fashionable boutique hotels, but their rural charm was complemented by reassuringly modern plumbing. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?The place feels remote, but thankfully Internet speeds are on a par with the big city. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.One of the Inn’s most alluring aspects is their famed Wine Parlor, set in the main building. The owners have collected a cellar impressive enough for people to drive out especially. Breakfast time offers a few equally pleasing surprises, with rolled savory crepes, quiches and andouille sausages lining up with the more usual morning buffet suspects. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?A glass of wine at sunset as shafts of light broke through the Spanish Moss. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If you’re staying in St. Francsiville, it’s really the only accommodation option with any character, and worth a little extra for the memories." - Paul Oswell