During our trip to the Berkshires, our home base at The Federal House Inn became an integral part of what made out trip fantastic. The getaway was all about relaxation and Marsha and Ken made that easy. The beautiful property is designed for reclining in the scenic gardens with a cocktail. We spent a memorable evening sipping wine on the front porch in total peace. Coming from the city it was a dream to be outside without the sounds of people, and cars, and urban angst.
Although the inn is technically a bed-and-breakfast operation, it felt like we were being fed all day. Your morning starts with a three course gourmet breakfast. And we’re not talking dinky courses. One menu we had featured a strawberry rhubarb soup (pictured below), a made-from-scratch scone with maple butter, and a goat cheese and herb omelet. Not to mention every breakfast features Ken’s famous bacon, baked with brown sugar and cayenne.
Another morning Marsha swapped the scone for homemade crepes stuffed with cream and drizzled with this strawberry sauce. I’m considering driving back just for breakfast tomorrow!
Every evening Marsha serves wine and appetizers to prep you for the night ahead. We had ours daily at 4pm but she’ll serve them whenever you’re ready. Each day it was a different cheese, a fresh, locally made bread, and a new selection of fruit. Additionally, there are always freshly baked cookies out in the living room. Always. 24/7. Marsha heard my cousin loves chocolate and made brownies just for her! It’s unparalleled culinary service. Coffee, tea, and water are also always accessible.
My mom’s background is in interior design, she ran her own firm in Boston for a while, and she spent the whole trip taking pictures of Marsha’s decor to recreate at home. The house has a contemporary farm-chic feel with repurposed vintage finds and locally sourced everything. Marsha happily directed us to her favorite vintage shops to scout for our own goodies.
As you can imagine, the inn is booked solid on weekends. If you want to head out there on a weekend this fall I recommend booking immediately. There’s a little more flexibility during the week if you can get away, and it’s nice to have the inn, and the Berkshires, more to yourself.
There are a variety of rooms options with different features. I stayed in Whitney’s Suite which was enormous and boasted a fireplace, sitting area, views of the street, and, of course, adjacent bathroom. My aunt and cousin stayed in Nancye’s Suite which is the whole third floor of the house. A great option for families or groups, it features two queen sized beds in one room and a sofa bed in another room, plus two bathrooms.
I’m often wary of bed-and-breakfasts which can sometimes have an outdated sensibility in both decor and functionality, but the Federal House Inn was truly a home away from home. You simultaneously feel as though you’re in a luxury hotel and visiting dear friends. It’s the best of both worlds.
Please note, I was provided with a complimentary stay at Federal House Inn for review purposes. All opinions expressed are my own.