When traveling, there are some people with the mentality of “We won’t be in the room much anyway.” Simply put, I am not one of those people. This beautiful Inn and Spa I am about to share with you is a destination, not a means to an end.
Upon arriving at the Mayflower Inn & Spa, now owned by the Auberge Resorts Collection, you immediately feel as if you have been transported into a serene oasis. Passing through the town center in Washington, Connecticut, you see plenty of quaint white clapboard and lush greenery. I can only dream what it looks like in the fall, covered in golden tones.
You may almost miss the simple sign to the Mayflower, up a winding hilly road near a small creek. When you pull up to reception, you feel as if you are coming into a beautiful home. Old world charm immediately greets you. The decor is in line with the aesthetic: discreetly chic and warmly comforting.
The grounds are immaculately kept. A beautiful porch full of wicker rockers and deep green shutters overlooks a shakespeare garden of hedged boxwood and alliums. If I am describing a dream, that is exactly how it felt.
We checked into the deluxe suite which was perfectly patterned with blue & white, a cozy fireplace, and bookshelves filled with novels new and old. The books were the perfect hint that this is a place you stay for awhile. Cushy armchairs by the fire and a glass carafe of port were the perfect spot for a fun late night chat with my best friend. A super convenient escape for her being less than two hours outside of her apartment in NYC.
We went to The Tap Room for some pre-dinner cocktails. The bar tender, Orlando, made excellent cocktails. I took a Bee’s Hive (like a Bee’s Knees) and my friend, Lauren, had a Hibiscus Gimlet. Both were delish. The Tap Room is clearly the buzzy place for guest and locals alike. Vibrant conversations and warm fires made for the ideal ambience.
We then had dinner on the porch of the main restaurant. A little chilly, but worth it to feel a world away from anyone and everyone. We chose the tasting menu with wine pairing for some added fun. Everything was exceptional and the wine sommelier was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about wine. It was a truly memorable meal. Intimate and full of charm. Of course, we reconvened with Orlando at the bar and closed it down. The live piano music made it feel full, when it was really only a few couples, friends, and families around.
The next morning was really the main highlight of it all. The spa at the Mayflower is NOT to be missed. Before you even check in, you take off your shoes and put slippers on. Please believe me when I say I have been to quite a few spas, and this is my new Number 1!
Despite being designed in 2006, the spa felt as if I was transported in a Nancy Meyer movie. Chenille slipcovered lounge chairs and blankets, a beautiful pool surrounded by windows overlooking hedges of boxwood and tall trees. The facility was impeccable. The minute after I took a shower, the attendant cleaned and dried the entire space. The second I dropped a towel in a wicker bin, it was picked up to be laundered. The service was exceptional. I could have spent all day there and beyond. The gift shop mirrored a small boutique with unique finds.
I really wanted a “merch purch,” which is a very trendy way to say a branded item that says “Mayflower Inn & Spa” on it. I also really wanted matches that said that as well (I collect them). Because Auberge has recently taken over the property, they were in the process of rebranding and didn’t have any. I didn’t fret though, because this is a place where there will absolutely be a
“next time.”
If you live in New York City, this escape would be incredibly addicting. If you live anywhere else, it will still feel the same way. It is an expensive price tag, but worth every penny to truly feel transported into another world. A world in which I would happily live daily. Definitely a 10/10!
Look for my post tomorrow on where to shop when you do visit the
Mayflower Inn & Spa!
This stay was not sponsored, but a media rate was applied to my stay.