The Perfect Romantic Weekend Getaway: Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Rhode Island

A few weeks ago, I headed up to Newport, Rhode Island. A picture-perfect town about 3.5 hours outside of New York City. While Newport is a popular summer destination, I was determined to enjoy it–even in the winter. My husband and I were looking for a last-minute weekend getaway that didn’t require having to take a plane (we only had two nights to spend) and had been dying to get back to Newport for some time now. Now, when you think of Newport in the summer stunning views of the water , outdoor cocktails and days spent at the beach probably come to mind. What you may not know is that Newport in the winter is just as romantic–snuggling by fireplaces, Five Star spas, fine-dining and wine–and you can still enjoy beautiful views of the water–from comfortably indoors. 

With Valentine’s Day coming up, I suspect many of you last-minute planners (guilty as charged) may be looking to do something to wow your sweetheart! Whether you’re surprising your sweetie for the weekend of or presenting them with a gift you plan to enjoy at a later date, consider planning a weekend escape to Castle Hill Inn–and before you ask, I have not been compensated in any way to write about this.

The iconic Newport hotel has teamed up with luxe lingerie superstar, Journelle to create the ultimate romantic getaway. The package is called Journelle Getaway and it includes a complimentary visit to the Atelier at Journelle in New York City for a private lingerie appointment and fitting to get you prepped for your romantic getaway. Guests then receive 15% off their purchase during their atelier fitting–and they have such cute little goodies, not just your typical lingerie. Couples are then whisked away to Newport for a two-night stay at Castle Hill Inn, where they will enjoy a special romance amenity and champagne upon arrival, complimentary daily breakfast and afternoon tea, a three-course dinner for two or a special Valentine’s Day dinner (gratuity included). The package also includes two tickets to any Newport Preservation Society mansion.

For those of you who don’t know, Castle Hill Inn and Resort is the finest resort in Newport and really an institution in the state. Its situated on a 40-acre peninsula and has its own beach–there are even romantic trails you can take to view the Castle Hill Lighthouse. The resort is famous for its Adirondack chairs on its recently renovated Lawn that invite you to come hither with cocktails as ships pass by and waves crash against the shores. While you may not be able to enjoy these outside, you can see them from the hotel’s restaurant. Castle Hill offers guestrooms in the main building or you can upgrade for extra privacy to a beachfront cottage, which faces the water as well as Newport Pell Bridge. Imagine stargazing, clambaking and bonfiring–can that be a word?–in style at what the New York Times has raved is the “best spot in town.”

And don’t even get me started on the food! I recently had the pleasure to dine here during my own weekend getaway. I experienced the Jazz brunch there and my husband and I both agree that it was one of the best brunches we’ve ever eaten. Period. Executive Chef Karsten Hart is a culinary genius. The food was all fresh and focused on serving local and seasonal ingredients. Everything, and I mean EVERYTHING is homemade here. From the fresh fruit preserves to the house-smoked salmon. One thing was more delicious than the next. My only regret was not eating more! That and not staying here. But there’s always next time (hint, hint to a certain husband who may be reading this post). 

The Journelle Getaway package is available through December 31, 2014. Rates start at $800, which to me seems pretty damn reasonable! It includes alot! What do you have planned for Valentine’s Day? Any fabulous getaways we should know about? Let us know in the comments!