They say that Virginia is for lovers, and after a stay at the romantic L’Auberge Provençale French Country Inn in the lush Shenandoah Valley, that proclamation is sure to ring true. For over 30 years, innkeepers Celeste and Alain Borel have made it their mission to provide the most authentic reflection of their Provençal heritage within every detail of L’Auberge. From the well-designed rooms and suites, and award-winning restaurant, to the beautifully maintained garden, orchard, and grounds, the couple has offered guests a true French countryside experience right here in America.
The original building, known as Mount Airy, was purchased for 33 shillings in the mid-1700s. It is said to be one of the oldest houses in the county, and after careful renovation, the Borels now feature Mount Airy as their beautiful dining space and intimate 11-room inn. Three miles away lies their sister property, Villa la Campagnette, which offers three more guest rooms and beautiful 18 acres, perfect for outdoor events.
But the main draw for many visitors to this special retreat, just one hour away from Washington, D.C., is the food. Chef and owner Alain Borel, along with executive chef Benedict Zappone, create seasonal menus that change daily, highlighting the best of French cuisine and the farmers that supply the local fare. The restaurant uses several ingredients from the property’s own garden and orchard, including many things grown from seed that Alain brought from France.
Three- and five-course, or special Chef’s Tasting dinners are available within the unique dining rooms, as well as the lauded breakfast, featuring from-scratch baked goods, preserves, and savory delights. Guests of L’Auberge Provençale also enjoy touring the many nearby wineries (Linden Vineyards, Barrel Oak Winery, Pearmund Cellars, Three Fox Vineyards, Delaplane Cellars, and Veramar Vineyard), which provide the fine Virginia wines for the inn’s international wine cellar, honored with the Wine Spectator 2011 Best of Award of Excellence.
CONTACT
Reservations: 800-638-1702; 540-837-1375
celebrate@laubergeprovencale.com
laubergeprovencale.com
13630 Lord Fairfax Highway
Boyce, VA 22620
Rates: $170 and up
SPECIAL NOTES
Restaurant, romantic getaway, culinary events, weddings and receptions, executive retreat meetings.
Touring & Tasting is a media company that produces a wine and travel magazine and is also partner in the Hitched Wine Club.
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