I have a new favorite place, and I can't wait to go back. Upscale but comfortable surroundings, delicious food options, tons of nearby outdoor recreation, and an infinity pool with views to die for make my new favorite place one I hope to return to time and time again.
Described as "European elegance on the Potomac," the Bavarian Inn really does offer guests an almost-magical feeling of being transported far, far away on a luxurious vacation - but it's actually less than an hour from home. We went with our kids and had a ball, but it's proximity makes it an ideal destination for a quick romantic getaway (a fact I pointed out to my husband once or twice while we were there). In fact, several of the guests we chatted with around the pool said they stay at the Bavarian Inn every single year for their anniversary. I can see why!
The Bavarian Inn is a AAA 4-Diamond Boutique Resort situated on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. That view is particularly spectacular to take in from the infinity pool, where I could have happily lived out the rest of my days, but I can imagine how gorgeous it is during peak fall foliage too. With fine dining, a brew pub, tennis, a huge firepit, and 72 lovely rooms, guests get the invigorating feeling of having plenty to do and the luxurious feeling of not having to do a thing. It's the best of both worlds!
Each of the resort's buildings is a nod toward its Bavarian heritage, not only in architecture and decor but also in name. We stayed in the Grand Family Suite of the Bodensee, and were fairly speechless upon arrival. Not only does each room have a private balcony overlooking the river, luxurious bedding, and tranquil ambiance, but it was also easily the largest hotel room we've ever stayed in. If you're going with just your spouse, any room would do. But if you're traveling with tweens, the Grand Family Suite couldn't be more perfect. My husband and I had a king bed, fireplace, sitting area, and private bathroom. In the middle was a living room with two velvet couches, TV, mini-fridge, desk, another bathroom, and some board games. And adjoining that was the room my kids stayed in, with two queen beds and their own private bathroom. We're fairly used to cramming into one 'normal' hotel room, but the Bavarian Inn accommodated us so well, I'll be booking that exact suite whenever we get back.
Another thing the Bavarian Inn does exactly right is dining options. You can eat in the formal dining room, at Bavarian Brothers Brewing, in the more casual Rathskeller, on the patio, poolside, or even in your room with room service. We sampled the classic German dishes, and also enjoyed club sandwiches, breakfast pastries, fried green tomatoes, and plenty of snacks and drinks from the Infinity 101 poolside bar.
If you like beer, don't miss the Bavarian Brothers Mecklenbrau - named for Mecklenburg, which was the original name for Shepherdstown. While exploring adorable downtown Shepherdstown we ate at a place called Mecklenburg and were astonished to learn that it first opened in 1793! There was cool history all around us, and all the biking, hiking, and water sports you could hope for. My middle schooler says she'll be going to college at Shepherdstown because it is "so cute," and that's fine by me; I'll be a regular at the Bavarian Inn!
Next time you need a little getaway, check out the Bavarian Inn.
They say "the only thing we overlook is the river," and I couldn't agree more.
www.bavarianinnwv.com
304-876-2551
Disclosure: I was hosted for the purposes of this review, but as always all opinions are my own.
