The INNside Scoop

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Sevierville, TN

Mackintosh Suite

     I experienced my first B&B in Scotland over thirty years ago, and I have been hooked on bed and breakfast inns since that time. So, as soon as I heard about a Scottish-themed B&B on this side of the Atlantic, I could hardly wait to check it out.
   Nightfall had just settled in as I drove up the winding mountain road to Braeside, but the lights dotting the valley below seemed to reflect the starry sky above. I knew this would be a magnificent spot for viewing a sunrise as well as a sunset, and I  looked forward to seeing each at some point during my visit.
   Once the perfect spot was located, one with a spectacular panoramic vista of the Smokies, Braeside Inn was custom-built to serve as a B&B; it opened in May 2004. Wendy (a Scottish lass born and raised in Scotland) and Tom Lynde, the congenial owners and resident innkeepers, thoughtfully designed their inn with

their future guests’ comfort and enjoyment in mind—and their careful planning shows in every aspect of their delightful  inn as well as in their role as nurturing  innkeepers.
   Breakfast at Braeside is always a treat, and a homemade dessert is offered each evening. Early coffee is available for those rising with the sun.
   Before leaving, I saw an unforgettable sunrise and sunset from Braeside’s rocking chair-studded deck with Mt. Le Conte looming in the distance. My visit to Braeside was more than just a “wee bit” wonderful, and I am anxious to return for more Scottish charm.

 Strong Points

   Hospitality plus, location & setting, gourmet breakfast, evening dessert, attention-to-detail, décor & furnishings, Scottish theme, fresh flowers, fireplaces in guest/common rooms, expansive deck.

Tacoma, WA

  Walking through the rose garden, I feel enveloped by a sense of magic. The storybook-like cottage seems to be awaiting my arrival with outstretched arms, and I can hardly wait to receive its full embrace.
   Rose Cottage Guest House, located in a historical part of Tacoma near Puget Sound, exudes a whimsical personality laced with creative attention-to-detail. From the hand-painted murals, throughout the six-room cottage, to the newly added side porch, this is a place where a smile crosses one’s face as a new surprise surfaces at every turn.
   Myrna and Bill Casey, owners and innkeepers, opened their B&B in April 2002 after almost three years of painstakingly remodeling and refurbishing the 75-year-old cottage. The results are stunning. The Caseys have also perfected their innkeeping to an art. They allow their guests the total privacy a stay in the cottage

ensures; yet, they are accessible whenever help is needed.
   Each morning Myrna delivers a gourmet breakfast and sets it up next to a window framing the quaint garden. The red vintage refrigerator is stocked with complimentary beverages, and a cookie jar is re-filled each day with homemade cookies–perfect for munching while swinging on the relaxing balustraded porch.
   The magnetism of Rose Cottage Guest House is tenacious and remains even after guests return home.

Strong Points

   Hospitality plus, location & setting, amenities, décor, garden, attention-to-detail, breakfast, full kitchen, complimentary refreshments, bath w/Jacuzzi & double-headed shower, good lighting.

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