Bed and breakfasts dot New England like stars in the night sky. There are so many, it's sometimes difficult to decide on just one. Here are three standouts all in one county in Massachusetts easily reachable by car for most people in the northeast.
Franklin County is about a three-hour drive from Manhattan, two-hours from Boston and one-hour from Hartford. The area is famous for its villages of Northampton (ranked first out of 100 "best small art towns in America"), Deerfield and Shelburne Falls. All are known for their local artists, antique shopping, good dining experiences and theater. In Deerfield, be sure to try the Yankee Candle Company for both shopping and education. Snow bunnies might like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking at the Northfield Mountain Recreation Center or on trails throughout the valley. For more information on the county's attractions, including a calendar of events, visit www.franklincc.org or phone them at 413/773-9393.
In Northfield, The Centennial House is offering a Romantic Weekend for $299 (taxes not included). This includes two nights double occupancy, a bottle of wine upon arrival, full breakfast, a gourmet dinner and two admission tickets to the Butterfly Conservatory in Old Deerfield. For more information, visit www.thecentennialhouse.com or phone 413/498-5921 for reservations.
The Deerfield Inn, located in the 330-year-old town of Old Deerfield, is offering a twofer deal good for day of the week through April, 2003. This includes lodging with a queen-sized bed and an adjoining room with two twin beds, a country breakfast and afternoon tea and cookies, all for $188 (not including taxes). So you could easily have a family of four, or two couples, stay at this price. For more information, call the inn at 413/774-5587 or visit www.deerfieldinn.com.
In Greenfield, the Brandt House has weekend rates between $185-$205, but it's cheaper during the week when rates drop an extra $55--$130 for your room with a queen-size bed, $150 for a king-sized bed (this room also has its own fireplace). These prices are before tax and the do include your tasty country breakfast. For reservations, phone them at 800/235-3329 or visit www.brandthouse.com.
For information on other properties in the area, contact the county chamber of commerce at 413/773-5463 or e-mail fccc@crocker.com.