While it was rainy and dreary the day we arrived at Baird House the welcome we received from our hosts Tom and Deede Hinson brightened the day. We were made to feel at home from the minute we entered The Baird House.
Tom grabbed our luggage and showed us to our room, The Mary Elizabeth, before giving us a tour. The inn was full so I was unable to see other guest rooms but our room was just wonderful. Spacious but still cozy and comfortable, with a wood burning fireplace, flanked by two wing back chairs, plenty of current magazines, views of the river, queen size bed, desk and chair and private bath. The armoire held robes and the bath had all the necessary amenities.
Common areas include the living room, dining room, front porch and outdoor areas. Since the property fronts the Watauga River, swimming, tubing and fishing is just steps away.
Tom and Deede enjoy their guests and that is evidenced by the number who keep returning. One couple we met come back every year. In addition to the bottomless cookie jar, additional goodies were laid out during afternoon tea. Deede is a great cook and her southern breakfast was outstanding. I have to say her home made biscuits were the lightest and best we ever had. Breakfast consisted of a fresh fruit cup, a sausage, cheese and egg casserole, with grits and country ham. Those yummy bisquits were served with home made apple butter, strawberry and blackberry jams. Deede and Tom joined us as we all lingered over coffee. Conversation was lively and fun. Tom is very knowledgeable about the history of the house and was able to answer all questions posed to him. Deede is just plain fun and also very helpful about area attractions.
Because of the weather, we did not venture far for dinner and Tom directed us to a nearby bistro which we really enjoyed. It was also recommended that before leaving the area, we stop at the original Mast General Store, about a mile or so away. This mercantile store was busy and fun. There was even a blue grass group playing around the pot-bellied stove while we were there. We agree, it is a must stop in Valle Crucis. http://www.mastgeneralstore.com/
We do recommend the Baird House and the historic Valle Crucis area. For more info, please see: http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/north-carolina-valle-crucis-thebairdhouse.html
Rose Ciccone
Mail To: roseciccone@verizon.net
Associate Editor - BedandBreakfast.com Report
http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/report/Summer-06/index.htm
Contributing Editor - America's Favorite Inn's, B&B's and Small Hotels
Rose Ciccone
Mail To: roseciccone@verizon.net
Associate Editor - BedandBreakfast.com
http://blog.bedandbreakfast.com
http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/report/Fall-07/index.htm