In the late 1800s, shipbuilder Rufus Burgess purchased a plot of land in Wolfville, Nova Scotia to build a large estate that would serve as a testament to his wealth and success.
More than a century later, the Laceby family transformed the property into the Blomidon Inn.
Since 1988, the family has operated the 29-room inn, now a “Signature Inn” in Nova Scotia. It’s the perfect place for a home-base in Wolfville or while wine-tasting in the Annapolis Valley.
The Laceby sons Michael and Sean oversee the management of the inn. Mike runs inn operations; Sean manages the kitchen.
In addition to the guest rooms–which range from $109 to $269 per night–and the lovely gift shop, the inn features an on-site restaurant that received the “Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator Magazine and is known for its fresh seafood and wild game selections.
The food is often locally sourced; menu options include crab and lobster cakes, fresh mussels, hearty lobster chowder, Atlantic salmon, and Digby scallops, served with local and international wine selections.
For the quality and quantity, the food is reasonably priced: two large lobster tails with rice and vegetables are under $40. And don’t skip dessert, especially if the heavenly pumpkin white chocolate cheesecake is available.
As well as dinner, brunch and lunch service, the inn also serves a daily continental breakfast including cereal, muffins, pastries, yogurt, and coffee.
The biggest draw is the comfortable and luxrious rooms, some with fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs and patios.
Each is different but all include antique furniture such as massive four-poster beds, Victorian writing desks and oriental rugs.
The original exotic hardwood from the 1870s is still evident in places such as the front staircase, and several small nooks invite guests to linger. On the second floor, a cozy library is the perfect place to curl up with a book, and on the main floor, tea and cookies are served in a foyer with plush red drapes, matching Victorian furniture, and a roaring fireplace.
Of course, modern conveniences aren’t forgotten either: all rooms have TVs and there is complimentary wi-fi throughout the inn.
The Blomidon has several packages for romantic and culinary-themed getaways and also offers space for meetings, social events and weddings.
