Hummingbird Inn
30 Wood Lane P.O. Box 147
Goshen, Virginia 24439
800/397-3214
Rates: $90-$145
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A unique Victorian Carpenter Gothic villa (born in 1780 and completed in 1853) in a little railroad town just west of scenic Goshen Pass on the western edge of the Shenandoah Valley, in a small triangle defined by historic Lexington, Staunton, and Warm Springs/Hot Springs. Country elegance amid perennial gardens and an old livery stable which edge a wide trout stream. The informal, relaxed atmosphere says, "Take time to be."

First built in 1780 and expanded in 1853 to its current size, our unique Victorian Carpenter Gothic villa has been operated as an inn for many years, and has been host to celebrities such as Eleanor Roosevelt, and Efraim Zimbalist, Sr. Architectural features include wraparound verandahs on the first and second floors, original pine floors of varying widths, a charming rustic den, and a solarium. A wide trout stream defines one of the property lines, and our old barn was once the town livery.

A more than full breakfast is served on lovely antique Meissen china, and Early American Fostoria glassware. Breakfast specialties include fruit compote or fresh fruits in season, oven-baked honey-cinnamon french toast, omelets, breakfast meats, raisin-filled scones from a family recipe, home-made oatmeal bread, and rose geranium and lemon cake-breads. And every breakfast features Hummingbird Inn special blend morning coffee, made in small batches so that the last cup is always as fresh as the first.

An elegant dinner by candlelight is available to guests on Saturday. Be prepared for a memorable four course continental meal that will delight the palate and excite the imagination. (With British understatement, Diana calls it "just a home-cooked meal!") Forty-eight hours advance notice is required, as all food, including french bread, is prepared to order. Complimentary wine is served with dinner.