The Color Purple

I just returned from a charming stay at The Lavender Inn, a bed and breakfast in the heart of Ojai, CA. Built in 1874, this B&B was the first schoolhouse in Ojai. Not to worry though, The Lavender Inn has been newly renovated and is practically flawless.

There are seven rooms, each with a different fairytale feel. My husband and I stayed in the "Romantic Suite." We got to see several other rooms, as the innkeeper, Erica, keeps the doors ajar when they are unoccupied. The airiness of this simple gesture made us feel as though we were guests in someone's home. We also felt as though we were in an enchanted treehouse, surrounded by fountains, trees, flowers and even butterflies!

The common areas include a large living room, dining room and game area. Also on hand is DSL on a laptop in case one wants to check email. From 5pm-6pm wine and delectable cheeses were served. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate are always available. Breakfast from 9am-10am consisted of pumpkin pancakes, sausage, fruit, cereal and fresh squeezed orange juice.

No detail was spared in decor or hospitality. The "house" was decked out in Fall and Halloween decor. Lindt chocolates and candy corns filled bowls laced throughout. Erica was ever so helpful with her smiling eyes and friendly advice on where to eat, shop or watch the sunset.

We ate a lovely dinner at Suzanne's, where the theme of romance was carried on amidst twinkling white lights strewn throughout the trees and dinner served next to a crackling fire.

We topped off our stay with a stop at "Meditation Point" at the edge of town. Views of Ojai as far as the eye can see!

www.lavenderinn.com

http://www.suzannescuisine.com/mainIndex.html