Set on 330 pastoral acres, this former estate of the Crocker banking family has been converted to a luxurious inn. The oak-paneled main château holds eight elegantly furnished rooms and suites, and a dining room for guests (although with advance reservations, it's also possible for nonguests to dine here). The property's "cottages" are equally opulent, each with its own luxurious identity (the Hermes House has four fireplaces and a 27-foot-high living-room ceiling). Fresh flowers, afternoon tea, and evening champagne are offered daily. This is a quiet property, best suited to couples traveling without children. Pros: Supremely exclusive. Cons: Difficult to get a reservation, far from the coast.
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