What a memorable year it’s been, filled with the warmth of hospitality and unforgettable stays at charming bed and breakfasts and elegant boutique hotels! In 2025, we wandered through some of the most inviting B&Bs in the eastern United States—from the coast of New England to the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond—each one brimming with rich history, genuine welcome, and meals that make you linger a little longer at the breakfast table. Here’s a quick look back at our domestic adventures.
Bed and Breakfasts: Our B&B Stays Across the Eastern U.S.
The Historic NuWray Hotel in Burnsville, NC
Nestled in downtown Burnsville, this 1833 gem—the oldest continuously operating hotel in North Carolina—blends restored historic charm with modern amenities across 22 rooms and a pet-friendly Carriage House. We loved the on-site Carriage House Sundries (my favorite restaurant in Burnsville). Now, the NuWray has its own restaurants, the NuWray Restaurant, serving a breakfast buffet and dinner. This hotel is gives back to its community and even served as a community hub post-Hurricane Helene. Read the full post here.
East Main Guest House in Rock Hill, SC
This 1915 historic home in the East Town Historic District features three cozy queen rooms with fireplaces and a jetted tub, plus a serene garden and porch. Highlights included farm-to-table breakfasts and using it as a base to explore local gardens, boutiques, and eateries like Old Town Kitchen and Cocktails. Innkeepers Heidi and Scott made it feel like home. I grew up near Charlotte, N.C., and never realized how much York County has to offer. Check out the details here.
Ellijay River House in Ellijay, GA
This 1915 Craftsman-style B&B along the Cartecay River is just steps from downtown, with elegantly renovated rooms like the Retreat featuring a clawfoot tub. We savored gourmet breakfasts such as eggs benedict and evening desserts like chocolate mousse, plus riverside relaxation and nearby vineyard picnics at Chateau Meichtry. This is a mountain getaway you do not want to miss! Innkeepers Tram and Seth provided top-notch hospitality. Full story here.
Rhett House Inn in Beaufort, SC
For a special mother-daughter birthday trip, we stayed at this antebellum-style inn from 1820, with verandas, majestic oaks, and options like the Main House, Newcastle House, or historic Cottages. Key moments included al fresco Southern breakfasts with blueberry pancakes, veranda thunderstorms, and nightly desserts like key lime pie. We explored downtown shops and dined at spots like Lost Local. This is our most-visited bed and breakfast. Read more here.
3 Waves Bed and Breakfast in Plymouth, MA
This 19th-century colonial in historic Plymouth offers wellness-focused rooms like the Elevation Suite with ocean views, plus amenities such as an infrared sauna, red-light therapy, and a saltwater hot tub. We enjoyed family-style healthy breakfasts, fostering guest connections, and its proximity to Plymouth Rock and harbor dining. This rejuvinating escape made for the perfect girls’ trip. Details here.
International Destinations: Our French Boutique Hotel Adventures
We also ventured abroad to France, staying at stunning boutique hotels that captured the essence of luxury and local culture. These were highlights of our European travels.
South of France: Domaine de Fontenille in Lauris, Provence
This 18th-century estate in the Luberon Valley boasts vineyards, olive groves, and airy rooms. We relished terrace breakfasts with exceptional croissants, poolside lounging with snacks, and garden-fresh dinners at Amélie’s Kitchen, plus a vineyard tour and wine tastings. A perfect base for village-hopping in Bonnieux, Gordes, and more. Full itinerary here.
Bordeaux: Château Léognan
We loved our stay at this 5-star boutique hotel (more like castle) on 173 acres in Pessac-Léognan, with historic grounds, forests, and vineyards. Welcomed with local wine and canelés, we enjoyed buffet breakfasts with pastries and cheeses, outdoor dining at Le Manège, and a wine tour tasting of exceptional reds. The chapel and horse pastures added charm—ideal for wine enthusiasts. This hotel served our home base for exploring the Bordeaux region of France. My favorite fact? This château originally operated as one of Bordeaux’s bed and breakfasts. Check out the guide here.
Paris: Hotel Wallace and Park Hyatt
At Hotel Wallace in the 15th Arrondissement, our balcony room offered Eiffel Tower views, perfect for watching the sparkle at night. Later, at the central Park Hyatt in the 1st, we were greeted with wine and macarons in the heart of Parisian local attractions. Both provided cozy, convenient bases for Parisian exploration. Full travel guide here.
French Riviera: Château le Cagnard in Cagnes-sur-Mer
Housed in a 13th-century fortress in medieval Haut-de-Cagnes, this boutique features suites with sea and mountain-view terraces. Breakfast on the panoramic balcony included baguettes, cheeses, and an à la carte menu. A magical, historic spot for Côte d’Azur adventures. Read the guide here.
What about you? We’d love to hear your suggestions for where we should stay next in 2026—drop a comment below with your favorite bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels!
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