Clifton
1296 Clifton Inn Dr.,
Charlottesville, VA 22911,
tel. 804/971—1800 or 888/971—1800,
fax 804/971—7098
The grounds spread through 48 acres of woods. The 20-acre lake offers good fish-ing (the inn provides rods and tackle boxes) and lazy floats on inner tubes. Vines and slate stonework blend the swimming pool and heated spa tub into the bucolic setting. There’s a clay tennis court, as well as croquet, volleyball, horseshoes, and badminton. For pure loafing, there are wooden chairs scattered across the lawns and a small gazebo. The extensive gardens are carefully tended:
The estate grows its own flowers, lettuce, and herbs, many of which find their way into Craig’s epicurean creations.
With fireplaces in common areas, Clifton offers a magical combination of elegance and hominess. It is rapidly gaining national attention for superbly attentive (but not hovering) guest service. A smiling staff member is always nearby, ready to assist guests with any needs they may have. A corner of the big butcher-block island in the kitchen is for guests, who often sit and chat with Craig as he cooks. A jar of cookies is always there, and sodas are in the refrigerator. Underneath the manor house is a newly in-stalled wine cellar, complete with 220 varieties, and a formal tasting table. The tastingroom, equipped with state-of-the art audiovisual equipment, can be used for small-group meetings.
10 double rooms with baths, 4 suites. Restaurant, air-conditioning, lake, pool, spa tub, tennis court. $150—$315; full breakfast, afternoon tea. MasterCard, Visa. No smoking, no pets, 2-night minimum weekends.
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