Olde Rhinebeck Inn

Whistlewood farm B&B

by septembersgirl about B&B

I recently had an extended stay at Whistlewood Farm B&B, just outside of Rhinebeck, NY, a charming village in the Hudson Valley. Frankly, Whistlewood has spoiled me for my own home.

At Whistlewood the level of accommodation is superior, a five star lodging – an excellent mattress, high-count ironed 100% cotton sheets, ample fluffy towels, endless hot water for bathing in the whirlpool tubs and privacy. Depending on the room, there are fireplaces, whirlpools, double showers, and private patios.

Once you venture into the common areas of Whistlewood, the eye and hand of owner Maggie Myer is evident. The lounges are comfortable, filled with an antiques collectors’ treasure trove – the iron and nickel cook stove is jaw dropping. The feel is more upscale lodge than overwrought Victorian.

Guests tend to congregate in the solarium off the kitchen where breakfast is served. Maggie calls it a country breakfast, but that is too modest a description. The cooked foods are made to order – eggs, pancakes, waffles (the best). Not to be missed is the fresh made, fresh fruit salad. I crave it. If you’re lucky, Maggie’s friend Jay, a professional musician, will be strumming and singing for his breakfast. There is a groaning board known as the “Dessert Table” that is dressed for breakfast with yogurt, cottage cheese, bread, etc.. It also holds muffins, cakes, pies, cookies and assorted snack available around the clock.

The grounds of Whistlewood are immaculate and inviting. The gardens are lovely, with birds, bunnies, wild turkeys and deer making guest appearances. Surrounding the main house and cottage are horse pastures and a stable, housing Maggie’s horses.
Not to be forgotten are the two Queens of the property – Cherokee and Lulu, Maggie’s mother-daughter black Labs. They are up for walks on Whistlewood’s nature trails, a game of fetch, snacks, and occasionally serve as lawn ornaments…

Ten minutes off the Taconic Parkway, just beyond the upper fringes of metropolitan New York, Maggie and Whistlewood earn their kudos. Friendly, Convenient, Comfortable, Charming, Discrete