Romantic Retreat Close to Home: The Inn at Bowman’s Hill

By Beth D’Addono

When retired American Airlines pilot Gary Yudell wanted to take his wife Melanie on a romantic birthday getaway, he didn’t have to get on a plane. In fact, Yudell found the ideal setting just 10 miles from his Holland home.

It’s been five years since the Yudell’s first discovered The Inn at Bowman’s Hill, a Four Diamond upscale property in New Hope.  Lovingly renovated and maintained to the highest standards by innkeeper Mike Amery and his staff, The Inn provided the Yudell’s with the perfect combination of luxury, seclusion and convenience.

“We’re not really bed and breakfast types,” said Yudell. “We don’t like the bathroom up the hall kinds of places, or B&Bs that may be en suite, but are really just spaces that have been remanufactured. What we love is beautiful landscaping, quiet, secluded spots—but we also want to take advantage of nearby dining and attractions.”

The Inn strikes just the right balance, and has become a favorite escape route for the couple at least four times a year. “There’s something special about this place in every season,” said Yudell. “It’s truly an idyllic spot.”

Since it opened its door a decade ago, The Inn at Bowman Hill has offered a romantic hideaway to guests from the region and beyond. Outfitted with five oversized rooms, each with a king size featherbed, a gas fireplace, and two-person whirlpool tub, the overarching theme is elegance and comfort, evident in the attention to the smallest detail. From the 300-count Pima cotton linens to the Italian travertine baths and top shelf amenities, guests can relax in an atmosphere of warmth and comfort.  Rooms overlook the property’s five acres of rolling hillside, landscaped and enhanced with a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. A member of Select Registry, an exclusive cadre of small luxury B&Bs, the Inn’s kudos include a recommendation by Conde Nast and being named one of the Top 10 Romantic Inns in the Nation by American Historic Inns.

“What started for us as a special occasion retreat is now something we do on a regular basis,” said Yudell. “The Inn is a place of quiet amidst all the noise that pursues us all during every day life. Even though we could fly anywhere, there’s something about being so close to home, yet so far away, that really fits into our lifestyle.”

Guests of the Inn enjoy a multi-course gourmet breakfast in the glow of the blazing Colonial fireplace (or in bed) before wiling the day away at leisure.  A walk on the grounds is always an option, as is relaxing with a book surrounded by flowers and orchids in the heated, English-style conservatory. The Yudell’s also like the property’s proximity to local attractions and dining.

“It’s close to what you want to be close to,” he said. “Lambertville, New Hope, Flemington, Peddler’s Village—all just a short drive away.” Come evening, the Yudell’s may dine at one of their favorite restaurants—Tastebuds in New Hope tops the list, or simply opt for a casual evening at Bowman’s Tavern right up the road, which features a menu of American comfort food and live entertainment every night but Monday.

“Everybody might not do this, but when I’m at the Inn, I turn my cell phone off,” said Yudell.  “Ok, maybe I check in once a day or so. But when we’re there, it’s our time. We allow ourselves to recharge.”  And while most of the working world choose to retreat on weekends, the Yudell’s have the flexibility to get away during the week. Somehow, that makes the experience even better.  “It feels like a hooky day from school,” said the retired pilot. “It’s even more special.”

The Inn at Bowman’s Hill is located at 518 Lurgan Road in New Hope. The rates at The Inn at Bowman’s Hill range from $295-$535 per night. For more information or to make a reservation, call (215) 862-8090 or visit www.theinnatbowmanshill.com.