Several years ago, I stayed at my first bed and breakfast in a tiny fishing village in Newfoundland. It was a bad experience that had me packing up and in my car in the middle of the night, swearing off bed and breakfasts forever. So when I came across The Camille Rose Inn Bed and Breakfast while planning a trip to Gainesville, I was hesitant. However, after reading all the amazing reviews, I decided to give it a try, and I couldn’t be happier that I did!
My experience at the Camille Rose Inn Bed and Breakfast was special from the moment I drove into the Historic Bed and Breakfast District. The area boasts beautiful old homes, streets lined with tall trees draped in Spanish moss, and black antique streetlights. The Inn itself, a sea-green Victorian mansion, is surrounded by a white picket fence and bright pink azalea bushes. Halfway up the brick path to the house, I was greeted by a friendly resident cat. Steps lead up to a charming wrap-around porch that exudes an old Florida feeling with white balustrades, a haint blue ceiling, and plenty of seating for guests to enjoy the beautiful property. Near the door was a welcome sign with each guest’s name next to their room—it was a lovely touch.
Inside, a warm and cheerful innkeeper showed me around the main floor of the grand house before directing me to my room. The inviting parlor featured comfortable seating, wine, a decanter of brandy, and Frank Sinatra playing softly in the background. The dining room offered a refrigerator stocked with soda and water, along with a large cabinet filled with complimentary sweet and savory treats for guests. In the morning, the dining room table was covered with an impressive assortment of breakfast goodies.
My room was on the second floor, and it did not disappoint. It was spacious and clean, with a private bathroom and plenty of storage space. The four-poster bed faced a nicely sized television and also had a view of the azalea bushes and white picket fence below. Just a few steps from the door to my room was a second-story porch, complete with rocking chairs to relax on while enjoying the view.
My plan for the night had been to check in, explore Gainesville, and leave early in the morning for Ichetucknee Springs. However, the Inn was so comfortable and relaxing that I changed my plans. I picked up a pizza from Satchel’s Pizza to enjoy on the porch at the Inn. Normally, I’m out of my room when the sun is coming up, but the room and view were so peaceful in the morning that I chose to stay a couple of hours and relax.
The Camille Rose Inn B & B is in a perfect location for visitors who need a home base for their adventures. There are several state parks, springs, and numerous hiking trails a short drive away. The famous Ginnie Springs State Park offers diving, swimming, camping, tubing, and snorkeling and is only 45 minutes away. The Inn is close to restaurants and shopping, giving guests many ways to unwind after a long day of adventures.
If you couldn’t tell by now, I loved my stay and can say that The Camille Rose Inn changed my opinion of bed and breakfasts, and now I can’t wait to check out more! I hope you have the same experience I did!
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