Rock Hall Luxe : Colebrook, CT Mediterranean Revival B&B in the Litchfield Hills of CT.

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Meandering north up route 8 at sunset in early June through Connecticut’s lush green tree lined countryside on our way to Rock Hall Luxe Lodging, located in the scenic southern Berkshires of Litchfield County, my girlfriend and I began to unwind almost immediately. Turning into the driveway, we passed a tennis court, backed the car up and inspected it noticing it’s synthetic grass nature, an unusual and appealing sight. Parking in the circular driveway, surrounded by a striking array of willows, maples, oaks, and evergreens, we immediately experienced the peace and beauty of this historic 10,000 square foot Addison Mizner estate elegantly restored to its original 1912 charm. 

Walking through the huge articulated front doors, I found Michael, the co-owner, snoozing in one of the family rooms adjacent to a large fireplace in the main living area where the dark wood ceiling rose to 13 feet.  After deciding not to dine out late, Michael graciously prepared a tasty bread, cheese, and pepperoni spread along with two delectable Apple Martinis while we took in the Mediterranean Revival atmosphere of the only Mizner residence still standing north of the Mason-Dixon line.

Rock Hall Luxe
Cordial and polite, Michael showed us around this large rectangular stone and stucco house, adorned with an elaborate stone front entrance, before bed.  Colorful, picturesque stained glass windows lined the wooded stairwell leading to the second floor where we passed a billiards room on the way to our bedroom.  I was tempted to challenge Michael to a game but instead we moved on to the third floor where a game room with pinball, foosball, and Ping-Pong captivated my attention immediately, even more so than did the screening room with an old style popcorn machine and its various accouterments.

Our Room
Veronica and I took one side each playing pinball followed by twenty minutes of Ping-Pong enhanced by the feeling of being away and the lighter nature of the mansion’s location tucked away in the small town of Colebrook, Connecticut. Our room, facing a giant oak in the front, was spacious, furnished simply and classically with a fireplace and super-comfortable king bed.  It reminded me of a guest room I once stayed in at a large southern house in the charming town of Fairhope, Alabama.

Contenential Breakfast
The next morning we rose early, entering the stylish dining room to find an abundant and sumptuous array of fresh fruits, cheeses, breads, and smoked salmon which Michael had cured himself.  Ten minutes later, he brought out a delectable mushroom frittata as well. Then Stella, his wife and co-owner, gave us a tour of the 23 acre property presenting the orchards, tennis court, gardens, pool house, and beautiful pool area.  The grounds, with a diverse array of specimen trees, were being readied with a large tent for a wedding reception the following day.  One could easily imagine the combination of privacy, beauty, charm, and uniqueness in renting the property for two nights to celebrate a wedding or big life event. 

In-Room Massage
Following the tour, I received a massage in my room while Veronica went for a hike several miles away in historic Norfolk, Connecticut not far from Infinity Music Hall.  The massage therapist, an unassuming woman from Colebrook, spoke highly of Stella and Michael highlighting their generous nature and accomplishments in restoring this historic house. 

Things To See Along The Way
On an alternate route back, we stopped at a local farmers market in Norfolk, Connecticut where we bought a delicious apricot orange jam and took in the friendly small town atmosphere of this quaint town adjacent to Colebrook.  Soon after, we followed route 7 to the edge Lime Rock, famous for its raceway, and then to Kent, a town known for its prestigious private school and bucolic setting. From Kent, we followed route 7 home noticing how much heavier the energy felt as we headed south into Fairfield County.  

If You Go
With five stylish guest rooms, friendly service, great amenities, a charming location, and prices ranging from $350 to $550 a night depending, Rock Hall is a terrific getaway and great option for a festive event. 

Veronica and I found ourselves back in the intensity by early afternoon only a few hours after an evening and morning of peace and tranquility thanks to Michael and Stella.