Located smack in the middle of old St. Augustine’s restored historic district is the romantic get away you’ve always wanted. Enter through the quaint courtyard filled with southern charm, lush greenery, and the sweet smell of jasmine in bloom and you will come to the doorstep of this picturesque Spanish Colonial building. Welcome to the St. Francis Inn. Built in 1791, St. Augustine’s oldest inn has amenities, charm, and perhaps a little something extra for those adventurous enough to stay at this purportedly haunted bed and breakfast.
Staffed with some of the friendliest and gracious people you will ever meet, the St. Francis Inn is a delightful hideaway for anyone. Each of the 16 rooms and the detached cottage (great for a couples retreat) are uniquely decorated with antique (or quality reproduction) furnishings with several rooms featuring Jacuzzis, fireplaces, and kitchenettes. As you get to your quarters, you will notice both fresh flowers and a bit of sherry to make a toast with your loved one to the beginning of a wonderful vacation. Ideally located for sightseeing, the St. Francis Inn is right next door to the González-Alvarez House, also known as “The Oldest House”. Occupied since the 1600s your stay will provide you with discounted admission. Or, if you are so inclined, free admission to the Saint Augustine Lighthouse. The inn is also within walking distance of the St. George Street shopping district and Old St. Augustine Village. The St. Francis Inn even has a massage therapist on staff in case you get achy from touring the cobblestone streets of the oldest city in America.
Prepare to be greeted with delicious aromas in the morning as the staff set out a fantastic gourmet breakfast. The menu changes daily, so each day will bring a surprising delight. Then you can relax on your private balcony or take up on one of the bikes offered for free to tour the city and get in a little exercise at the same time. Upon your return, St. Francis Inn gives you a lovely evening social hour with complementary drinks and even some light snacks to nosh on. But save some room, because later their freshly made and irresistible dessert selection will be available and you will not want to miss out on these sweet treats. All of this, the unbeatable full breakfasts, afternoon tea, social hour, desserts, pool, bikes, beach house, and more are just part of the package at St. Francis.
Speaking of extras, as the oldest city in America, St. Augustine is said to be one of the most haunted places in the world. This quaint little B & B makes sure you get the full experience as it is supposed to be haunted by the ghost of a former slave woman named Lily whose secret lover killed himself on the premises when he was forbidden to see her again. St. Francis even offers a special “Paranormal Paranoia Package” with lots of spooky extras like the “Ghostly Encounter Walking Tour” and a “Ghosts and Gravestones Evening Trolley Ride”. Regardless if you’re looking to relax in old world charm or get your heart pumping with bike rides and scary stories the St. Francis Inn Bed and Breakfast is a first rate one of a kind stay you’ll want to visit again and again. Be sure to check out the Castillo de San Marcos if you’re paying St Augustine a visit.
To learn more about the St. Francis Inn click here to visit their website.
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