We travel a great deal and once in a very great while I stumble on a bed and breakfast gem so outstanding that I am almost at a loss for words in how to capture its value for both my readers and listeners. The Victoria Inn in Murphy’s, California is one such place.

Murphy’s is a charming, gold rush town in the California Gold Country. Well known for its proximity to world-class skiing, excellent fishing, world-famous wineries, and convenience to Yosemite National Park, Big Trees State Park, Mercer Caverns, and a half-dozen award-winning golf courses, Murphy’s, quite simply, is a gem that has it all for any age, type or generation of traveler.

California Gold Rush towns all have their very own distinctive flavors and ambiance but Murphy’s is in a class all its own. Murphy’s is very small and packs a lot of charm and class into its tiny historic town. Several affluent and high-end cuisine dining establishments grace the streets along with an amazing concentration of wineries and tasting rooms in and around the town. Because Murphy’s is off the beaten path, it has retained its charm and boutique quality that stands in a class all its own and attracts thousands of visitors each year from around the world.

While the town and outlying area offers plenty for traveling families to enjoy such as trout fishing in the Murphy’s Creek, boating, hiking, white water rafting, cavern exploration, gold pannings, museums and more, our most recent visit was a purely romantic getaway for just the heads of our clan.

Wine tasting, dining, golfing, and just soaking up some alone time were on our agenda on this particular trip and there is no better place to stay than Victoria Inn Bed and Breakfast.

We were fortunate to stay in the lavish and elegant Eucalyptus King Suite where we were spoiled with a beautiful spa tub for after-dinner soaking while enjoying our wine finds from the day. Our suite’s fireplace and sitting area only added to the relaxation and spacious atmosphere we relished. A separate room housing our own wet bar and microwave were an added convenience. And the beautiful raised four-poster bed and opulent antiques were the aesthetic focal point of our suite.

Luxurious linens and bedding as well as high-end toiletries rounded out the added extras we came to appreciate in our little romantic home away from home.

The outside gardens, fountains and blooming wisteria ensured a romantic feel. We enjoyed the sumptutous breakfast which we savored, al fresco, out on the deck in the morning sunshine. Excellent homemade pastries, fresh fruit, yogurts, cereals, muffins, and much more satisfied and fueled us for our day in Murphy’s spent browsing, boutiquing, and wine tasting.

Each and every person we encountered on staff at the inn was friendly, warm and offered us unparalleled hospitality and kindness. Fresh herb infused water and an assortment of gourmet coffees and teas was available throughout our stay.

The inn itself has 15 rooms and an extra six lavishly appointed vacation rentals are also available just blocks away on the main street. An ADA compliant room is also available. Should couples travel together or couples be venturing out with the family in tow, there is, quite literally, every type of accommodation available through innkeeper Michael Ninos who runs the inn with impeccable hospitality and attention to detail. With lofts, cottages, suites and rooms there is something for every type of vacationer.

For added convenience, Michael and his lovely wife also own V Bistro next door where local wines and delicious small plates and cocktails are served for those lucky enough to stop in long enough to see  and taste the delicious treats waiting to tantalize guests’ taste buds.

Perfect for skiers in the winter, rafters in the summer, wine lovers or hikers, this all season accommodation, The Victoria Inn, is perfect for anytime or anyone in search of perfection, luxury and unpretentious modern comfort married with history.

For more info: http://www.victoriainn-murphys.com/index.html

Author: Carmel L. Mooney is the editor of Roadtripsforcouples.com