Castle Hill Inn, set in a charming 19^th century coastal mansion in Newport, RI, announces an exciting lineup of programming and events for the spring and summer months.

This quintessential New England destination takes guests through a journey of innovative and unique experiences throughout the spring and summer seasons, with the opportunity to partake in signature Castle Hill events including a hands-on cooking experience with Executive Chef Lou Rossi, a full wellness immersion at The Retreat by Farmaesthetics, weekly beach bonfires and stargazing, award-winning clambakes, and a variety of other festive activities.

Off-property excursions include Castle Hill Inn’s private yacht experience on a custom-designed Hinckley, Newport by Air hot air balloon rides and seasonal visits to local vineyards and New England farms.

Continuing for summer 2016, Castle Hill Inn’s water taxi, M/V Mistress, will offer guests the chance to skip town traffic by expediently taking passengers from Castle Hill Inn Marina directly to Newport Harbor. Service is offered daily from June 17 to September 5, and weekends in May, early June and September.

Castle Hill Inn’s Social Datebook spring & summer event highlights include the following experiences: 

• Prelude to Spring Cooking Class

The first of two cooking weekends this year, this session will focus on getting your cooking skills ready for the local bounty that lies just ahead. The weekend will feature classes by Chef Rossi, Pastry Chef Christina Mercado, as well as wine education from Beverage Director Anthony Boi. April 15-17

• World Match Racing Tour

The World Match Racing Tour brings an exciting and aggressive style of sailing to Newport this summer. This professional sailing event will be set-up within yards of Castle Hill’s iconic shoreline for optimal spectator viewing.  May 30-June 4

• Newport Bermuda Race

Few tests of seamanship are as iconic as the 635-mile Newport Bermuda Race. Celebrating its 50^th year, the 2016 race also marks the 90th anniversary of organizers, Cruising Club of America and Royal Bermuda Yacht Club’s partnership. On June 17th, watch the start of the Newport Bermuda Race from the Lawn at Castle Hill Inn. It is a spectacular sight with more than 150 boats in ten classes lining up at the Castle Hill Lighthouse. June 17

• Beach Bonfires, Stargazing & S’mores 

On Sunday evenings, Castle Hill Inn’s private beach is the place to go for s’mores, cocktails, storytelling and stargazing. A local astronomer will lead guests through a fireside astronomical experience. Sunday evenings In July, August & September

• 40 Acres of Yoga

Yoga enthusiasts can treat their mind and body to an hour of tranquility on the Inn’s 40-acre waterfront property. Led by esteemed experts from Newport Power Yoga, guests center and quiet their spirit while outside, surrounded by Castle Hill Inn’s stunning vistas. Saturday mornings in July & August

Fourth of July Fireworks
The Lawn at The Castle Hill Inn offers an unobstructed view of Newport’s annual fireworks show with specially reserved vantage points from which guests can view the display. Enjoy gourmet drinks and bites to celebrate America’s birthday. July 4

• Clambakes
  A traditional New England experience, Castle Hill Inn’s clambake pit is nestled on the far edge of the Inn’s picturesque bluffs and is the weekly centerpiece to a dining experience rich with natural flavors and homegrown fun. Guests can observe the cooking process led by Castle Hill Inn’s Executive Chef Rossi, sip artisan cocktails in Adirondack chairs, or play bocce and croquet against the backdrop of Newport Harbor until it’s time to gather for a uniquely local and expertly prepared feast. July 12 & July 26

• Farm Fresh Local Food Fest 

Set against the incomparable backdrop of Narragansett Bay, this annual evening event features Rhode Island’s most celebrated culinary figures, paired with local farmers, fishermen and food artisans. August 4

• Castle Hill BBQ

The culinary team at Castle Hill Inn puts a New England spin on this classic culinary experience while guests enjoy a cliffside seat to indulge in robust smoky BBQ flavors. August 16

• Vineyard Tours

One of the wine world’s best-kept secrets, Aquidneck Island is a notably desirable area for vineyard production. Ample farmland and a moderate micro-climate allow for a long growing season that produces complex flavors in the area’s wines. Guests who travel to Castle Hill Inn in the summer and spring seasons can enjoy expertly led tours of local wineries, Newport Vineyards and Greenvale Vineyards.

• Ocean Escapes

Guests are invited to experience all the luxuries of Castle Hill out on the water with an excursion on Castle Hill Inn’s private yacht, custom-designed by Hinckley. A seasoned captain from Barton & Gray Mariner’s Club helps guests explore local points of interest, with provisions provided by Castle Hill Inn’s award-winning culinary team.

Castle Hill Inn’s 2016 Social Datebook with full details can be found online. For more information about Castle Hill Inn, or to book a reservation, please call 888.466.1355 or visit www.castlehillinn.com.