Quiet Time is the Right Time to Get Away
With miles of spectacular waterfront and small towns defined by charming tree-lined brick sidewalks, exclusive Talbot County is the ideal backdrop for a relaxing romantic getaway on the Chesapeake Bay. Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, less than a 90-minute drive from Washington, D.C. and three hours from Philadelphia, arriving here is a breeze.
It’s always a good time to visit, but there’s something especially beautiful during the quiet, colder season when couples can stroll uncrowded streets in postcard pretty villages, hike and bike along miles of nature trails, as well as savor the unspoiled beauty of the waterfront.
From low-key inns to luxurious waterfront resorts to historic house rentals there’s a place to stay for every mood. Here are some of the area’s most romantic offerings.
EASTON
The Tidewater Inn and Tidewater House
The Tidewater Inn, the grand dame of historic downtown Easton, has made it easier than ever to enjoy a romantic getaway with their premier suites and the Terrasse Spa, a luxury retreat that features unique treatments. For even more privacy, hole up across the street in one of the five spacious suites at the circa 1874 Tidewater House.
Hummingbird Inn
There are six individually designed rooms at this bed and breakfast housed within a Victorian house in the heart of Easton. One of the most romantic is the Easton Room, which features a claw foot tub and a working fireplace, along with a bay window. This nearly one-acre property, shaded by a magnificent magnolia, is a wonderland of sorts with a trickling fountain and hidden benches. Come evenings, the wide porch transforms to make room for a romantic happy hour under the stars with music and wine— there’s even a porch swing!
OXFORD
Robert Morris Inn
Set along the waterfront in the town of Oxford, Robert Morris Inn makes for a picturesque stay. The property, built in 1710, is America’s oldest full service inn. Rooms exude colonial charm with details like heart pine floors and original mantels. The inn’s atmospheric tavern with its wooden beams, brick walls, and large fireplace honors Maryland’s culinary traditions through its menu, sourcing local ingredients for its dishes.
ST. MICHAELS
The Inn at Perry Cabin
One of America’s most luxurious properties, the Inn at Perry Cabin exudes casual refinement. Choose a suite with a terrace and fireplace for your very own 900-square-foot waterfront pied-a-terre. Couples who want to hang out with their four-legged besties can select a garden suite, located in the main circa 1812 inn, with a furnished patio and separate entrance. STARs, the resort’s acclaimed restaurant, takes locally-sourced food to a new level, tapping ingredients from area watermen and farmers, as well as its very own gardens and orchards. Newly installed dining greenhouses stationed along the waterfront ensure private and very romantic dinners for two.
The Parsonage Inn and the George Brooks House
The Parsonage Inn, a 19th century brick home with a distinctive pointy slate roof, is a St. Michaels’ icon. Several of the eight rooms have private decks and fireplaces, while the Dodson King Suite has its own private entrance. Under the same ownership, the George Brooks House is nestled on eight acres at the quiet end of town. Most guestrooms feature romantic four-poster beds. Some have Jacuzzis and fireplaces.
Old Brick Inn
This inn’s 20 rooms are spread over three buildings, all in the heart of historic St. Michaels. One of the early 19th century buildings once hosted General Robert E. Lee. Details like jetted tubs, double showers, and fireplaces make this adults-only inn extra romantic. Couples can hole up for days in the Chesapeake Suite, an 800-square-foot guestroom with a fireplace, a Jacuzzi built for two, a spacious sitting room and a fridge.
Aida’s Victoriana Inn
This 1865-era Victorian mansion with slate mansard roof has Adirondack chairs staggered along the lawn overlooking the harbor and Navy Point (home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum). Period details have been retained throughout the inn, like elaborate wainscoting, arched cornices, and glass transoms. Some of the seven rooms have wood burning fireplaces and four-poster beds. Warm breakfast is served daily.
St. Michaels Harbour Inn, Marina & Spa
Located on the marina in St. Michaels, this resort offers plenty of romantic perks in its 52 rooms, like spa tubs and private waterfront decks. You can arrange for the ultimate harbor hideaway by booking the Commodore’s Quarters, a loft-like space that has private access and a two-person shower. Downstairs, Harrison’s Harbour Lights serves up Chesapeake Bay treats like cream of crab soup, rockfish bites freckled with Old Bay, and traditional oyster stew served beside stone fireplaces. Come with a boat? No worries. There are 50 slips at the marina waiting for you.
The Wildset
Poised for easy access to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and trendy Talbot Street restaurants and shopping, this hotel oozes minimalist sophistication. Their 34 rooms are spread across three historic homes that have been renovated and updated for a modern Eastern Shore ambience. Get cozy in their fashionable restaurant, Ruse, named in honor of the town that fooled the British. The menu features vegetable and seafood-centric dishes, along with oysters.
TILGHMAN ISLAND
Tilghman Island Inn
The new owners of the 20-room Tilghman Island Inn are a dynamic husband/wife duo. He’s a chef known to put creative spins on classic dishes, such as a grilled Caesar salad with oyster “croutons.” The restaurant overlooks a waterway still plied by local fisherman. She’s a landscape architect that has created a green oasis with native plantings. Rooms are simple, chic, and modern, and should you arrive by boat, there’s a slip waiting.
Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island
Almost all of the 54 rooms at this historic property (which started life in 1898 as a boarding house) have private outdoor porches, most with a water view. Nine acres of waterfront ensures plenty of space to spread out, sip a drink by the fire pit, pump your legs on the tree swing, and stroll along the dock. Sample the fruits of the Chesapeake Bay like blue crab hush puppies and local oyster po’ boy sandwiches prepared by an award-winning chef at Tickler’s Restaurant, which has indoor and outdoor waterfront dining.
AROUND THE COUNTY
Vacation Rentals
For the most private getaway of all, you can book a vacation rental for a weekend, a week, a month — or more. No matter how long you choose to stay, you can rest assured life on the shore will renew your spirit. From waterfront estates to cozy cabins to historic homes in town, Tidewater Vacations, Eastern Shore Vacation Rentals, and A Historic St. Michaels Vacation have you covered.
For a complete list of Talbot County’s lodging options, click here.
