City: Savannah, GA

Category: Accommodations

Telephone: (912) 236-1484, (800) 822-4553

Address: 14 East Oglethorpe Ave.

Description: The Ballastone is a magnificently restored, four-story 1838 mansion just off Bull Street, one of the historic area’s main thoroughfares. Arriving guests will notice the beautiful Queen Anne staircase in the entryway and the warm, lavishly decorated parlor off to the right. Ceiling fans, rice poster and canopy beds, marble-topped tables, and fireplaces are some of the things you might find in one of the 16 individually decorated rooms. The Victoria Room has a massive king-size bed and whirlpool tub, while the Gazebo Room has two queen-size beds. Besides the wonderful surroundings, guests enjoy afternoon Victorian tea along with evening hors d’oeuvres. There is a terry-cloth robe waiting in the bathroom and nightly turndown service with chocolates and cordials. In the mornings, you can choose to have continental breakfast in your room or a full gourmet breakfast served in either of the parlors or outside in the courtyard. Children 16 years of age and older are welcome at the Ballastone. The inn has been recommended by Select Registry, Brides, Glamour, Gourmet, and Condé Nast Traveler. This is one of Savannah’s inns that more closely resembles a small European hotel. Jennifer Salandi is the innkeeper-owner.