The votes are in, and our readers declared their favorite local inns and bed-and-breakfasts in Chatham County. Take the quiz, then book your stay for a change of pace and scenery.
By Anna-Rhesa Versola | Photography by John Michael Simpson
1 Which item is on your itinerary?
A Meeting a mystery writer – 4
B Hugging a goat – 2
C Boating on Jordan Lake – 3
D Sampling craft beers – 1
2 Which of the following hobbies interests you most?
A Gardening – 4
B Folk art – 1
C Reading – 3
D Pottery – 2
3 Describe your personal style.
A Casual – 3
B Eclectic – 1
C Refined – 4
D Outdoorsy – 2
4 Are the kids coming with?
A Yes – 1
B No – 2
5 Which dish appeals to you most?
A Scrambled eggs and chevre – 2
B Lemon ricotta pancakes – 1
C Spaghetti and meatballs – 3
D Steak and veggies – 4
6 What is your favorite farm animal?
A Horse – 3
B Cow – 4
C Goat – 2
D Chicken – 1
Add up your total and read on for your results!
0-7: The Small Cafe B&B
The Small Cafe B&B on East Street in Pittsboro has an eclectic style that showcases folk art against a backdrop of corrugated metal and shady pines. Beyond the purple-painted picket fence lies a garden full of sculptures and repurposed decorations. The three detached units are kid- and pet-friendly, including one that fits a family of five. The farm-to-table breakfast in the on-site cafe features lemon ricotta pancakes and garlic-smashed potatoes. The bed-and-breakfast is at the heart of everything downtown Pittsboro has to offer, about two blocks from the historic courthouse, museum, restaurants and retail shops.
8-12: The Inn at Celebrity Dairy
A two-story atrium connects an 1800s log cabin and a 20th century Greek revival farmhouse at this Siler City inn. In the yard, kids can swing from the massive branches of centuries-old oak trees. Visitors can check out the original log hay barn and granary, an 1880s smokehouse and tobacco barns built in the 1940s. Award-winning goat cheese is made at the modern dairy production facility on site, a special highlight for visitors. Drive about 30 minutes west and tour Seagrove, North Carolina, where the nation’s largest collection of potters access abundant clay for ceramic arts.
13-16: Lucky Bar Farm
Treat yourself to a quiet weekend in Moncure hosted by innkeepers Steve Adams and Nancy Adams. The 10-acre farm includes the main house with three guest rooms, a fitness center, game room and an outdoor pool. If you enjoy being on the water, Jordan Lake is only minutes away. Or, you can try Deep River Sporting Clays, book a tour at Carolina Tiger Rescue or drive down to Pinehurst or Southern Pines for a full day of golfing and boutique shopping.
17-22: The Fearrington House Inn
Just a few miles south of Chapel Hill lies a village reminiscent of the picturesque hamlets and country inns that dot the English landscape. Belted Galloway cows graze behind the bright white fences that mark Fearrington Village in Pittsboro. About 2,000 residents live in the neighborhoods surrounding The Fearrington House Inn, which has 32 individually designed guest rooms, a bar and formal dining room. The kitchen and its award-winning chefs serve guests of the inn as well as those who attend on-site events like weddings, celebrations, book signings, wine tastings and art shows. The best part? You won’t need a car to explore the manicured gardens, spa, independent bookstore, boutiques and other restaurants that are just steps away from the inn.
