A Country Hideaway

Less than two hours from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this Maryland county offers cozy inns, small towns, and off-season rates-all perfect for a winter getaway.

There are times when I yearn for peaceful moments. I long to sit for hours and read a book. I love to walk along a quiet country lane and listen to Mother Nature whisper her secrets. I pine for wide-open spaces where I can count the stars.

During these times I escape the city. One of my favorite rural spots is Kent County, Maryland, a stretch of countryside that hugs the Chesapeake Bay on the state's Eastern Shore. Kent sits far from the crowds, but not too far. Several dozen bed-and-breakfasts and small inns populate the area. Winter is the ideal season to visit. The prices are lower, yet the allure remains the same. Here are three of my favorites.

The Beauty of Brampton

The wood-burning fireplace in my room sealed the deal. When I talked to Brampton Inn's owner Michael Hanscom, he listed the amenities-queen-size bed, private bath, breakfast, tea in the afternoon, and 35 acres on which to roam. But when he mentioned the fireplace, I pulled out my credit card and read him the number.

The 1860 redbrick plantation house was everything he had promised-and more. Each of the 10 guestrooms are appointed with period furnishings and fine linens.

Room With a View

At the end of a long lane, about 10 minutes from Chestertown, sits a lovely brick home, Great Oak Manor. There's a sweeping spiral staircase, an elegant dining room, and a library, plus 11 beautifully decorated guestrooms. Most have a water view-which brings me to my favorite thing about this inn. The backyard stretches to the edge of the Chesapeake. There you'll find Adirondack chairs and a gazebo. It makes for an enchanting scene.

Relax at Huntingfield Manor

The second I turned in to the drive, I felt as if I had come home. A sweeping green lawn reclaimed from the surrounding fields welcomes guests to this bed-and-breakfast. Several whitesided additions flank the house's redbrick center section, giving it the feel of a traditional family residence.

This historic property is located right outside of Rock Hall, just a stone's throw from the bay. It's perfect for canoers and kayakers or for those truly looking to get away from everything. The six rooms are attractive but not fancy. There are no televisions or telephones to disturb the peace, but there are 70 acres and a dock to explore. There's even a cottage for those traveling with their pets.

CASSANDRA M. VANHOOSER

Brampton Inn: (410) 778-1860, toll free 1-866-305-1860, orwww.bramptoninn.com. Rates: $135-$225. Great Oak Manor: (410) 778-5943, 1-800-504-3098, or www.greatoak.com. Rates: $140-$225. Huntingfleld Manor: (410) 639-7779, 1-800-720-8788, or www.huntingfield.com. Rates: $110-$175.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Feb 2004
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