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Travel Report
The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens New Unique, Boutique St. Augustine Stay ©Susan Campbell
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The Collector Inn
pened March 1st, 2017, the recent addition of this gorgeous accommodating oasis right in the heart of the historic district of St. Augustine, Florida is genius. This city really needed a bespoke luxury stay steps away from all the attractions. And to say it is a storied stay would be an understatement! I was fortunate enough to attend the preopening gala recently, and the second I stepped through the ancient archway to secret gardens, resplendent ponds, an outdoor fire pit and a surprising courtyard amphitheater, I could tell this was going to be one very special spot. It is a collection of 30 rooms housed in stately old homes beautifully refreshed without imposing upon their historical integrity. The unique accommodations range from expansive suites with separate living rooms, sofa sleepers, kitchenettes and breezy verandas to romantic studio style escapes, each individually appointed with museum quality décor. Modern amenities such as a heated swimming pool and high-tech conveniences bring the complex into the 21st century, but the echoes of its interesting past still resonate throughout. (Look for the historical
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markers!) “The Collector” is named after its most recent resident Kenneth Worcester Dow (since deceased), who was a famous collector of art, antiques and rare items, and had bought all nine buildings to house them. The oldest structure dates back to 1790, and was once the residence of Napoleon’s nephew Prince Achille Murat! Onsite history tours will enlighten you on all the interesting characters who have stopped by like Greta Garbo and Mark Twain, and the amphitheater could be ideal for musical and cultural programming, while evening receptions in the magical gardens can also bring guests together for some storytelling. Guests will also enjoy socializing at The Well Bar where they can enjoy handcrafted cocktails using local spirits created by the property’s talented barkeeps. And gourmet coffee blended especially for the inn is also part of the complimentary European style breakfast. The Collector Inn is indeed an extraordinary new luxury stay that is a most welcome addition that fits seamlessly into the enduring charm of the nation’s oldest city. Visit: thecollectorinn.com SUSAN CAMPBELL @suectravel