Whitehaven Inn
By Rudy Ferraro

"It's a magical place. There are no theaters here, but this wonderful little village is its own theater," her eyes light up like those of a child at Disney World when Cindy Curran, the Innkeeper, talks about the Whitehaven Hotel she loves to manage. It's really a bed and breakfast, but back in the 1800's it was considered a hotel and met the lodging needs of the then bustling little seaport of Whitehaven—a tiny and picturesque community hiding quietly on the winding shore of Maryland's Wicomico River.

Whitehaven Inn

As if preparing you for the incredible experience ahead, the long and wavy country road to the Inn seems to come right out of a romance novel. Wheat fields and meadows so green you'd think someone turned up the contrast in your eyes, and more fresh air than you could possibly use in a lifetime all make the drive to the Inn an unexpected pleasure. Like a silver ribbon tossed onto the land the thin road winds about, showing off its grand views, until suddenly and with little warning it simply dips into the river and pops out on the other side taunting drivers to dare follow.

That itty bitty ferry

Though to the unaware visitor the sudden lack of dry road might seem somewhat confusing, but that confusion quickly turns to what can only be described as giddy excitement as the too cute little three-car (three small car) ferry happily putters across the river to fetch the Inn's guests. The ride takes only a few minutes across the river, but is well worth the complimentary fee—that's right, FREE. The tiny ferry has made its way back and forth across the Wicomico since the days when it carried horse and carriage customers rather than automobiles, and is said to be one of the longest continuously running ferries in the country.

The Inn sits on the edge of the water at the beginning of the riverfront village. The homes that make up this postcard-ready community all have the historic character that makes passions come alive. Front porch swings, huge shade trees and Victorian-style architecture together bring out a fairytale ambience not soon forgettable. A quiet stroll while holding hands around Whitehaven is truly movie material.

A bedroom with real old-fashion ambience

Checking in at the Whitehaven Hotel is like going back home for a visit with family and friends—it's not a procedure, but a wonderfully friendly experience. Don't expect the typical name, rank and serial number interrogation you'd get at most hotels. Since Cindy has everything ready for you she spends her time making you feel comfortable and welcomed rather than processed.

Once in your room you'll notice the care and attention that was put into keeping the history of the old place alive. Canopy and four-post beds, working fireplaces, creaking floors, beautiful antiques and the hypnotic sound of peace and quiet all add life and romance to the Inn. There is no roughing it here; you'll feel pampered from the moment you see the Inn until you drive away planning your return. As you begin to experience Whitehaven's uniqueness, time slows down and the daily grind that may have followed you melts away.

Doesn't it make your  mouth water?

Breakfast at the Inn isn't just a meal, but a beautiful experience you'll be talking about for months to come. The plated culinary creations Ms. Curran prepares for her guests are not only too pretty to eat, but taste as wonderful as they look. After a breakfast that most gourmet chefs couldn't live up to, there is plenty to do if you're the energetic type. Biking, kayaking or you could drive to the nearby town of Salisbury, about 20 minutes away, for some shopping in the historic down town district. Of course you could just do nothing and enjoy some of that wonderful stuff Cindy calls magic.

The Whitehaven's garden

Later, when dusk approaches, Cindy sets out a wine reception for her guests in the gathering room downstairs. Sip a nice glass of Merlot or Chardonnay while you gently sway on the porch swing, or let your toes dangle off the dock while you enjoy that "theater" Cindy talked about. Sharing the serenity of the soft-flowing water, the unspoiled marshes and the songs of nature effortlessly lets your minds wander until your thoughts become as serene as the scene around you.

The Red Roost serves up great meals

Whitehaven is also home for a crazy place called the Red Roost Restaurant. For more than 30 years this chicken-house-turned-restaurant has been serving the best BBQ ribs and fresh Maryland crabs around. The Red Roost is in no way a fine dining establishment—its rustic atmosphere is country and fun. The light fixtures are made from upside down apple baskets hanging from the wooden roof trusses, the napkins are rolls of paper towels on each table and the banjo duet playing anything from "Dixie" to "Give My Regards to Broadway" makes the dining experience an evening of entertainment as well. But, don't let the paper towels and banjos fool you because the surf-and-turf lobster and filet mignon is incredible. Add all of that to a huge tray of home made pies and desserts that will make your teeth ache and you'll wonder how this town could remain so small.

You don't lack for entertainment here either

The only place in the world you can visit the Whitehaven Hotel and dine at the Red Roost Restaurant is in a town too small to have a population sign--Whitehaven, Maryland. It's a picture-perfect little historic seaport where serenity and natural beauty will change you forever for no more cost than the average hotel. Let your souls be one at Whitehaven, a setting where tender kisses and holding hands just happen on their own.

For more information about Whitehave Inn:

http://whitehaven.tripod.com/

2685 Whitehaven Road
Whitehaven, MD 21856
Ph: 410-873-2000 (local)
Toll Fee: 877-809-8296
Cell: 410-603-2818
Email: dotinwhitehaven@aol.com