How do DINE gardens grow – Part 2

Last week we took you on an armchair tour of four of the Distinctive Inns of New England’s gardens.  This week, we’re heading to Vermont, Rhode Island and Massachusetts! While reading and photos help to give you an idea of the beauty of our gardens, seeing them in person is really the way to go.  Have you planned your June getaway to any of the 11 Distinctive Inns of New England?  Now is the time to come while days are warm, nights are cool (perfect for snuggling) and gardens are just beginning to bloom.  We hope your next New England romantic getaway will be to one of the Distinctive Inns of New England.

Let’s start this week’s garden tour in Newport, RI where the Cliffside Inn has been busy planting.  While it’s still a bit early, spring has sprung beautifully at the Cliffside Inn as color abounds.  We’ll never forget the gorgeous rose bushes there that were still in bloom during our visit in November. We’re still waiting on those, but throughout the summer and fall you’ll have that to look forward to also!

Azalea bushes at Cliffside Inn.

Azalea bushes in full bloom at Cliffside Inn.

Magnolias at Cliffside Inn, Newport, RI

The Magnolias are getting ready to bloom. Soon Cliffside Inn will be a sea of pink flowers.

Spring gardens at Cliffside Inn, Newport, RI

Spring gardens in front of the Cliffside Inn, getting ready to burst into bloom.

Next, our garden tour takes us to stately Lenox, MA where the Berkshire Mountains are aglow in the spring green of May.  The Gateways Inn & Restaurant is getting ready for their spring planting throughout the grounds.  In the meantime, planters next to the front door offer guests a warm welcome to the inn, restaurant and Piano Bar! Stop by for a single malt or some light fare after a show, and watch their schedule for live entertainment!

Gateways Inn entrance, Lenox, MA

Here’s a long view of the entrance to Gateways Inn with planters just filled for spring!

Gateways Inn, flowering bushes, Lenox, MA

Stand on the other side of the entry, and you’ll see flowering bushes in full bloom.

Finally, today’s tour will take us to Lower Waterford, VT and the Rabbit Hill Inn.  Known for its beautiful grounds, Leslie and Brian are adding yet another garden this year.  The new garden will be located in the back yard, below the shuffleboard court and will feature assorted miniature ornamental trees, perennials, & edible flowers.  Here’s a photo of Phase I – the planting phase, of course accomplished in the rain very recently, along with another photo of Brian’s annual trek to pick out the most perfect hanging baskets.

Rabbit Hill Inn garden, Lower Waterford, VT

Phase I of the new garden – Planting! One good thing about the rain this spring – the plants love it!

Hanging baskets at Rabbit Hill Inn, Lower Waterford, VT

Brian picks out the perfect hanging baskets at Sullivan’s Greenhouse & Nursery.

Spring has fully sprung, the grass is fully riz, now we’re hoping that #DINEcountry is where you is!  We know that the sun will shine throughout June.  Mother Nature owes it to us!  Choose between 11 DINE member inns for your next getaway. Each one features beautiful blooms and gorgeous rooms!  Drive safely on your way up!