ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – December 6, 2017 – (HISPANICIZE WIRE)- Eat, sleep, love and be merry! With the Holiday Season in full swing, Florida Historic Coast’s most grand historic homes are not only opening their doors to visitors who want to explore these magnificent bed and breakfast during the popular annual holiday tour of downtown B&Bs; but also offering an opportunity leave the holiday stress behind, pack up and take a romantic escape to experience one of the most impressive Christmas lights displays in the world during St. Augustine’s magical Nights of Lights (NOL).
Innkeepers will be ready to entertain and welcome guests in these elegant homes – dating back to 1700s – during the 24th Annual “Coastal Christmas” B&B Tour December 9 -13. Tour participants will be given a tour guide package with a map to help them navigate the tour. Over 20 of St. Augustine’s inns will show off their best Christmas decorations during NOL and partner with the finest restaurants and culinary specialists in the area to provide tantalizing food and drink throughout the tour. Having said that, the best way to truly experience the splendid B&Bs and NOL is to plan an overnight stay at one of these small, welcoming inns so you can take in all the magic of the sparkling, festive atmosphere of the town while enjoying all the dining, entertaining and tours this award-winning holiday celebration has to offer.
Selected by National Geographic as one of the 10 Best Holiday Displays in the world, NOL features over 3 million tiny white lights and reflects the city’s 450 plus year history by beautifully illuminating the oldest city in the U.S. St. Augustine historic buildings, museums, local businesses, the Bridge of Lions, the city’s Bayfront walkway, hotels, private residences and of course bed & breakfast inns will glow from the ground to the rooftops until January 31st. NOL traces its origins to the Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas; evoking familial warmth, a beacon of good hope and a welcome to weary travelers.
The Historic Bayfront Marin House fully restored centennial house with sweeping views of the bay is one of the stops on the B&B Tour and highlights of NOL. Registered in the “Certified Historic Structure,” Bayfront Marin is in the heart of the historic district and offers elegant guest rooms for the perfect St. Augustine holiday getaway with the best views anywhere in the ancient city from the spectacular Bridge of Lions and romantic St. Augustine lighthouse. Recently recognized as one of the Top 25 Hotels for Romance — in the U.S. by TripAdvisor, they are offering special two weeknights package (Sunday-Thursday) for NOL which includes exclusive and complimentary Old Town Trolley tour of the lights display. Complimentary peppermint bark sampler and a coupon for complimentary hot chocolate or mocha at Claude’s Chocolate. In January enjoy a romantic, manufactured snowstorm every Monday and Wednesday from 5-6 PM. Night rate begins at $249 per night.
Another stop on the tour is the award-winning Cedar House Inn (built in 1893) which blends Victorian elegance with modern amenities. Hardwood floors, antique and wrap-around porches create the feeling of a by-gone era perfectly cozy for a romantic escape. Also recognized this year by TripAdvisor as the overall winner in the “Bed and Breakfast” category ranking first in the U.S. out of 25. The inn’s romance and roses package makes for a perfect weekend stay at the inn which will include a chilled bottle of sparkling wine or cider, two Cedar House Inn keepsake flutes, a box of St. Augustine’s finest chocolates, a dozen long stemmed roses, and private Horse & Carriage ride for two. Night rate begins at $219 per night.
Finally, a stop during the tour in St. Augustine’s most historic bed and breakfast is the St. Francis Inn which dates from the city’s second Spanish Colonial period is a must. With plenty of old-world charm, the Inn’s individual decorated rooms and suites feature fireplaces and antiques. The peacefully walled courtyard is a favorite place to unwind. Gourmet full breakfasts, private balconies and porches and evening socials add to the festive holiday ambiance. Their Light up Your Life holiday package includes chilled champagne in your room on arrival, chocolate sampler box from our local chocolatier, Holiday Old Town Trolley Tour and more. Night rate range from $149-$329 per night/ two night required during NOL.
For more information about events, tours and deals in St. Augustine during Nights of Lights visit www.NightsofLights.com.
Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra Beach and 42 miles of pristine, Atlantic beaches. For more information on events, activities, holiday getaway and vacation opportunities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com, become a fan on Facebook or call 1.800.653.2489.