In order to take a break from all the renovation projects at our old house, we looked for a special retreat to stay that would be easy access to dining in Charlottesville, as well as traveling to Jeffersonian sites.
CONVENIENT LOCATION
Remembering a charming inn I began following on social media a few years before, I discovered it was only a block away from a pedestrian courtyard bordered by over 120 shops and 30 restaurants inside historic buildings.
Since it was only three miles away from Monticello, we knew we found the perfect spot at The Inn at Court Square.
FEDERAL STYLE
Of the two properties, side by side, we stayed in the Butler-Norris House, which was built in the Federal style by Edward Butler (signer of the Albemarle Declaration of Independence) in 1785…the oldest existing house in the area.
Passing through various owners since 1808, Opie Norris eventually inherited the property, living there until 1880.
GARDENS
Love the bistro table set in the gardens on the quiet street…
STONEWALL JACKSON ROOM
Although my husband told me to choose any room I wanted, I decided on the Stonewall Jackson Room because he is a Civil War buff, and green is his favorite color.
My favorite parts were the four-poster bed and the sweet writing nook with a view of the historic courthouse frequented by Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe.
Each morning we enjoyed breakfast in the beautiful dining room.
DESIGNING OWNER
On our last evening, we met the owner, Candace DeLoach out front, who was wonderfully friendly, telling us about the history of the area.
After touring Monticello (again), the Jefferson toast to Lafayette at UVA’s Rotunda, Jefferson Vineyards, and Pippin Hill Farm Vineyards, and the impromptu historic courthouse visit, we are looking forward to returning to this lovely inn for more convenient Jeffersonian tours.
This trip prompted lots of research on Jefferson’s legacy on the Monticello Wine Trail, which I hope to visit more of.
