Your Home Away From Home
By Tina Price

     Within the peaceful surroundings of Sycamore Ridge is a quaint form of escape: Stone Manor Bed & Breakfast.  The establishment, which was purchased by Don and Mary Davis nine years ago at auction, was built in 1966.  In the past, the structure was used as the clubhouse for Sycamore Ridge Golf Course.
      After the duo purchased the house their intent changed.  At first, they renovated for the purpose of reselling the home.  Then however, friends suggested the possibility of it being used as an inn, and because it had an adjacent bathroom to every bedroom, Mary explained, “It lent itself to it.  We had put so much work into it and we liked it too much to give it away.”
Mary and Don,who performed most of the revamping, including their own carpentry work, opened up their home as a bed and breakfast seven years ago.  It was featured in the 1997 Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour as well as in the national publication, Southern Living, last year.
     Those who visit Stone Manor will experience first hand the effort and little touches that make individuals come back year after year.
     “We try to achieve a home away from home.  We want our guests to feel like they are at their home,” Mary summarized.
And, boy oh boy, do they ever.
     First, the themed rooms that guests have to choose from are very relaxing.  The three themes, all nautical in nature, yet different, are boating, fishing, and golfing.  These are the three activities that many enjoy when visiting, and that locals appreciate the most at the lake. 
     The boating theme is seen in the Captain’s Quarters.  Not only is it spacious in size, but it also offers mates a picturesque view of the lake on both port and starboard sides.  Complete with nautical decor, this is inviting as well as refreshing.
If golfing is more your thing, then take a look at the Green Fairways room.  It not only showcases a lake view, but is designed to energize you for your next 18 holes of play.  Complete with golfing motif, it is sure to definitely hit a hole in one. 
     If you are more of an angler then the Fisherman’s Haven is where you would want to bunk.  This cozy room, accented with fishnet curtains and fishing knick-knacks, is a pure delight for the angler whose purpose is to land the “big one”.
As if the look of the rooms isn’t enough to make your stay a delight, then surely Mary’s muffins and specialties will make you bend to your knees with your mouth watering.
     Mary is known for offering guests either home baked cookies or pastries in the afternoon with a cold refreshing beverage, to keep you pampered and lively.
     To start off the day, a gourmet breakfast served at 8:30 a.m., includes fresh fruit and juices, inn-baked breads and muffins, specially prepared gourmet entrees, as well as country sausage or bacon.  With advance notice, Mary can accommodate any dietary restriction.
     In the way of entertainment, the grounds of Stone Manor lend themselves to quiet relaxation, from snuggling up to a good book on the patio to sunbathing on the deck alongside the inground pool.
Also, guests can enjoy the 690’ of waterfront with private docks and a lighted boardwalk for an afternoon getaway or a romantic evening stroll.
     If an afternoon or sunset picnic is more your vision, then Mary and Don will pack a meal for your enjoyment.
The kind duo agreed that they have met many individuals as guests who have since become their friends, reappearing year after year.
     In this casual atmosphere that breathes tranquility, you will not only make new friends but also enjoy the peace and quiet.
As their brochure says, “Whatever your pleasure, we will try to make your stay unforgettable,” and they will.
Stone Manor Bed and Breakfast, situated within Bedford County, is located off of Rt. 655 in Goodview.

For more information, visit their website at
www.bbonline.com/va/stonemanor/ or call (540) 297-1414.