MOUNTAIN LAUREL INN BED AND BREAKFAST
by Kathie Farnell
Mountain Laurel Inn, a bed and breakfast located just outside Mentone in DeKalb County, offers plenty of opportunity for relaxation as well as exploring. The Inn's guesthouse is next to an easy 10-minute trail through woods to the back of DeSoto Falls. My evening ramble was enlivened by the sudden and unexpected presence of Baxter, a large, ebullient Irish setter who may be the only purebred dog in America to write a newsletter column (his thoughts appear in Innsight, the inn's publication; a recent issue detailed his adventures when, after swimming across DeSoto Falls, he was mistaken for a lost dog and taken away for an extended visit to Oxford, Alabama). Innkeeper Sarah Wilcox attended summer camp in the area and was a camp counselor as a teenager. Today, her camp cohorts bring their families to stay at Mountain Laurel, which provides four guest rooms and a two bedroom apartment, all located in a separate building from the main house and all beautifully decorated. Ample shady porches provide a spot to rock and take in the peaceful wooded setting. Guests at Mountain Laurel can start the day with coffee left right outside their room doors. Breakfast at the main building featured cinnamon bread and eggs ranchero during my visit. The Inn has become a popular honeymoon spot for couples who tie the knot at Mentone Wedding Chapel, right next door.
The Inn's seven wooded acres offer plenty of opportunity for birdwatching and exploring nature; the grounds include herb and native plant gardens to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Hikers have easy access to the bluff and canyon area. The Shady Grove Dude Ranch, located right next door, offers horseback rides. Shopping and restaurants are available in the historic town of Mentone, which was founded as a health spa in the last century. DeSoto State Park, DeSoto Falls and Little River Canyon are close by and offer plenty of outdoor activities. The Inn's library caters to those who would rather explore the great indoors. Rates start at $85/night double.
Getting There: Mentone is located about three hours northeast of Montgomery via I-65 to Birmingham and I-59 past Fort Payne; at exit 231, go right on State Highway 117. Stay on 117 through Mentone and turn right on County Road 165 (East River Road). Follow the green arrow signs to Mountain Laurel Inn, which shares an entrance with Mentone Wedding Chapel and Shady Grove Dude Ranch. For more information: DeKalb County Tourist Association, 256-8453957. Mountain Laurel Inn, 1-800-889-4244.
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Published December 1998, Alabama
Prime Times
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