Inn at Glencairn nominated for CN Traveler Readers Choice Award!

We are so excited to be nominated again this year for the Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards! We placed seventh last year for the Mid-Atlantic Region and are so appreciative of the honor. It has been a challenging year to say the least, and to be nominated for this prestigious award among these top hotels and resorts means the world to us.

We would be thrilled to place again this year. To vote, just go to: https://www.cntraveler.com/rca/vote and search for the Inn at Glencairn under Hotels & Resorts. (You will be asked to sign up for a newsletter but you can always unsubscribe.) And, take a moment to recognize your other favorites. Chances are they had a rough year too and could benefit from a little positive recognition! Thanks for your support!

Outdoor Pursuits in Central New Jersey

If you’re looking for a safe place to visit while awaiting your vaccine, celebrating having been vaccinated (our innkeeper, Lydia, is fully immune now), or just needing a different set of four walls, consider a stay at the Inn at Glencairn. We have nearly three acres of beauty to explore including our 200-year-old barn, stone stables, and old smokehouse. Take your complimentary wine out to the barn to enjoy intimate conversation at sunset or get your coffee in the morning, do some yoga or meditate while listening to the birds chirp. It’s finally Spring so it’s time to GET OUT!

If you’re into bicycling or hiking, consider any of these wonderful locations (bring your own or rent in Princeton):

Duke Farms

At Duke Farms, you’ll find over one thousand acres of land to explore native species, sustainability efforts, and the area’s natural beauty. Walk, bike, or take a class to learn more about conservation efforts and how you can fight climate change. Eat at the farm-sourced, award-winning café or support local farmers at the seasonal farm market. (At the time of this writing, Saturday visitors need to reserve a free entry pass per car. Register online for the pass.)

D&R Canal Trail (Lydia’s favorite)

Enjoy the nearly 80 miles of flat trail that follow the D&R Canal. This is a quiet ride that takes you through beautiful meadows, quaint towns with wonderful coffee shops and cafes, and offers incredible views. The trail starts in New Brunswick and ends in Frenchtown, but you can get on and off in any of about 30 spots along the trail. Consider the four mile ride into Princeton for lunch or dinner so you can work off Lydia’s deliciously filling breakfast.

Lawrenceville Hopewell Trail

There is a nearly-finished 22-mile ride in and around Lawrenceville and Hopewell if you like a more challenging, not-always-flat-and-a-bit-urban ride around those two delightful towns. Stopping off for coffee, tea, or an amazing pastry in Lawrenceville or perhaps lunch in Hopewell should be on your list. Accessing the trail can be done a short one mile ride from the Inn’s driveway (Please use caution on Lawrenceville Road.)

TrailLink System

We are surrounded by dozens of excellent hiking and biking trails through the Rails-To-Trails system. One of Lydia’s current favorites is the Columbia Trail which starts at High Bridge (an easy one hour drive) and rides for about 15 miles. You pass charming towns, a Clydesdale horse farm, coffee shops, and quiet beauty through Central NJ.

Mercer Meadows

This little gem is only a short five minute drive from our parking lot and will keep you walking or biking for miles. It’s an old pole farm and a favorite with bird watchers and naturalists.

Lawrenceville Village Park

For a quick, close walk in a beautiful little town park, head into Lawrenceville and turn on Gordon. In about two miles you’ll drive right into this little charmer. The park actually connects up to Mercer Meadows if you haven’t had enough exercise. Bikes and hikes welcome, or take a book and enjoy reading in the sun.

Institute Woods

If you want to do some forest bathing, try the Institute Woods. A short drive into Princeton, Institute Woods is a beautiful, quiet place to walk, contemplate, and enjoy being alive. The paths are not paved so it’s best for walking, and you will likely encounter all kinds of happy wildlife.

Mercer County Park

This large park has a paved 3.5 mile (one way) bike ride that is pure delight; it has curves, straight shots, and a few rolling hills. Over the lake you can see any of the four pairs of nesting Bald Eagle couples fishing and feeding their chicks, which are hatching now. Juveniles can be seen flying, too. Bring your binoculars and a snack. Mercer Park has lots to offer besides bikes and walking paths. There is an amazing exercise station, new since the pandemic to help people get out while gyms have been closed.

Walking in the Footsteps of History

History abounds in Princeton since this is where the Revolutionary War took a turn toward our side. Princeton is home to several signers of the Declaration of Independence, a place for Washington and his troops during the battle of Princeton, field headquarters for Washington during the War, a five month meeting place for Congress, the final resting place for Aaron Burr, Jr (famous for killing Hamilton), and more.

Princeton University

Walking the campus of Princeton University is not to be missed. The beauty of the Gothic architecture is something to behold. You will need your camera handy to capture and enjoy the beauty of the buildings, archways, and gardens.

Need more reasons to visit Princeton? Let’s talk about the Culinary Presence: Dozens of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants are serving up top notch food that have locals and tourists returning time and again. We have indoor and outdoor dining for your comfort. We have artisan pizza, steaks, chops, generations old bread baking, farm-to-table, and James Beard winning chefs at work. French, Italian, Greek, Thai, Chinese, and American, among others.

"Best Quiche Ever"

When your Chef and Innkeeper says she just made the best quiche ever, you take note, especially when guests tell you that they nearly proposed to her after having her scrambled eggs! Travel is still slow these days, but Lydia continues to try new recipes and perfect old ones. Here is her latest. Or as she calls it “one of the best quiches ever … really!”

Sausage and Spinach Quiche:

8 ounces of your favorite ground sausage

4 ounces of cream cheese

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

5 eggs

1 1/4 cup heavy cream

Handful of spinach

Directions: Brown the ground sausage. Add cream cheese and mix so sausage is covered. Remove from heat and pour into pie plate. Add a little water to the pan used for sausage and wilt the handful of spinach. Layer the wilted spinach on top of the sausage mixture. Cover with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Blend the eggs with the heavy cream and pour over the mixture in the pie plate. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Microweddings are Here to Stay!

Fabulous florals by Blue Jasmine Floral were one of the highlights of this Microwedding.

In 2020, many brides and grooms were forced to cancel their large weddings because of Covid related lockdowns and travel restrictions.  Just thinking of planning an event where guests would be coming from afar or where older family members might be at increased risk, had many couples reevaluating their special day and opting for a much smaller event. What seemed like a 2020 trend is now looking like a longer term shift.

The many microweddings and elopements we have witnessed this past year have varied greatly. Some are simple affairs that involve the couple, an officiant and a photographer.  Some are more elaborate, full blown celebrations, where the couple has decided to splurge on things that matter most to them.  Sometimes that means gorgeous floral design and gourmet catering.  Sometimes it is a celebrity wedding photographer. Sometimes it is a big city stylist and a couture wedding gown. Sometimes it is all of these things and no expense is spared for the lucky handful of invited guests. However the event unfolds, it is as special and unique as the couple involved.

At some point, the pandemic will be a distant memory, and time will tell if the shift toward microweddings is long lasting. Until then, we will continue to provide a blank canvas for our couples to design their perfect wedding day. We wish all of our couples a lifetime of happiness and will look forward to seeing them back at the Inn to celebrate their anniversaries!

Inn at Glencairn named top 10 Hotel in the Mid-Atlantic by Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards!

When we converted our 18th century farmhouse into the Inn at Glencairn, we knew it would be a labor of love. At the time, many nearby historic properties were being deserted, boarded up, and demolished. We wanted to preserve Glencairn and give it life as a sustainable enterprise.

With just five guest rooms, we knew the Inn could not compete on size with the big chain hotels in the Princeton area, but we also knew that those big chains could not offer the unique history, charm, and personality that a small country Inn can provide its guests. So, we focused on what we could offer: A respite from the average hotel stay. We set out to create an environment that would transport travelers to a cozy country estate owned by a favorite relative. 

Now, over fifteen years later, we are so excited to be a recipient of the Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Award! Being ranked in the top 10 for properties in the Mid-Atlantic really is such an honor. We are beyond grateful to our past and present guests who recognized us by voting. To be on the same list as The Rittenhouse and the Four Seasons is pretty humbling. Our staff, Lydia and Sindi, deserve the accolades. They are constantly striving to improve the guest experience and have been so resilient and dedicated, especially during the current environment. 

So, a big thank you to our guests and to our staff. We are beyond grateful to receive this award! Check out the list of winners for the mid-Atlantic below. 

Condé Nast Traveler’s full Top 10 Hotels in the mid-Atlantic ranking includes:

1. The Rittenhouse: Total score: 99.55.

2. Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center: Total score: 99.23

3. The Reeds at Shelter Haven: Total score: 99.04.

4. The MC Hotel, Autograph Collection, located in Montclair, New Jersey. Total score: 98.54.

5. Troutbeck, located in Amenia, New York. Total score: 98.31.

6. The Roxbury at Stratton Falls, located in Roxbury, New York. Total score: 97.72.

7. Inn at Glencairn, located in Princeton, New Jersey. Total score: 96.97.

8. The Ivy Hotel, located in Baltimore: Total score: 96.92.

9. Historic Hotel Bethlehem, located in Bethlehem: Total score: 95.63.

10. The Study at University City: Total score: 90.45.

Book a Two Night Getaway at the Inn at Glencairn and Receive the Second Night Free!

We understand that the current pandemic has changed a lot of things recently.  But, we want to let you know what it has not changed, here at the Inn at Glencairn:

• It has not changed the immediate feeling of warmth when you walk through the door.

• It has not changed the delicious freshly made chocolate chip cookies greeting you upon your arrival. (It has changed the location: They are now waiting for you in your room!)

• It has not changed the chef prepared, gourmet breakfast served in our beautiful Dining Room. (But we only serve one room at a time.)

• It has not changed the homemade jams, butters, granola, and preserves that accompany every breakfast. (You can even take some home for later!)

• It has not changed the personal attention you receive from Lydia or the concierge service she provides, if you ask. She is social distancing and behind a mask, but she still knows more about the area than anyone!

• It has not changed the delightful furnishings, nor has it changed the historic ambiance and pub atmosphere in the Great Room that dates back to 1736.

The Hunt Room featuring a King Sized bed and Custom Greek Key Molding.

So when you start lamenting everything that has changed, we would like to let you know that we are still doing what we do best, providing hospitality.

We invite you to take a much needed break from your four walls and take advantage of our Fall Getaway special: Book your two night stay with us from now until April 1, 2021 and receive the second night free. Please call 609.497.1737 to make your reservation.  (Note: Exemptions do apply, and the special is valid for NEW reservations made for a weekday stay Sunday through Thursday. Give us a call with any questions! ) 

And, yes, we understand that travel plans change and sometimes states end up on the quarantine list suddenly. So, with that in mind, whatever you book is completely flexible.  You can use your credit ANY time you want if you need to change your original plan.  

Inn at Glencairn receives the 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award!

Inn at Glencairn receives 2020 Travelers’ Choice Award from TripAdvisor

We are thrilled to receive the 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award! The award has replaced the former Certificate of Excellence, so this is the sixth continuous year the Inn has received this award. As our guests know, we take our job seriously, and we strive to give each guest a wonderful, authentic stay. Thank you to the nearly 400 guests who took the time to sit down and give us their honest feedback. We continued to maintain our pace of hitting the mark with 98% of our reviews in the Excellent to Good category! Kudos to our Innkeeper, Lydia, who is often mentioned by name and whose breakfasts are nearing legendary status. 2020 has been a tough one, to say the least, but it is the kind words of our guests that keep us going!

Travel in Pandemic Times

We have had the pleasure of sitting through many webinars for hoteliers dealing with the current pandemic. As we listen to what we should be doing, we find ourselves looking at each other and saying more often than not, "We've been doing that all along."  

Sure, mandatory face masks are a new thing and no, Lydia is not handing out hugs and handshakes anymore. But, we have always required our staff to clean and disinfect guest rooms after each stay.  We have always required our staff to disinfect all linens after each stay. We have always regularly sanitized high traffic common areas. We have to wonder why other hotels have not been doing the same?

What is new? Well, like we said, masks are mandatory. Check in and check out is "no touch." Hand sanitizer is available throughout the Inn.  Our famous chocolate chip cookies will be in your room upon check in (sorry, now you have to ask for more!)  Our breakfast will be waiting for you at your scheduled time slot, so that the occupants of the dining room are only those people from your room or your family unit. Housekeeping will only enter your room upon check out, unless you specifically request for service during your stay. And, we are now leaving a 24 hour minimum vacancy between guests in the same room. Just to be on the safe side. 

Take a look at our reviews, we are consistently lauded for our cleanliness. We had these best practices in place since we opened nearly 15 years ago. As you consider your future travel options, we hope that you will continue to place your trust in us, knowing that we had these high standards in place all along.  

History of the Inn: Harry the Trapper

Ever wonder where we got the inspiration for naming our rooms? We dug into the archives of the nearly 300 years of Glencairn history and paid tribute to a few of its interesting inhabitants. The Baldwin Suite is named for perhaps the most fascinating character of Glencairn, Harry Baldwin, or more affectionately known as Harry the Trapper.

Harry lived in the Stone Wing of the house around the turn of the nineteenth century and was employed as a farmer on the property. The farm at that time ran up past Carter Road and onto the property now owned by Bristol Myers. Harry tended to the cows, chopped wood, and became known around the area as a first class trapper. He earned a fair amount of income from trapping animals and selling their fur. Children would bring their trapped muskrats, raccoons, and skunks to Harry, and Harry would skin them for 25 cents and sell them to a local buyer. Given his rough and tumble ways, Harry always smelled a little of skunk and had a habit of spitting tobacco wherever he pleased! Yet, despite his crude ways, Harry was also honest to a fault and known as a kind person.

The Great Room Fireplace

Years later, after we converted the farmhouse into the Inn at Glencairn, we were fortunate to strike up a friendship with a descendant of Harry, our dear friend Audrey. She loved Halloween, and made an annual pilgrimage to the Inn to stay in the Baldwin Suite hoping for a “visit” from her dear, departed relative. Harry never showed up, but we always enjoyed our visits with Audrey!

So, next time you walk into the stone side of the Inn and up to the Baldwin Suite, close your eyes and imagine a time when Harry was living there enjoying a good book by the fire or sharing some stories with the children who brought him their hides!

In Times of Uncertainty: We Think Smaller is Better!

Worried about travel in the age of a rapidly spreading Coronavirus?  With a small staff, we know our crew is trained to diligently clean and disinfect rooms after each stay.  Our Housekeepers, Sindi and Lis, are often the unsung heroes of our Inn. They have been diligently working to keep your rooms sparkling clean for nearly four years now. Given the high turnover in the hospitality industry, we are thankful that we have such reliable, trustworthy, and professional housekeepers at the Inn.  That along with our second-to-none Innkeeper, Lydia, gives us great confidence that we are providing a safe and healthy environment for our guests.

Our reviews keep us on our toes, and time and again, our guests tell us that our Inn is among the cleanest establishments they have visited during their travels. The truth is, with the constant turnover in the hospitality industry, it is comforting to know exactly who is preparing your food and cleaning your room.  Many of our larger competitors with larger staffs cannot offer the same level of personalized service and consistency. Sometimes we view our small size as a challenge, but in times of uncertainty, we firmly believe smaller is better! 

That said, we understand travel plans have been changing rapidly during this uncertain time, so please know that if you book directly with us either via our website or by telephone, we will extend your reservation to a later date, if you require additional flexibility due to travel constraints. (Reservations booked through a third party travel site such as Expedia, hotels.com, and booking.com are nonrefundable.)

Central New Jersey DOES Exist!

Recently, we found ourselves sitting in a meeting of local businesses with the goal of highlighting agritourism in Central New Jersey.  We walked away even more in love with this special region we call home.  Years back, when we were city dwellers, we would make day trips to Central New Jersey along with other more popular areas upstate.  Time and again, we returned to this area and eventually put down roots here.  During the past 20 years, we have seen remarkable changes: The restaurant scene has exploded, thanks to the farm-to-table movement, the art scene has grown, and yet, the countryside remains largely untouched and the charming towns retain their small town appeal. (Spoiler: This is not the New Jersey of malls and exits.)

When we first opened the Inn at Glencairn, our guests were coming to the Princeton area for a reason.  They were visiting schools, traveling for business, or simply coming to see relatives.  Our favorite review came from someone who said, “if you can make my mother happy, you are a miracle!”  We clearly filled a need for people looking to avoid the cookie cutter hotels dotting the major highways, but most our guests were just passing through.

Now, we are starting to see more and more guests who are visiting the area as a destination.  Finally, people are beginning to see what we fell in love with 20 years ago.  Central New Jersey does exist and it has a lot to offer.  Guests can easily spend several days visiting the local farms, romantic vineyards, craft breweries and distilleries, and fascinating historic sites. The Garden State is alive and well in Central New Jersey!

Did you know:

• Central New Jersey is where the War of American Independence was saved, thanks to George Washington’s daring decision in 1776 to cross the Delaware River to win battles at Trenton and Princeton.

• Central New Jersey provided the nation’s first Capitol building, as the Continental Congress met at Nassau Hall, now the most famous ivy-draped building on the campus of Princeton University.

• Central New Jersey was the first “breadbasket” of America’s greatest city, New York, producing corn and wheat, tomatoes, and other crops critical to feeding the “Big Apple.”

• Central New Jersey is home to the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park, one of the most stunning historic and recreation assets you’ll find anywhere—though we’ve sort of kept it a secret. The canal was once vital to bringing the bounty of the Garden State to New York. Today, it is a highly accessible recreation area for New Jersey, New York, and Philadelphia.

These are just a few reasons to come for a visit.  The bit above is “borrowed” from the Discover Central New Jersey website.  Take a moment to visit their website and start to plan your next retreat from the city.  Be sure to make the Inn at Glencairn your home base as you explore the area.  You cannot get more authentic than staying in an 18th century farmhouse that was overtaken by Hessians during the Revolutionary War.  And, while we cannot say for certain that George Washington ever stepped foot on the property, we are pretty sure he marched past on his way to Princeton!

Eco-Friendly Practices at the Inn at Glencairn

At the Inn at Glencairn, we have been incorporating sustainable practices into our business for some time.  In fact, our entire business model was built on the philosophy of preserving and restoring an 18th century farmhouse and filling it with beautiful antique and vintage furniture and paintings!

Since we first opened our doors in 2004, we had a towel reuse policy; as the years went on, we extended that to bed linens for guests who did not want their linens washed daily.  Also, since day one, we had programmable thermostats in guest rooms and an active recycling program.  We are fortunate to live in a town that recycles, and we take advantage of their programs.  Lately, we have started recycling plastics that are not typically included in the municipal program by taking them to recycling centers such as Whole Foods and local farmers markets.  More recently, we discontinued the practice of using plastic water bottles.  We have a highly inspected and regulated well on the property, and we enjoy our very own spring water!  You will also notice that we use real glass, china, and cutlery rather than disposable products.

We have begun to switch out less eco-friendly items for more sustainable products as their useful life ends:  We have begun phasing in LED lighting, and we have installed solar lighting outside where it makes sense. Where possible, we blend our own cleaning and laundry products using natural ingredients.  And, finally, in the kitchen, we endeavor to buy local and organic ingredients, and we have increased our daily breakfast to include two new options that allow guests with smaller appetites to enjoy a full breakfast without leaving a plateful of waste for the landfill. Plus, we are constantly adding to our list of “made from scratch” goodies such as baked goods, yogurt, granola, jams & jellies.

We look forward to adding new initiatives as the year continues.  The best part of being eco-conscious is that many of our initiatives take place behind the scenes without sacrificing the comfort of our guests, and in many instances it can enhance their stay.  We fully anticipate that the Inn will be around well into the next century, and we will do our best to minimize its carbon footprint so future generations can enjoy its unique history and ambiance.  

Better than Airbnb Sale: Stay five nights for the price of four! Weekends included!

It is time for our first "Better than Airbnb" Sale!  Book your five-night stay from now until April 2, 2020 and receive one night free. Take advantage of this great offer to stay at our award winning Bed and Breakfast!

The "Better than Airbnb" Sale cannot be combined with any other offers and must be made directly through us via phone. Face it: You know you are not going to get this fabulous breakfast at an airbnb!

Take advantage of our special and we bet you will be hooked! Need a reason to visit the Princeton area? Grounds for Sculpture, McCarter Theatre, and Palmer Square always have something exciting going on!

Make Breakfast Like an Innkeeper!

Learn to "make Breakfast like an Innkeeper" with our Innkeeper, Lydia, at the Princeton Adult School. Sign up now to join a class at the Princeton Adult School taught by our Innkeeper, Lydia.

Learn the secrets to her fabulous breakfasts, including, how to poach a perfect egg! Register here by entering 159A, B, C, or D in the keyword search.

Mention the class, and you will receive a free bag of homemade granola when you stay at the Inn!

Inn at Glencairn recognized in TripAdvisor Hall of Fame!

We are so thrilled to be recognized in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for receiving the Certificate of Excellence award for five continuous years from 2015 to 2019. We strive to give each guest a wonderful visit, and we take our reviews seriously! Thank you to the nearly 400 guests who took the time to sit down and give us feedback on their stay. Luckily, we hit the mark more often than not with 98% of our reviews in the Excellent to Good category! Kudos to our past Innkeepers who have laid the groundwork and to our current Innkeeper, Lydia, who has elevated our breakfasts and customer outreach to an exciting new level. Looking forward to another great year at the Inn at Glencairn!

Airbnb versus a "real" Bed and Breakfast or aka my Airbnb Rant

When it comes to Airbnb, I have issues. Maybe it’s because I own a “real” Bed and Breakfast, and I find most Airbnbs to be cheap copycats that skirt around the edges of what’s legal and ethical. An Airbnb is not a business, it’s an under-regulated, over-hyped, step above couch surfing. But I digress.

When I opened the Inn at Glencairn, it was after a long, arduous year of renovations, planning board meetings, township approvals, and numerous fire and health inspections. Had I opened an Airbnb, I could have skipped the time and money that went into the renovations, meetings and approvals and simply cobbled together a page on the Airbnb site and opened up for business. It definitely would have been the easier route. And cheaper. And less risky. And probably more profitable.

Until quite recently, Airbnb sales were “under the table” and exempt from paying state and local occupancy and sales taxes. A “real” Bed and Breakfast is a full-fledged lodging business and is required to pay occupancy and sales taxes, like a hotel. In our municipality, that equates to 16.625%, which is quite a chunk of cash and figures prominently into our pricing model.

Did you know that an Airbnb might be illegal in the city or town you are visiting? Roughly 70% of the Airbnb reservations taken in NYC were illegal in 2014. The influx of Airbnb accommodations in some cities are driving up the prices of affordable housing for residents. Sure Airbnb is a lower cost alternative to other lodging options, but maybe the lower price is a result of an illegal sublet or an owner skirting the law when it comes to paying taxes.

Each year, the Inn at Glencairn is inspected by our local fire inspector. The inspector spends about two hours going from room to room and making sure our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are up to date. The inspection can be unnerving because we take our responsibilities very seriously. Our smoke and carbon detectors are hard-wired to a central station that is notified immediately and automatically dispatches the local Fire Department if an alarm is triggered.

Does your Airbnb have working smoke or carbon monoxide detectors? If it does, are they the most up-to-date and recently inspected? If an alarm is triggered, who responds? Is it up to the occupants to determine what to do in case of an emergency? Our fire inspector also requires us to have fire extinguishers on every level and tag our rooms with directions to evacuate in the event of an emergency. Does your Airbnb have emergency evacuation instructions or fire extinguishers? Maybe not.

Also once a year, the Health Inspector comes in and inspects our kitchen to make sure our appliances are in working order. She makes sure that our dishwasher reaches the proper temperature to disinfect our plates and cutlery and that our refrigerator maintains the proper temperature to keep our food fresh and free from bacteria. Also, she inspects for pests to make sure we are maintaining a clean and sanitary environment. Does your Airbnb provide documentation that it is inspected and is pest free? Maybe not.

It is much easier to “game” a review on Airbnb than it is on TripAdvisor, Yelp, Google, Expedia and Booking.com. In fact, misrepresentation runs rampant on Airbnb. Reviews for a “real” Bed and Breakfast are vetted by the aforementioned sites and guests must provide proof that they stayed at the lodging establishment for a review to be considered valid.

Running a “real” Bed and Breakfast means you have a staff on hand to assist with any issue that may arise during your stay. At an Airbnb you are literally on your own unless the owner lives nearby and is responsive to your requests. Have an issue with the thermostat, good luck! Unless the owner is a quick call away, you may be sitting in the extreme heat or cold waiting for assistance. What about the lack of amenities in an Airbnb? Maybe it has enough towels, maybe it has enough toilet paper, maybe it has shampoo, maybe it has a hair dryer. Then again, maybe it doesn’t have any of these things, and maybe you have to spend your hard earned vacation time purchasing them.

So, next time you consider an Airbnb over a “real” Bed and Breakfast or even a hotel, consider the time, energy and expense that goes into providing an authentic local lodging experience. Consider the inspections, the taxes, and the staffing. Then make an informed decision on how you want to spend your vacation dollars.

Inn at Glencairn awarded 2018 Certificate of Excellence Award!

We are thrilled to announce that the Inn at Glencairn has been awarded the 2018 Certificate of Excellence Award from TripAdvisor.

The Inn has received this honor for the past four years, making it the only lodging establishment in the area to consistently earn such high marks from travelers on TripAdvisor since 2015.

The Certificate of Excellence celebrates businesses that continually earn great traveler reviews and receive strong praise and ratings from travelers. We are honored to be included among the best of the best!

Weekend Escape to Princeton Region

“Lazy and good-looking and aristocratic, you know, like a spring day” is how F. Scott Fitzgerald once described Princeton. He might have been describing the University, but he could easily have been describing the town as well. Although a lot has changed since Fitzgerald lived in the area, it is still “the loveliest riot of Gothic architecture in America … no feeling that it was all built yesterday at the whim of last week’s millionaire.”

Although one might point out the ultra-modern examples of architecture and the shiny, new neighborhoods on the outskirts of town, by and large the area continues to retain the classic ambience of years past, making it the perfect weekend escape. Here is our favorite weekend itinerary. It’s a mix of culture and art, outdoor pursuits, shopping, and just plain fun!

Friday

4pm: Arrive at the Inn at Glencairn

Leave work a little early, and treat yourself to an early arrival to the Inn. Once settled in, you can wander the nearly three acres of park like grounds, peek into the 19th century barn and admire the hand-hewn beams, then grab a complimentary glass of wine and a cookie to enjoy on the back patio or in the peaceful ambience of the Great Room.

6pm: Dinner at Cargot Brasserie

Drive ten minutes to Princeton University’s newly monikered “arts and transit” neighborhood to dine at a new favorite of ours: Cargot Brasserie, a French inspired bistro that welcomes locals, students, and theater-goers in a convivial atmosphere.

8pm: Grab a show at McCarter Theatre

McCarter Theatre is recognized as one of the country’s leading theaters, both a professional producing theater and a major presenter of the performing arts. Grab a play or a concert and you will understand why this theater is constantly receiving rave reviews.

Saturday

9am: Breakfast at the Inn

Wake up to the smell of freshly ground coffee wafting up to your room. You may have a difficult time getting out of bed, but the promise of a fantastic breakfast urges you on. Today it is Eggs Glencairn, a new take on Eggs Benedict, with a poached egg served over a toasted croissant, broiled tomato slice, fresh sautéed asparagus and local greens topped with a lite Hollandaise sauce. Don’t forget to finish off your breakfast with a little chocolate decadence: Lydia’s homemade java truffle.

11am: Soak in some art at Grounds for Sculpture

The vision of J. Seward Johnson, Grounds for Sculpture was conceived as a place where audiences could experience sculpture in a familiar, accessible, and informal setting. The sculpture park is built on the site of the former New Jersey State Fairgrounds and now exhibits over 270 works on 42 acres. Spend an hour or spend a day here wandering the grounds and marveling at the truly awe-inspiring art and sculpture.

1pm: Wander over to Rat’s Restaurant for lunch

Rat’s Restaurant was conceptually designed by Seward Johnson with a Claude Monet styled atmosphere. The restaurant scenery features impressionist-inspired sculptures as well as a lily pond and bridge and is aptly named after the character “Ratty” from Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows. Ratty, as you might recall, threw the best parties with the best wine, and Rat’s is no different.

3pm: Shop ‘til you drop at Palmer Square

Head back to the Princeton area and take a stroll on Palmer Square. Originally built in the 1930s, the Square was created as the town’s complement to Princeton University. In order to build the Square, Baker Street was removed and its houses, which were the center of the original African American neighborhood were moved to Birch Avenue. Today Palmer Square is unique mix of local and well-known apparel and home goods boutiques and world class restaurants all centered around the Nassau Inn. Although we truly enjoy perusing all of the shops along Palmer Square, we never miss a stop at the Bent Spoon, Labyrinth Books, Homestead or jazams. Meander a little further afield to check out the Princeton Record Exchange.

Saturday Evening Option I:

5pm: By now you need to sit down so catch a flick at the Princeton Garden Theatre

Built originally to accommodate Princeton University’s Triangle Club in 1920, The Garden took on a new life as a movie theater when Triangle moved to McCarter Theatre later that decade. The Garden changed hands several times in the next few decades until its latest renovation in 2014 and now shows independent, foreign, and classic films for local movie lovers. In 2017, NJ.com named the Garden, The Best Movie Theater in New Jersey.

8pm: Dinner at Agricola

Using fresh local ingredients from their own Great Road Farm as well as from other neighboring providers, Agricola serves food that brings people together to laugh, share and celebrate. Agricola is one of our favorites along with Witherspoon Grill, Mistral and Blue Point Grill.

Saturday Evening Option II:

5pm: Drive through the countryside to Hopewell and dine at the Brick Farm Tavern

A truly authentic farm-to-table dining experience in an 1800s Hopewell farm house. The bar features local craft beers, artisanal cocktails & wine tastings – guided by an experienced sommelier.

8pm: Enjoy a show or concert at Hopewell Theater

Hopewell Theater is a 180-seat theater that is equal parts indie arts venue and meeting place – a place where patrons can meet friends, and get inspired by an eclectic mix of entertainment by emerging and established talent in a setting that is welcoming, casual, intimate, and fun.

Sunday

9am: After sleeping like a baby, wake up to some more fabulous scents from the kitchen

Today, indulge in some Glencairn French Toast. French Toast made with “Craque”lin (a Belgian brioche) topped with real maple syrup and fresh berries and served with our yogurt granola parfait. This will fill you up for your day’s adventure.

11am: Check out of the Inn

After checking out of the Inn, take a drive around the area and visit the local farms to take home some local goods and produce. Pop into Cherry Grove for some organic cheese, Blue Moon Acres for some organic greens and herbs, and Terhune Orchards for some apples. On your drive, stop at the Gingered Peach for a special baked treat to enjoy later.

1pm: Take the Princeton Tour Company’s “Name Dropping” Tour

Dubbed the best tour in town, the name-dropping tour visits the homes and hangouts of Albert Einstein, F Scott Fitzgerald, TS Eliot, Woodrow Wilson, Grover Cleveland, Robert Wood Johnson and even ‘80’s icon, Brooke Shields, just to name a few.

3pm: Grab a quick lunch at Jammin’ Crepes

Oh so good, Jammin’ Crepes is the perfect spot for a quick lunch before heading out of area. Imagine a fresh, made-from-scratch crepe filled with the best local ingredients at their peak of freshness. Either eat in the charming café or take it on the road for the drive home.

Stay tuned for more weekend getaways including: Girlfriends Getaway, Foodies Weekend, Culture Club and Outdoor Pursuits!

Business Travel Reimagined

What do you think of when you hear “business travel?” If you are most business travelers, you think of nondescript hotels, often located on busy interstates with generic furnishings and rubbery mass produced “eggs” for breakfast. The Inn at Glencairn has changed that image of business travel for the lucky professionals who have walked through our doors.

At the Inn, you will enjoy a stay that is anything BUT generic and our eggs are certainly NOT mass produced. We offer all the creature comforts and amenities that you would expect in a first class boutique hotel.

We have reliable WIFI, comfortable working surfaces, good lighting, quiet rooms and ultra-comfortable beds. And, to get your day started right, we offer a breakfast that is unmatched by any of the hotels in the area, served at the time of your choice.

Maybe a bed and breakfast isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of business travel, but our repeat business guests know different. So, instead of imagining a generic, nondescript hotel for your next business trip, imagine meeting your colleagues over a gourmet farm-to-table breakfast in our dining room, or casually meeting in our 18th century Great Room over a cup of tea or coffee. Check out our reviews and see why our business guests keep coming back to the Inn at Glencairn!

Quiche, Quiche, and more Quiche!

After many servings of quiche made every possible way, our own Chef Lydia has discovered that most of our guests prefer not to indulge in the carb-heavy (though entirely tasty) butter crust. Therefore she has perfected a crust-less quiche that is popular with everyone and results in a spotlessly clean plate when finished!

Chef Lydia’s recipe is often requested, so here it is for you to make at home.

Quiche Glencairn

Blend to a creamy liquid:

• 4 eggs

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Spray a pie dish with nonstick spray and layer any prepped vegetable and cheese choices that you like. (See below for ideas!)

Pour the egg liquid (described above) over the layers.

Bake at 325 degrees F for 35 to 55 minutes depending on your oven.

When done, the middle should barely jiggle and you should see color around the edges.

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Some popular combinations at the Inn are:

• Marinated artichoke and Dubliner cheese (KerryGold)

• Sautéed asparagus, chopped fresh spinach, cheddar cheese

• Broiled tomatoes (heirloom or cherry), fresh basil cut into ribbons, mozzarella cheese

• Fried and drained sage sausage, caramelized leeks and bell peppers, shredded Gouda cheese

Be creative and try your own favorite vegetables, herbs and spices, and cheese combinations!