Clifton Inn seems to be that perfect melding of history, southern charm, elegance, and modern comfort. Meredith stayed here for an evening while passing through Charlottesville, and it was in large part due to Clifton that we made this most recent return trip to the area. As our first trip to a Relais & Châteaux property since becoming 5c members, we enjoyed a delightful upgrade to the charming honeymoon cottage and the opportunity to visit Jefferson’s Monticello before we departed. The staff was extremely accommodating in helping us plan our days, the property was unbelievably gorgeous in the springtime, and our stay was wonderfully relaxing and peaceful. Walking the grounds of the dog-friendly inn with Orvis, through the woods and beside the lake, we couldn’t help but daydream about many, many future return trips.