Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Seven Oaks – Lake Geneva, WI



The turn onto Wells Street, just before entering the 2 block long heart of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, takes you on a path that is parallel, but not directly adjacent to the Lake itself. Due to its less desirable geography, the street has long been home to a strip of 1950’s and 60’s era motor inns that catered to the budget-conscious traveler, long before the days of Southwest Airlines. But recently, a gem has emerged from this strip of peeling Americana. The Seven Oaks B&B Inn, which opened in the spring of 2006, has transformed one of these aging properties into a quiet getaway within a getaway.

As Lake Geneva has been revitalized in recent years, the center of the small downtown has become a popular place on weekends, both in and out of season. Staying downtown can have the air of a low-grade frat party on certain nights. Resorts like the Grand Geneva (the former Playboy Club) and Geneva National offer more tranquility, but are also relatively isolated from the town itself. Seven Oaks occupies a location, which is just far enough from the city center to offer a relaxing atmosphere. It’s also close enough for a leisurely walk into town in fair weather.

A small hanging sign, without a trace of neon, quietly announces the Seven Oaks entranceway. 9 free-standing cottages flank the paved driveway which terminates in the equally renovated main house. Follow the small sign to the secondary entrance near the garage, which serves as the guest reception area. The hosts, Leon and Amanda, are cordial and accommodating. Originally from London, they bring more than a touch of English civility to the surroundings, and their attention to detail did not go unnoticed.

As we carried our bags into the Wimbledon cabin, a light snow began to drift downward with the calmness of a snow globe. The front door opens on a small tiled area, with a breakfast table on the left, and a wet bar on the right. The small refrigerator beneath the sink contained bottled water, a welcome plate of cheese, fruit and crackers and a chilled bottle of sauvignon blanc. (Choose from among 7 wine selections when making your reservation.) The counter and cabinets are stocked with all the tools and ingredients for a full coffee and tea service, including separate cups for coffee and tea and a separate tea pot for boiling water.

An L-shaped sectional sofa separates the kitchen from the living area. A leather bench/cocktail table fronts the sofa and provides ample room for both drinks and weary feet. A stone façade encases the gas fireplace on the opposite wall, which provides palpable heat on a cold winter day. A large flat-panel TV is embedded in the wall above the fireplace. A full range of cable channels, a DVD library and free wi-fi provide multiple entertainment options from the comfort of the couch.

The separate bedroom is simple, but refined. The king-size bed is covered in high thread count linens and multiple over-stuffed pillows, and connects to a master bathroom. One side of the bath is dominated by a 2 person spa tub, which is amply deep to allow for a soothing soak, and is accented with a supply of locally made soap and bath salts. The stand-alone shower stall is equipped with 1 overhead and 2 side jets, with independent flow controls. Step from the spa or shower onto the heated tile floor, and then grab a warm towel from the heated rack. Provided robes complete the pampered experience.

In warmer months, a fenced in area, far from street traffic, is home to a quaint English garden. Tables, chairs and rockers, provide a quiet spot to read, play cards or have a cocktail. What makes Seven Oaks even more tranquil for a romantic weekend is its policy that excludes pets and children from the premises. So as not to give the wrong impression, I would characterize Seven Oaks as a place for Grown-ups, not Adults-Only. Rates start at $189/night, and a 3 night stay will earn a 50% discount on one night’s stay. Seven Oaks is open year-round, unless otherwise noted on their website.


Launch Pad Tip: The homemade caramel and cheese popcorn, the “Chicago mix”, at Constant Cravings in downtown Lake Geneva, is almost worth the 90 mile trip alone.

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