Marilyn Anderson & Dennis Lanning’s
ROMANCE ON THE ROAD
MONMOUTH PLANTATION
36 Melrose Ave
Natchez, MS 39120
601.442-5852
www.monmouthplantation.com
Who would ever think of Natchez, Mississippi as a first choice for a romantic vacation? You might not have thought it before, but think it now! This disarmingly charming and beautiful locale overlooking the Mississippi River is miles from a major city, has no major airport and no interstate highways to get you there. But trust us; it’s more than worth your drive, flight or paddle-down-the-river to get there!
Natchez is filled with history, architectural delights and one of the largest collections of intact antebellum homes in the South. We had heard about the historic Monmouth Plantation and decided to stop there on our trip. We’re thrilled that we did.
Ronnie and Lani Riches, the owners for the last 30 years, have lovingly restored this National Historic Landmark to its full glory and imbued it with a genteel spirit that is palpable throughout. This feeling extends to their genuinely accommodating staff, many of whom have worked there for years.
There are 30 non-smoking rooms and suites, each with wi-fi and handsomely appointed period antiques and décor. The main house offers daily tours and contains their two first-rate restaurants. As you explore this antebellum gem, glance at the menus and you’ll see the prix fixe 5-course Chef’s Table offering. It’s served at a long, beautifully-appointed dining table that seats sixteen. Highly recommended and often sold out, you do not want to miss this gourmet experience.
Our first night, we arrived late, cold and hungry, and were shown to our suite by Roosevelt, a
charismatic man whose infectious smile, gracious words and obvious pride in his job confirmed that this was a special place. He told us how much he loved working at Monmouth; he’s been there for 21 years! Now that’s a sign they are doing something right.
We were too tired to go to the restaurant, so the staff insisted on sending us room service. And what a dinner they sent: Zesty Shrimp Soup, followed by Roast Muscovy Duck on Angel Hair Pasta with Porcini Dust, Asparagus and Mushrooms in tasty olive oil. Mmmm, we were indeed happy campers, comfortably ensconced in our spacious, antique-filled living room with a wonderful meal, a nice bottle of red wine and a toasty fireplace. It was a perfect first night in Natchez.
Our suite had a spacious bathroom with Jacuzzi tub and stall shower. The bedroom, with its magnificent canopy bed and flowing curtains, wins Marilyn’s “Best Wake-Up-In-the-Morning-and-Feel-Like-Scarlett-O’Hara Award.” It was luscious.
A sumptuous breakfast is included with all stays and is served in the Garden Room, a
separate building on the beautifully landscaped grounds. Leaving your room to wander the 26 acres gives you an opportunity to view all the outbuildings, lakes, fountains, vine-laden pergola, walking trails and even the Chef’s Herb Garden, securely watched over by a local cherub.
The Monmouth Plantation has garnered many awards over the years and there is no doubt why. It excels at everything a luxury resort should, with one additional element. We don’t know if it’s what you should expect from traditional “Southern Hospitality,” but transcending that, is the group of delightful people there. Our thanks to Debbie, Roosevelt, Carlton, Olivia, Vanessa, Hal and the marvelous kitchen staff for making our visit so special. And to Ronnie and Lani Riches whose love of place and people is apparent at the Monmouth Plantation.
With its lovely grounds, splendid staff, and superb food, the Monmouth Plantation is an idyllic place for a Destination Wedding. But you needn’t wait for your wedding. You can grab your sweetheart and whisk her off for some real Southern hospitality any time.
Make plans now because during the month of February, the Monmouth is offering a Valentine’s Romance Package. For $600, enjoy deluxe accommodations for 2 nights, a bottle of chilled champagne, box of chocolates, room service dinner for two one night, and relaxing in – room massages for two. Now, that’s romance!
MORE ON NATCHEZ
Natchez is a fabulous vacation spot all year round. We visited their state-of-the-artVisitor’s Reception Center which is more impressive than ones we’ve been to in much bigger cities. The Center is a great place to start your visit, with an orientation movie, brochures and tickets to all the plantations and sights in the area. There is much to see and do, and at different times of the year, they make it quite special.
Many of the antebellum houses have tours and some have restaurants on the premises. We ate lunch in the Castle Restaurant at the stately Dunleith Plantation. Afterwards, we toured two other National Historic Landmarks: Stanton Hall, a magnificent Greek Revival mansion; and Longwood, the largest octagonal house in America. Both of these have majestic settings and awe-inspiring histories that are presented by the Pilgrimage Garden Club of Natchez.
During “Pilgrimage” weeks, in addition to seeing the regular tourist plantations, visitors get to go into private homes. The residents dress up in traditional Old Southern garb, with the women swirling and shimmering in their organza hoop dresses. There are musical productions, theater, pageants, Gospel and historic presentations on stage every evening. Spring Pilgrimage is from March 7 – April 11, 2009 and Fall Pilgrimage is September 26 – October 10, 2009.
No matter what time of year you visit, the residents are gracious and welcoming, with an outstanding pride for their community and heritage. A trip to Natchez combines a glance back at history along with the ultimate setting for a distinctive and ultra-romantic vacation.
Natchez Visitor Reception Center
640 South Canal St.
Natchez MS, 39120
ph: 1-800-647-6724
www.visitnatchez.com
Also visit:
http://www.dunleith.com/castlerestaurant.php
http://www.stantonhall.com
http://www.natchezpilgrimage.com
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