What it is

An iconic circa 1875 manse set on 40 beachfront acres, with 33 fairytale rooms, two restaurants, and an organic spa that specializes in treatments plucked from the sea.

What it isn't

Poorly serviced. The inn is a member of the illustrious Relais & Châteaux. Translation? You’re sure to have one of the best stays of your life.

What we think

Legendary screen siren-turned-actual-princess of Monaco Grace Kelly loved staying at Castle Hill Inn, so much so that they named a pocket of beach after her here. No surprise. Castle Hill Inn is cinematic, and has been for more than a century. We love Harbor House (the cottage where Ms. Kelly stayed) but even the “starting” room category here is worthy of the castle moniker. In the main structure—Agassiz Mansion—in the Rose Room, you’ll have a fireplace, sumptuous rugs underfoot, and intricate Edwardian era woodwork that looks like it appeared in a scene from HBO’s Gilded Age.

You're here because

Amenities are luxe and ultra pampering, including fast complimentary wifi, plush robes and slippers, flatscreen TVs with cable, twice daily housekeeping service and herbal toiletries made by local company Farmaesthetics.

The Moment

Settled into your adirondack chair on their sprawling lawn, watching sailboats glide along the harbor, you feel even more pampered than a Gilded Age royal…especially when a waiter brings you a note-perfect Newport Spritz cocktail.

Restaurants & Bars

The Lawn- Newport al fresco dining

The Dining Room- Traditional New England dining

Location

A clifftop peninsula point, Rams Head, in Newport Proper, a quick stroll from Castle Hill Lighthouse and zippy 12 minute drive from The Breakers, built circa 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II as a summer “cottage.”