Experience a Real Hobbit House Without a Passport
It takes just one visit to New England to surrender to the charm and way of life there. At least, that’s all it took for me.
Tucked away near the southern coast of Rhode Island is a picturesque place where rolling hills meet the Pawcatuck River. Driving through the entrance of The Preserve Sporting Club and Resort, I was met with gorgeous greenery and hydrangeas blooming on every corner. Onsite there are ponds for fishing, pools for swimming, trails to be hiked, clay shooting, an 18-hole golf course, an equestrian center for horse lovers, and an esteemed spa to relax in.
Located in Richmond, Rhode Island, the resort is a quick 30-minute drive from Providence or Newport, two hours from Boston, and a little over three hours from Manhattan, making it a fantastic weekend getaway for my Northeastern friends. Or, if you’re hopping on a flight, I assure you a stay here is well worth the trip. A member of Preferred Hotels, The Preserve is a luxury resort and residential community with townhomes, single-family homes, tiny houses, condos, and even Hobbit Houses... but more on that later.
I had the opportunity to visit the outdoor oasis in late July and despite all the activity, I don’t know if I’ve ever felt so relaxed on a weekend trip. I saw other guests checking in and dined next to them at the restaurant on site, but I never felt crowded or like I was just another face in the crowd of summer guests. I checked in on a Friday afternoon and spent my weekend sipping on white wine, indulging in some of the finest and freshest food the area has to offer, venturing to the horse stables, afternoon swims, and relaxing with one of the best massages I’ve ever had.
A passion project for owner Paul Mihailides, The Preserve was built to do just what the name suggests, preserve the land and outdoor activities that aren't as easy to come by just anywhere. With more than 3,000 acres of land, Mr. M, as much of the staff lovingly calls him, dreamed of opening a club where families and couples could get away from life's distractions and enter a luxurious escape in the outdoors.
The Preserve is a place where regal and relaxed overlap. Checking into The Preserve felt as if I was checking out of reality. Below, you'll find a few of my recommendations on where to stay, where to dine, and some of the unique activities that make for the perfect stay.
Stay a While at Hilltop Lodge
Check in to the Hilltop Lodge, a popular place to stay for guests popping in for a few days. But it's important to note, Hilltop Lodge is adults only, so you can experience ultimate relaxation during your stay. This site is built more like a traditional hotel or lodge, but in true Preserve fashion, no exquisite detail is left behind. When I stepped inside one of the suites, I was blown away by the size. Most of the suites are fully furnished with all of the amenities, and are well over 1,000 square feet, giving you plenty of space.
Visit a Real Hobbit House
Imagine walking through a door and being transported to The Shire from the world of J.R.R. Tolkien. That's exactly what it feels like in this immersive experience. The Maker’s Mark Hobbit Houses offer a one-of-a-kind evening with an upscale dining menu and bourbon pairing. From the moment you walk through the tiny door. the sound of the music, the sight of the roaring fire, and smell of a delicious meal will carry you straight to Hobbiton. As if they aren't already unique enough, each house is truly built into and around the nature of The Preserve. The stone floors and walls feel rustic while the burning fire and candlelit dinner are warm and inviting. Though small, don't let the size of the homes fool you. Some of the houses can fit up 10 people, making them ideal for a date night, or the perfect dinner party with your closest friends. And the best part is? You don't have to have a passport to New Zealand to experience a little bit Middle Earth.
Dining at The Hobbit House
Once you've booked your reservation at one of three Hobbit Houses on site, prepare for an incredibly immersive dining experience. Enjoy a four-course meal and bourbon pairing while your private chef walks you through each dish and explains what makes them all so special. From the charcuterie board to the braised short ribs and the delectable cheesecake pops, everything is cooked and crafted to perfection. After you've finished up, enjoy the rest of the evening with s'mores and bourbon under the night sky, nestled by a cozy fire.
Escape With Your Favorite Activities
While you can easily spend your whole time relaxing by the pool, if that's all you did, you'd be selling yourself, and The Preserve, short. With nearly 4,000 acres of land, there's something to do at practically every hour of the day. With golf, fishing, clay shooting, a rock wall, biking and hiking trails, tennis courts and more, it almost feels as if you're at a luxury camp, reliving some of your favorite childhood activities, or trying new ones you never got to experience in your younger years.
Visit The Equestrian Stables
While there are so many activities to choose from, I started out at the Equestrian Stables. The stables are gorgeous, lined with different stalls and horses poking their heads out to say hello. I enjoyed a short ride around the equestrian area, but there are so many options from guided trail rides to horseback riding lessons, and even carriage rides.
Enjoy a Picnic Along the Stables
I love a picnic in the grass on a beautiful day, but this one takes the cake. At The Preserve, you can have the most luxurious picnic organized and set up for you. Pick a spot by the stables, or anywhere you'd like along the property. Sipping on champagne and nibbling on charcuterie as you watch the horses stroll by is literally the dreamiest way to spend an afternoon if you ask me.
Wine & Dine at Double Barrel Steak
Whether you're looking for a light bite or a gourmet meal, you can find either at Double Barrel Steak. The restaurant on site has an expansive menu featuring delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. I had the Makers Mark boneless short ribs with creamy wild mushroom cavatelli (pictured here) and am still dreaming about it to this day. The leather booths, mood lighting, and gorgeous views of the property offer a cozy night in that still feels elevated and luxurious.
Stay in a Spacious Townhome
During my visit, I got to stay in one of the Townhomes on The Green. Staying here made it feel as if I was in my own quaint New England neighborhood. Just like all of the other spots on site, the two-story cottages offer a spacious kitchen and living space already complete with amenities and appliances. The back door opens to a patio overlooking a lush greenspace and tennis courts. The bedrooms upstairs both had plenty of closet space, full bathrooms, and a plush bed that I could have stayed in way longer than necessary. The master bedroom even has a deck overlooking the same gorgeous greenspace as downstairs. The townhomes are a perfect spot for families or group trips.
Enjoy Breakfast in Bed, or the Backyard
Out of everything you try while at The Preserve, you must try the Griddled Blueberry Muffin. The breakfast menu at Double Barrel Steak has an array of amazing options like stacks of pancakes and three-egg omelets. I went with something a little lighter and tried the Greek Yogurt Parfait and the Griddled Blueberry muffin. I have to say, it was the most delectable muffin I've ever eaten. How can something so simple taste so good? While you do have the luxury of a fully functional kitchen at your fingertips while staying on the property, I opted for getting breakfast sent to my room one morning and enjoyed it on the patio outside with a delicious cup of coffee — my favorite way to start the day!
Unwind at The OH! Spa
I'm very fortunate to have visited quite a few spas in my day, but the massage I experienced at OH! Spa is the best I've ever had. The masseuse was so knowledgeable and attentive to what I asked for. The whole spa area is quaint, quiet, and incredibly relaxing. You can book a 1-hour visit, or an all-day experience to enjoy all the different amenities like added treatments, facials, hydrotherapy, a steam room, sauna, and more.
Test Your Skills at the Clay Shooting Course
If you're interested in learning how to shoot in a safe environment from some of the pros, The Preserve is going to offer you the very best experience. While the property is home to one of the largest indoor firing ranges in the country, it also has a 19-station clay shooting course that takes you all around the property. Each shooting station is either open-air or covered, and provides 6 clay throwers that are regularly moved around so the course is always changing and evolving. It's one of the most popular activities on the property, making it the perfect place for shooting sports enthusiasts.
Hit The Links
Go for a round of golf on the award-winning, championship Mountain Course. Designed by award-winning golf architect Robert McNeil, this course is a bit more rugged than others you may have played. Whether you choose to play 9 holes or all 18, this course is a great test for all level of players. Just be on the lookout for deer and other animals who might be roaming while you're trying for a Par 3.
Drift Down River
A great way to see more of Rhode Island is to hop on a kayak, canoe, or paddle board and head down to the nearby river. A fantastic guide from The Preserve will lead the way and point out some of the unique wildlife along the way. It's a relaxing and fun way to spend the day.
Go Off-Roading on a Bentley Extraordinary Experience
With more than 3,000 acres to explore, hop in a Bentley Bentayga and go off-roading to see far beyond what you can from your room. An instructor will assist you as you race up and down hills, splash through puddles of water, and trek through the trails specifically designed for this Bentley course.
Tuck Away in a Tiny Home
The large property has an array of places to stay. Some of the most popular include the Tiny Homes. Though small, they don't lack any bit of luxury. Sitting atop Blueberry Hill are a number of quaint cottages to retreat to that have gorgeous views and plenty of amenities for a weekend of glamping.
Enjoy Your Stay
No matter what you get into while visiting The Preserve, watch as the lush countryside of Rhode Island rolls your worries away. To learn more and book your own stay, visit thepreserveri.com, and be sure to tell them you're friends of Country Living.
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