News from Miss Molly's B&B in Chincoteague, VA

Rediscover Love on Chincoteague Island

January 7th, 2012 by Gail

Rediscover each other this February, on Chincoteague Island.

Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year. Instead of trying to woo your sweetheart after work, consider letting the romance linger over a few days. Spend those days at our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast, Miss Molly’s Inn.

A romantic getaway can rekindle passion for couples who have been together more than 10, 20, and 30 years. It can reinvigorate romance between exhausted parents. New couples and newlyweds hardly need encouragement, but benefit from romantic getaways as well.

Parents: find someone to watch your lovely children and sneak away to Chincoteague Island. Spend a couple of nights thinking about the two of you, and just the two of you. Go to bed when you want to go to bed, and stay in bed as long as you like. Stroll hand in hand on the beaches of Assateague Island, stopping when you want to stop. Climb to the top of the Assateague Lighthouse and admire the view in silence. Linger over breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s important to remind one another how much you love each other. It’s important to take some time for yourselves.

Empty nesters: when was the last time you went away with romance in your heart? We know, it’s just the two of you at home, and you don’t need to travel to find romance. But when was the last time you stepped out of your routine? When was the last time you spent hours talking together, over a bottle of wine? When was the last time you sat together on the beach, listening to the surf lap against the sand?

A romantic retreat in our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast encourages couples to see the best in one another. Fall in love all over again. Come to Chincoteague this February.

Ask about our specials:

Romantic Weekend: February 10, 11, 12, get three nights for the price of two, a bottle of champagne, and truffles.
Romance Lingers: February 17, 18, 19, 10% off three nights, with a late Sunday brunch and mimosas.
Spring Special: all spring, experience three nights of romance for the price of two.

Tags: Assateague Island, Assateague Lighthouse, Chincoteague Island, lodging special, romantic getaways, Spring Special, Virginia beaches, Virginia Bed and Breakfast
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Resolve to Travel to Chincoteague Island

December 30th, 2011 by Gail

The arrival of the new year inspires many of us to review our lives. It is a concrete marker of the passage of time, and as such, it sparks reflection. We think about the past year, about what we wanted to do and what we did. Our thoughts then shift to the coming year.

Travel should always be included in plans for the new year. We may not all be able to leave the country for lengthy vacations in exotic locations, but we can all escape for a weekend or two at some point. When you do, make it special.

Chincoteague Island: a relaxing retreat close DC, Annapolis, Baltimore, and Norfolk.

Our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast is well situated for a weekend getaway. We are about 2 hours from Norfolk, Virginia, 3 hours from Annapolis, Maryland, and 3.5 hours from both Baltimore and Washington D.C. Once you escape city traffic, the drive is relaxing and beautiful.

Miss Molly’s Inn, our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast, is located in the heart of the historic village; the setting is quite unlike the large metropolitan areas few hours away. Once settled, you need not use your car again. Use the inn’s bicycles to explore our island and neighboring Assateague Island, where the famous wild ponies live. Ride to walking trails and beaches, or ride simply for the joy of feeling the breeze on your cheeks.

Many of our guests decide to indulge in the real English Afternoon Tea offered at Miss Molly’s. Think homemade scones dripping with jam and cream, strawberries and cream. There is nothing quite like an English Tea; the simple act of sitting down in the middle of the afternoon to delight in food and drink and good company is extraordinary in itself.

Folks who still have room for dinner will find a number of excellent restaurants within pedaling distance: Etta’s Channel Side Restaurant, AJ’s on the Creek, Steamers – All You Can Eat, The Village Restaurant, and more.

Chincoteague Island is close enough to Norfolk, D.C, Annapolis, and Baltimore to visit often. Yet it is hard to imagine a place that feels more different than these big cities. The pace of life on Chincoteague is slow and relaxing. It invites leisurely walks on the beach, and long hours with a good book by the fire.

The time for New Year’s resolutions has come. Resolve to travel to our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast in 2012. Make your plans now, and take advantage of our Spring Special: stay three nights for the price of two, or four nights for the price of three (and so on). When you look back on the year on December 31, 2012, you’ll be so pleased you did.

Happy New Year!

Tags: Annapolis, Baltimore, Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfasts, Chincoteague Island restaurants, English Afternoon Tea, Norfolk, Washington DC, weekend getaways, wild ponies of Assateague Island
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Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

December 9th, 2011 by Gail

Piping plover at Chincoteague National Wildlife (VA)

A Piping Plover at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is one the most unique environments on the East Coast. Laying claim to the southern tip of Assateague Island, it encompasses more than 14,000 acres of varied terrain: beach, sand dunes, maritime forest, and both freshwater and saltwater marshes. It is also just minutes from our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast.

Guests of Miss Molly’s Assateague Island Bed and Breakfast are welcome to use the inn’s bikes to explore Chincoteage National Wildlife Refuge, which is three miles away. Once at Chincoteague, bikers have several options. The Wildlife Loop circles 3 1/4 miles around an area with moist soils and abundant wildlife. Two trails branch off from the Wildlife Loop: Swan Cover Trail leads to the beach; Black Duck Trail leads to the Woodland Trail. The Woodland Trail itself meanders through the beautiful pine forest; and lucky hikers and bikers sometimes catch a glimpse of the Assateague Wild Ponies from the trail’s overlook.

In addition to the trails that are open to bikes, the refuge has a few pedestrian only trails. 7.5 miles of service roads are open to walkers, as is the Marsh Trail and the Lighthouse Trail. Assateague Lighthouse is open daily from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; the view from the top is spectacular.

Spring is a glorious time to visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Chincoteague is a paradise for bird-watchers during spring and fall migration periods. Barn Swallows show up each spring, along with Laughing Gulls, Eastern Kingbirds, and Semipalmated Plovers and Sand Pipers. Bring your binoculars, or ask to borrow a pair at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Miss Molly’s Chincotague Island Bed and Breakfast opens for the season on February 10, 2012. Be among the first of our guests next year. Ask about our Spring Special when booking your rooms: three nights for the price of two, four nights for the price of three, and so on.

Tags: Assateague Island, beaches, biking, bird watching, Chincoteague Island, Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfasts, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, hiking
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Spring is Special on Chincoteague Island

November 30th, 2011 by Gail

Rest and rejuvenate on Chincoteague Island, spring 2012.

It’s true. Spring is a glorious time on Chincoteague Island and Assateague Island. The coast of Virginia usually has mild winters, so spring comes early. Crocus, Hyacinth, and Glory-of-the-snow start popping up in February, which is when our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast opens for the season.

Spring is a natural time to travel. Most folks put their heads down and get to work after the busy holiday season. They think of little besides work and family commitments for some six weeks, and by the middle of February, they’re ready to look up and have some fun. They’re ready to breathe in some new air. There is no finer air than the air of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.

Spring 2012 Special at Miss Molly’s Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast.

To inspire much-needed travel, we’re offering a Spring Special at our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfasts. Stay three nights for the price of two nights, or four nights for the price of three.

Chincoteague and Assateague Islands encourage relaxation. The sound of the surf against the beach is never far from the ear. The breeze, be it chilly or mild, feels cleansing. The outdoors feels inviting; we find ourselves wanting to go for long beach walks and meandering bike rides. We want to hop in kayaks and explore coves and bays. We want to get as close as we can to the Wild Ponies of Assateague. We want to watch birds, throw frisbees, and sit on the porch with a blanket on our laps and a good book in our hands. That’s what a spring vacation is all about.

It’s not too early to plan a spring vacation. In fact, it’s the perfect time. Take advantage of our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast Spring Special, and make your plans today.

Tags: Chincoteague Island, Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfasts, Spring Special, wild ponies of Assateague Island, wild ponies of Chincoteague
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Start a New Thanksgiving Tradition on Chincoteague

November 9th, 2011 by Gail

Thanksgiving on Chincoteague Island means long walks on deserted beaches.

Thanksgiving on Chincoteague Island means fresh air, wild ponies, and scenic cruises.

Thanksgiving on Chincoteague Island means a quaint historic village with interesting shops.

In short, Thanksgiving on Chincoteague Island is worth consideration.

Instead of washing dishes on Thanksgiving, watch the sun set over Assateague Island.

Our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfasts are offering a Thanksgiving Package that includes three nights accommodation, gourmet breakfasts, and a buffet-style Thanksgiving meal for two (with a bottle of wine). Make it a romantic retreat with someone special, or make it a traditional family Thanksgiving without the hassle of hosting. There is plenty of room for friends and family at Miss Molly’s Inn and the Island Manor House.

Thanksgiving weekend is the traditional start of holiday shopping, and Chincoteague Island has a number of interesting shops and galleries to peruse. While away a few hours at Sundial Books, which has new, used, and collectible books, coffee, and comfy chairs. Pick up lovely prints of scenes from Chincoteague Island at Osprey Nest Art Gallery. Find hand-painted decoys for the duck hunter in your life at Chincoteague Traders, and pick up gifts inspired by wild ponies at the Chincoteague Pony Centre.

Of course, the favorite activity on Chincoteague is relaxing. Relax outside, while biking or walking along scenic trails. Relax at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast, while curled up with a book.

Leave stress behind this year. Spend Thanksgiving at Miss Molly’s Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast, and give thanks.

Thanksgiving Package at the Miss Molly’s Inn – $695.00:

3 nights accommodation
gourmet breakfast each morning
homemade snacks and nibbles available 24 hours a day
concierge service
bicycles to ride around the island
a dozen chocolate covered strawberries in your room on arrival
traditional Thanksgiving buffet dinner and bottle of wine for two, 4pm.

Call 1.800.221.5620 for more information or to book your room. Or visit the reservation page of our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast.

Tags: Chincoteague Bed and Breakfasts, Chincoteague Island, Thanksgiving dinner, Thanksgiving Special, Thanksgiving weekend
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An Ideal Thanksgiving

October 22nd, 2011 by Gail

Thanksgiving feasts are best tackled with a healthy appetite. The best way to create a healthy appetite is to engage in some sort of physical activity, preferably outside, in the fresh air. You’ll find plenty of fresh air, inviting open space, and a delicious feast this Thanksgiving at our Chincoteague Island Bed and Breakfast.

Photo of the Week - Great Egret at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Stimulate your appetite by watching others eat.

If you typically host Thanksgiving at your house, you know you spend the bulk of the day in the kitchen. You cook, you clean, you cook, you clean, you cook, and then you clean yourself up in time to welcome guests. You then offer drinks and appetizers and make sure that everyone is happy.

It can be difficult to relax even during the feast itself. A good host or hostess has one eye always assessing the needs of guests. Glasses must be replenished, dirty plates soundlessly swept away, pie cut and coffee brewed. It’s no wonder that Thanksgiving leftovers get such rave reviews: many people can’t really enjoy the meal on the day itself.

The only thing you’ll have to do if you spend Thanksgiving at Miss Molly’s Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast is walk across the street to our sister inn at 4 p.m. Guests of Miss Molly’s Inn are invited to share in the traditional Thanksgiving buffet we’ll serve at the 1848 Island Manor House. Help yourself to turkey, cranberry sauce, potatoes, sweet potatoes, greens, salad, and of course pie. Eat to your hearts’ content, then amble back to your room at Miss Molly’s and put up your feet.

Spend three days walking on the beaches of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. Scan the skies and water for migrating birds – there should still be plenty of them around during Thanksgiving weekend. Visit the Assateague National Seashore and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Admire the wild ponies. Bike around the two islands (we’ll supply the bikes). Get a start holiday shopping in the unique shops and art galleries close to your lodging.

The bottom line? We want you to enjoy yourself. That’s all.

Thanksgiving Package at the Island Manor – $695.00 Inclusive:

3 nights accommodation
gourmet breakfast each morning
homemade snacks and nibbles available 24 hrs a day
concierge service
bicycles to ride around the island
a Dozen chocolate covered strawberries in your room on arrival
traditional Thanksgiving buffet dinner and bottle of wine for two at 4 pm

Call 1.800.221.5620 for more information.

Tags: Assateague Island, Assateague National Seashore, Assateague wild ponies, Chincoteague Bed and Breakfasts, Chincoteague Island, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Thanksgiving Special
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October is Clergy Appreciation Month

October 7th, 2011 by Gail

Find serenity during the Clergy Retreat at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast.

Clergy are always there for their congregations. They counsel us when we’re troubled, visit us when we’re ill, and share in our joys. They baptize our children, join us in matrimony, and entrust the souls of our deceased to God. They serve their congregation with unfailing dedication.

This is challenging work, and it’s never ending.

Most of us don’t stop to think about the well being of our pastors, priests, and ministers. It’s their job to worry about us, not the other way around. We expect them to be there when we need them, and we don’t tend to think too much about their needs.

Yet clergy have their own lives, with families, trials, joys, and tribulations. Their work may be a calling, but it is work nonetheless and it can be as draining, frustrating, and saddening as any other job. Even more so. Clergy take on our burdens, so we don’t have to bear them alone.

They don’t ask us to care for them or worry about them, and they don’t expect us to do so. Yet once a year, we can.

October is Clergy Appreciation Month, and in honor of that, we’re offering a Clergy Special at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast.

The Clergy Retreat includes a three night stay at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast, on beautiful and relaxing Chincoteague Island. Each day will start with a gourmet breakfast, and snacks will be available throughout the day. Enjoy Afternoon Tea one day, a lunch of homemade soup and fresh artisan breads another day, and hot drinks one evening.

Take long walks on the beach and explore the island by bike – we supply the bikes and the beach gear. Relax by the fireplace in your room or in common areas. Spend time with your loved ones or cherished colleagues.

Spend a few days recharging before the busy holiday season. Rediscover serenity and peace. Let us minister to you.

The Clergy Retreat is $495 per couple for three nights. Bring your spouse or travel with fellow Clergy and commune with fellow believers. Take this time to take care of yourself.

Please call 1.800.221.5620 for more information.

Tags: Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast, Clergy Appreciation Month, Clergy Retreat, Clergy Special
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The Ultimate Book Club Experience

September 23rd, 2011 by Gail

Celebrate your love of literature and your friends with a Book Club Getaway at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast.

Books Clubs are all the rage these days, and with good reason. It’s fun to read, it’s fun to talk about what we’ve read, and it’s fun to get together with a group of friends. Why not go a step further? Instead of meeting to discuss a book for an hour or two, make a weekend out of it. Host your next Book Club at our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast.

Avid readers will recognize Chincoteague from Marguerite Henry’s book, Misty of Chincoteague. The wild ponies she refers to in her book still inhabit Assateague Island, which is close to our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast. Indeed, Marguerite Henry stayed here back in the 1940s while researching the area for her book. Two members of your Book Club could stay in her room.

Misty of Chincoteague is a book for children, and a quick read. Read it before you come with your book group, then enjoy an excursion to see the wild ponies of Assateague Island. Our innkeeper will happily make the arrangements for you.

A Book Club getaway is a great way to get to know your fellow readers. Most book groups stay on topic for some of their meetings, but can’t resist talking about other topics because everyone is so interesting. This is your chance to talk to your hearts’ content. Stay up late, linger over breakfast, go for long bike rides and walks on the beach, relax by a warm fire…. Celebrate your love of literature in a beautiful setting.

Our Book Club Special includes 2 nights at our Chincoteague Virginia Bed and Breakfast, gourmet breakfasts, and access to bikes and beach chairs. We’ll serve you Afternoon Tea one day, a tasty supper one evening, and ply you with snacks day and night. $495/couple. Please call 1.800.221.5620 for more details.

Tags: Assateague Island, Assateague wild ponies, Book Club Special, Chincoteague Bed and Breakfasts, Chincoteague Island, Marguerite Henry, Misty of Chincoteague
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Chincoteague Wild Ponies

September 9th, 2011 by Gail

By far the most famous inhabitants of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are the wild ponies that have lived here for generations. People come from all over the world to gaze upon them. It is a truly remarkable experience to see them grazing, frolicking, and running together. They are wild, and they are thriving.

Come see the Assateague wild ponies.

Many guests of our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfasts come here specifically to see the ponies. Many have read Misty of Chincoteague, and remember the touching story of Paul, Maureen, and Misty. They want to see the land and horses that inspired Marguerite Henry’s 1947 book.

Marguerite Henry stayed at Miss Molly’s Inn, our Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast, when she came here to meet the real Misty. Today, guests may stay in our Marguerite Henry room, where the author once slept. For fans of the book, this can be quite moving.

Boat and kayak tours are perhaps the best way to see the wild ponies; they enable visitors to get close to the ponies without disturbing them. Boat tours of the Chincoteague wild ponies run daily (many companies close for the winter some time between October and December).

We recommend the following companies for cruises around Assateage Island:

Feel free to ask our innkeeper about sightseeing cruises and wild pony tours. She will happily book the cruise for you.

Fall is a wonderful time to visit Assateague and Chincoteague. Summer crowds have dissipated, but the weather is still lovely. Please visit Miss Molly’s Chincoteague Bed and Breakfast to make a reservation.

Tags: Assateague wild ponies, Chincoteague Bed and Breakfasts, Marguerite Henry, Misty of Chincoteague, sightseeing cruises, wild pony cruises
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A Tour of the Roses

June 8th, 2011 by annagreene

Front Porch Beauty

As the tourist season kicks in, our roses have put on a performance that even Shakespeare would be proud of. With vibrant colors and dramatic quantities the view at our inn was breathtaking. I’m pretty sure they inspired the Catbird that sings every morning to sing a little louder (maybe in competition). The bees buzzed, and the morning dew all helped to create a symphony that can not be given justice by my few pictures, but I will attempt to give you a small taste of the glory in my tour.

As you approach the Inn you are greeted with an image of what looks like the Inn floating on a cloud of delicate pink roses. The illusion is created by thousands of blooms on the bushes planted at the base of the porch.
Once you stroll down the driveway you are flanked by brilliant pink roses on one side and my painter’s rose accented by blue russian sage on the other.

Just inside the property is a rose that screams “look at me!” while it bends gracefully under the weight of it’s blooms into the driveway from the picket fence.

This rose has the subtle color of a bride’s blush but is so large and has more layers than a bride’s petticoat that you simply can’t walk past without bending to take a closer look.
As you look up to continue, you see that you are surrounded on 3 sides by walls of peach roses.

Keep walking around the other side of the picket fence and you are face to face with a deep burgundy rose with it’s yellow center climbing up the archway.
Once inside the garden you are greeted by a surprise, the only yellow flower that’s been planted in our garden.