AT YOUR SERVICE

Gerard, our butler during our two-night stay at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, met us at the Tall Tales Guesthouse at the Old Saybrook, Conn. property with a smile, welcome drink, and an assurance that it is literally his job to make sure that our mini-vacation would be all that we wanted it to be. This new service from the charming New England property two hours from New York City is offered to those staying at either of its two intimate guesthouses: the six-room Tall Tales and the eight-room Three Stories. They both stand proudly across the street from the 82-room Main Inn.

The four-season resort that sits where the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River meet is the ideal destination for travelers seeking a fall getaway to enjoy all that comes with the season. For those staying in the guesthouses, your butler can create personalized itineraries, whether that may be chauffeured foliage tours along the Connecticut River, securing reservations for vineyard tastings and harvest festivals, or planning private hiking excursions. Complimentary shuttle service to Main Street is also available. (See sidebar for more on Fall happenings and attractions in and around Old Saybrook.)

Be Our Guest The enjoyment of a guesthouse stay begins with the guesthouse itself. Though my husband and I were traveling on our own, we easily could see how Tall Tales (or Three Stories) would have worked ideally for an extended family and friends’ getaway. The house has an open-floor dining and living space plus kitchen on the first floor, and a lovely front deck. The second floor is where we found ourselves both nights for a game of foosball or pool. It also has a bocce court in the backyard.

But it is the guestrooms themselves that prove the center of relaxation. Our third-floor corner room oozed with New England charm and boasted not only a Juliet balcony facing the water, but a private terrace with two chairs and a small table. It featured a seating area in front of a fireplace, which Gerard was sure to emphasize as a big plus during the cool nights of fall and winter. The large bathroom with separate soaking tub and shower added to the comfortable feel.

Among the guest room amenities that come with Butler Service are private check-in and check-out and packing and unpacking assistance. There are also complimentary snacks, water, minibar refreshments, and a gift of a Saybrook Point tote bag. Gerard emailed us prior to our arrival, and we were able to add any special requests to the minibar. 

Each morning began with our choice of beverage for in-room delivery. Turndown service includes bedside chocolates, but the small chocolate cake made by the resident pastry chef that welcomed us to our room our first night was among one of the best treats we have ever tasted.  

Spa and Wellness Time
The relaxation theme continues at Saybrook Point’s full-service spa in the Main Inn and I took full-advantage of its offerings with an 80-minute massage. The Spa offers a choice of massages, facials, and body treatments. For fall, it is featuring the Circadia Pumpkin Facial. The Main Inn is also where you’ll find an indoor hot tub and saltwater heated indoor and outdoor pools open year-round and overlooking the marina. Guests can also take advantage of the fitness center and fitness classes. 

Seasonal Dining
Saybrook’s restaurant menus change with the season featuring comforting, coastal-inspired dishes. Fall flavors such as roasted root vegetables, fresh autumn seafood, and classics are made with sustainable, regional ingredients. Fresh Salt is its main restaurant boasting water views and offering three meals plus Sunday Brunch. Lunch and dinner feature a mix of seafood and meat offerings. Desserts are a must—including homemade gelato and brownie and mocha chocolate cake.

The on-site Choo Choo Lounge is a casual option for small plates or dinner and an extensive bar menu in a lovely pub-like atmosphere. Live music and trivia tournaments are available on select nights, adding to the fun.  

Your butler can also not only recommend one of the local restaurants in town for any meal, but provide shuttle service with a smile there and back.

Fall Activities Around Old Saybrook
Main Street Old Saybrook is a short complimentary shuttle drive from the Saybrook Point Resort and Marina. Boutique stores, cafes, and restaurants line the street. It is also home to the Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and Museum. Learn more about Hepburn, who was an Old Saybrook resident, or enjoy one of its fall musical events or lectures. Seasonal activities include the nearby Essex Steam Train for scenic foliage rides, cruises on the Connecticut River from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, fall picnic with leaf peeping and panoramic views at Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, and pick-your-own apples and pumpkins at Bishop’s Orchards in Guilford. The hotel also offers trail maps for local hikes available at the front desk or from your butler.

To learn more, or to book your stay, please visit saybrook.com