"The atmosphere is immediately relaxing" at this converted dairy farm, eight miles from Chapel Hill, where "rural charm is combined with luxury finishes." Perfect-scoring English-country rooms are individually designed with antiques and have views of pastures or manicured gardens, "they're distinctive and rich, but not over-the-top." Turndown service includes port and truffles made by the hotel's chocolatier. House-cured bacon with marinated asparagus is one of the "beautifully prepared and presented dishes" at the restaurant. In March 2010, the outdoor beer garden, Roost, set under giant oak trees, opened. "Staff are second to none."
(33 rooms)
Also featured on the: Gold List for 2005, Gold List for 2006, Gold List for 2008, Gold List for 2010, Gold List for 2011