Blue Belle Inn B&B      
PO Box 205, Saint Ansgar, IA 50472-0205, USA    
(877) 713-3113, (641) 713-3113
  • Free Night Participating Inn
 
 

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$70
- $375


Book a Room $70 - $375

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5 based on 19 reviews
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Description

Circa 1896. This home was purchased from a Knoxville, Tenn., mail-order house. It's difficult to believe that stunning features, such as a tin ceiling, stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork and pocket doors could have come via the mail, but these original items are still here for guests to admire. Rooms are named after books special to the innkeeper. Four of the rooms include a whirlpool tub for two, and the Never Neverland room has a clawfoot tub. Other rooms offer a skylight, fireplace or perhaps a white iron bed. During the Christmas season, every room has its own decorated tree. The innkeeper hosts a variety of themed luncheons, dinners and events, such as the April in Paris cooking workshop, Mother's Day brunches, the "Some Enchanted Evening" dinner, Murder Mysteries, Ladies nights, Writer's Retreats, quilting seminars and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

For more information visit the website.

Rates

$70 to $375

Off Season: $45 to $200

Payment Types Accepted Include Personal Checks, Discover, Travelers Checks, Visa, American Express, Master Card and Cash.

    • Breakfast
    • Snacks/Refreshments

Amenities

This property has 11 total guest accommodations, 8 with private bath, 2 with fireplaces, 3 with whirlpools, 5 total suites, including 2 two-bedroom suites and 1 three-bedroom suite, 1 cottage, 1 guest house and 2 conference rooms. The types of beds available include Twin, Queen, King and Double.

  • Air Conditioning
  • Bath Amenities
  • Bathrobes
  • Cable TV
  • Coffeemaker
  • Computers
  • Copy Machine
  • Fax
  • Fireplace
  • Handicap Access
  • Iron/Ironing Board
  • Refrigerator
  • Television
  • Wireless Internet Access

Business Traveler Amenities

  • Wireless Internet Access
  • Television
  • Iron/Ironing Board
  • Internet Access
  • Hair Dryer
  • Gym Nearby
  • Flexible Check in/out Times
  • Flexible Cancellation
  • FAX On-site
  • Desk
  • Daily Newspapers

Events Hosted

    • Meetings
    • Romantic Getaways
    • Family Reunions
    • Seminars
    • Weddings
    • Handicappped Guests
    • Murder Mysteries
    • Cooking Seminars
    • Ladies Nights
    • Wine Tastings
    • Live Concerts
    • Scrapbooking Retreats
    • Quilting Retreats

Foreign Languages Spoken

German

Spa Services

Off-Site Spa Services Available

Nearby Recommended Spas

Advance Spa - Sheryl Krebsbach
(641)713-2168
www.advancespa.com
sheryl@advancespa.com

Inns Of Interest

    • Unusual Architecture
    • Gardens

Romantic Interest

The decor and ambiance are very romantic. Private whirlpools, fireplaces and cozy loveseats for snuggling. Quiet and private.

Innkeepers Association Memberships

Iowa Bed and Breakfast Guild (IBBG), Iowa Bed and Breakfast Innkeepers's Association (IBBIA), AAA

Describe Garden and Grounds

Extensive perrenial and herb gardens, stone pathways, cottage garden, rock and waterlily pond, beautiful maple and fir trees, flowering trees in the spring, window boxes, and a front porch swing. Anne's House of Dreams has a shaded deck and balcony.

Reservation/Cancellation Policies:

Cancellation

Deposit of 1/2 down will be forfeited unless room is rerented. If less than 1 week prior, payment in full is expected if not rerented. If rerented, a credit on account less $10 is carried forward to next visit. No penalties for weather crisis.

Smoking

Smoke Free Property.


Other Activities

    • Skiing Cross Country
    • Shopping (Local Crafts)
    • Parks
    • Museums
    • Live Theater
    • Hiking
    • Golf
    • Fishing
    • Canoeing/Kayaking
    • Bicycling
    • Antiquing
    • Wineries
    • Water Sports
    • Hunting
    • Music Man Square
    • Hormel Spam Museum
    • Clear Lake

Historic Interest

Historic sites nearby:

Indian fort (4 miles), heritage museum (1 mile)

Other Awards:

Innkeeper of the Year Award 2008 from Iowa Lodging Association and Iowa Bed and Breakfast Guild

Recommended Restaurant(s)

The Blue Belle Inn Tea House.

Get a Free Night at this inn

The dates this property will honor the certificate are Nov. 1-April 30, Tuesday-Friday nights only. Holidays and Dec. 26-31 excluded. Subject to availability..

- One Night Free: This property is featured as participating in the iLoveinns.com Buy-One-Night-Get-One-Night-Free program.


Chicken Carbonnara

My friend Jeanie Baratono and I came up with this recipe after enjoying pasta carbonnara at a favorite restaurant in Colorado Springs. Our guests at the Inn love it!


Blackberry Brandied Chicken

This is a favorite in the summertime when we have fresh raspberries and blackberries, but it is very pretty at Christmastime and Valentine\'s Day served with frozen berries as well.


Seasoned Pork And Parmesan Stuffed Pumpkins

We\'ve stuffed hundreds of locally grown, miniature, Baby Bear pumpkins in the 16 years the Blue Belle Inn has been open. They\'re a favorite with our customers and absolutely delicious.


Heaven And Earth Soup

I created this recipe after living in Germany for 3 years. It's based on the German tradition of Himmel und Erde or Heaven and Earth because it's made with apples from the heavens and onions from the earth. Both are grown along the Cedar River in Iowa.


Beef Burgundy

This is one of my favorites! If you have leftovers, put plenty of gravy & some of the beef in a crock, heat, & top with homemade baking powder biscuits flavored with fresh chives and a little bacon to make Beef Burgundy Cobbler with Bacon Chive Biscuits.


Blueberry French Cream Pie

You can make this pie with Cherry Pie Filling if you prefer. Either way, it's delicious!


Sweet Pie Crust (no-roll)

This is a wonderful, no-roll pie crust. Just pat it in the pan. One recipe makes 2 pies. We always bake two crusts, use one, and save the other for next time. It's great with fresh strawberry or peach pie, or Blueberry French Cream Pie.


Potato Cheese Soup

This soup can be adapted in a variety of ways. Omit toppings & add steamed broccoli florets to make Broccoli Cheese Soup. Omit toppings & add cubed ham & peas to make a wonderful Ham and Cheese Soup. This soup is lovely & is almost impossible to curdle.


Roasted Pork And Swiss Cheese Filled Cannelloni With Red & White Sauces


Mucky Mouth Pie

An English woman once made a pie to serve at tea. While the pie cooled, someone ate several pieces. When she asked her children who had eaten the pie, no one confessed. Wisely, she looked at each one - the one with the mucky mouth was guilty, of course.



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Warm and Welcoming

We just came home from our stay at the Blue Belle Inn. This was our first time at a B&B and will surely not be our last. The Blue Belle was a relaxing enjoyable escape to a time gone bye. We were fortunate to stay 2 nights in Plum Creek room. The hosts were very warm and welcoming. We were not able to meet the owner Sherrie, but her staff were amazing. I am terrible with names so don't remember the name of the young lady that was there for most of our stay. She made our stay awesome. We will be back again!!!!
Tamara V
5/1/2012

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

A Delightful Discovery

The Blue Belle Inn was a delightful discovery! On our trip thru St. Ansgar we just happened upon this beautiful, charming Bed & Breakfast. We experienced a quiet, relaxing evening and enjoyed a delicious breakfast in the morning. Thank you, Sherrie, for a wonderful stay!
Helen H
4/1/2012

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Phenomenal!

I love staying at the Blue Belle. The rooms are warm and inviting and there are so many treasures to admire. There is nothing like nestling under a beautiful quilt after soaking in a relaxing jacuzzi tub. Breakfast is always wonderful and to stroll down the St Ansgar streets is rejuvenating. If you don't have time to spend the night, I would suggest stopping in for dinner. (You don't have to stay to dine here.) The food, entertainment and service is always phenomenal! My personal favorite is the stuffed pumpkins and my husband would say the French Steak with red potatoes. The menu may change, but the experience is consistently extraordinary!
Deb S
12/1/2011

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Pampered and Awakened

Do yourself a favor and spend some time at the Blue Belle Inn B&B and Tea House. You'll experience genius as ALL your senses are pampered and awakened. Evening meal? Gourmet breakfast? Private hot tub? Luxury accommodations? We loved it all and drove away refreshed and willing to face the rat race. Kudos to Sherrie and the crew. Ralph and Ricky
Ralph P
11/1/2011

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

romance at the front door

we enjoyed our stay very much we will never forget it,the two person jacuzzi was a blast early evening and morning.the breakfast was plain and small,i had always heard the breakfast was an eye opener,this was not some fruit,a pastry from the freezer,and juice,but maybe it had something to do with the owner being out of town.
paul olson
austin, MN
3/12/2009

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Best Ever Anniversary

My husband and I stayed a few weekends ago for our 24 anniversary. We were the only guests spending the night at the inn Friday and Saturday and the solitude was fantastic! Heaven to Betsy was a beautiful place to relax and enjoy being together and St. Ansgar was the perfect small town to visit, explore.
Terri G
Austin, MN
12/11/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Iowa's Best Kept Romantic Secret

I don't know why this wonderful B & B isn't full every night - when we were there, on a recent Friday night, we were the only ones staying at the Blue Belle Inn. Rooms, dining cuisine, and service are all outstanding. The value would be a deal at twice the price.
Mark D.
Thompson, IA
12/5/2008

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
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InnSide Tip - Romantic sightseeing
We say two large bald eagles on the Cedar River which passes nearby the Blue Belle Inn.
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic

My husband and I stayed one evening. After 13 years of marriage, it was more romantic than our honeymoon. I still think about how wonderful it was and can't wait to stay there again.
Amy Roberts
Austin, MN
11/17/2008

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Food & Wine

I have the pleasure of doing wine seminars twice a year at the Belle, when they do a cooking school and wine seminar. Several times I have stayed after the event in one of their rooms. The rooms were great and the breakfast the next morning was very fresh and the help very nice. Bruce Long Mason City Iowa.
Bruce Long
Mason City, IA
11/15/2008

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Special Night

I have eaten great meals at the Blue Belle Inn and even attended a wedding there, so I always wanted to stay in one of their exquisitely decorated rooms. This past weekend, I finally got my wish and had a very special experience in a wonderfully romantic setting. I only wish the time could have been extended, as it was similar to being in a fairy tale.
Janet Oman
Austin, MN
11/4/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

romantic annivsary

we went for our anniversary supper it was wonderful the meal was great we were in our own little world our waiter as if we would like coffee with desert it was a nice end to a great evening. then she came back and asked if we would like to take coffee to our room i said oh we are not staying we were their to celebrate our wedding anniversary then my husband confessed to have rented a room and that he had brought our luggage and wine the day before while i was at work he didn't want me to miss anything at home so i had a all new bathroom bag complete and new outfit and all the things a women need sleeping over what a wonderful romantic time we were married in 1971 about a month after we graduation we were high school sweet hearts Rose tamke
rose tamke
austin,
11/4/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic Weekend

Two weeks ago, my husband and I had a wonderful weekend at the Blue Belle Inn. We were very impressed with the menu and everything we ordered was delicious. It was interesting to hear the special story about the origin of one of the wonderful desserts. However, the best story was a romantic tale of finding true love. Each and every room is beautifully decorated and unique. We can't wait to go back for another visit so we can stay in another one of the rooms. We felt so comfortable at the Blue Belle Inn I hated to leave.
Annette Ashbach
Osage, IA
11/3/2008

My ratings for this property      
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
InnSide Tip - Local shops
There are some wonderful shops in town, located in unique houses. Also a quilt shop!
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic hideaway

Although I wasn't staying there for a romantic getaway, my almost-immediate reaction was -- besides I'm bringing my husband back -- it would be really fun to be snowbound here! Not only that feeling of warmth and coziness, but all those great-looking menus, the fondue feast, the collection of movies that would last for a long, long time plus games to play in the attic room with its own popcorn and tea and coffee. Breakfasts were great, all home-made yummies. It's obvious Sherrie is a great cook. How nice it would be share one of those jacuzzis, too. We'll be back!
Linda Therkelsen
Minneapolis, MN
11/3/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic

My husband and I have stayed at the Blue Belle Inn twice, once to celebrate our first anniversary and again to celebrate a birthday. The staff is friendly and helpful as well as the town of Saint Ansgar. The fondue feast is fun and the breakfasts, suppers and desserts we have tried have all been delicious. It has so many nooks to hide away in (porch swing, piano bar, couch in the parlor, table upstairs, room, jacuzzi tub for 2) and enjoy spending time with the one you love. Our goal is to stay in every room at least once and read the book(s) that go along with the theme of each room.
Elizabeth Neely
Waterloo, IA
11/1/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic

We have stayed at the Blue Belle Inn B & B several times and have nothing but a wonderful experience. The rooms are very spacious and clean and make for a perfect romantic get away. The food is excellent and most delicious. We especially like to stay and have a romantic evening when they have a Murder Mystery. These are most enjoyable and make for an exciting evening of fun and relaxation. The food is superb and their fondue is fabulous. We will always go back again and again. Georgia - MN
GEORGIA S
AUSTIN,
11/1/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
     Cleanliness
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic Victorian Christmas

Our first stay was just before Christmas. A few days away to relax, connect and of course shop. The first evening we enjoyed a wonderful gourmet dinner with a musical accompaniment. The second evening after a long day of shopping we simply went to our room, "Heaven to Betsy" and were greeted with a Christmas tree by the fireplace. We laid on the bed and listened to the Christmas carolers who serenaded us for more than an hour. We have spent many romantic, restful evenings, meals and weekends at this B&B. Of the many Inns we have visited, this by far is our favorite. Not only is the Inn special, but this quaint little town has many little specialty shops with grand treasures.
Barb Benson
Forest City, IA
10/31/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
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     Condition
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     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic

We have stayed at the Blue Belle many times and have never been disappointed. It is very quiet and perfect for a romantic weekend get a way. The rooms are spacious and many have whirpool tubs and fireplaces. The setting is just beautiful. We have stayed in the winter and early summer months. Highly reccomend it.
Becky Dotta
Visalia, CA
10/30/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Romantic Retreat

Need a romantic getaway? This lovely Victorian in a small town setting is the place to go. Plenty to do but with few distractions, this is a wonderful place to concentrate on that special person in your life. Each room is a fantasy unto itself and most have hot tub jacuzzi s to heighten the experience. You won't need to make your own magic because it envelopes you the moment you walk through the front door. From cozy rooms to 5-star food you'll feel the romance. Where would we go for a romantic getaway? It would have to be the Blue Belle Inn B&B.
Ralph P.
Ogden, UT
10/30/2008

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
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BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

Quaint but luxurius

Feels like you're in a fairyland when getting ready for bed. In the morning, you feel like a king or queen when you get waited on and served breakfast. It is so sureal. The entire place from drapes to pictures, rugs to woodwork, vibrant colors to pastels make this B&B just beautiful to see. Not to forget mentioning the tasteful breakfast and gorgeous table settings and exquisite dining rooms with lace, greenery and lights. Will definitely go back and refer other people there.
Lisa Brown
Champlin, MN

My ratings for this property      
     Location
     Comfort
     Condition
     Cleanliness
     Service
BOTTOM LINE: I would stay here again.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes (0 votes)
This review is the subjective opinion of an iLoveInns.com user and not of iLoveInns.com or American Historic Inns, Inc.

At A Glance

19 Review(s)
100% would stay again
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Other Ratings: "3 AAA Diamonds, "iLoveInns Guests

Publicity and Press Reviews

Minneapolis Star Tribune, Post-Bulletin, Midwest Living, Country, AAA Home & Away, Des Moines Register, Country Home, Iowan Magazine, American Patchwork and Quilting, New York Times, HGTV Restore America, KTTC - Rochester, MN.


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