“There’s Gold in Them Thar Bed & Breakfasts!”

Almost 160 years after gold was discovered in California you can still explore the original site now called Marshall’s Gold Discovery Historic Park in Coloma as well as tour the Gold Bug Mine, a once rich mother lode, and learn all the fascinating history at the El Dorado County Museum. And yet there is so much more that commands your attention in this magnificent region of California.  It remains the land of adventure with white water rafting,  hot air ballooning and always a comfortable bed and breakfast with hospitable innkeepers welcoming you at the end of your busy day.

Try white water rafting down the South Fork of the American River, journey past abandoned mines as well as stunning scenery complete with wildlife and then stay the night in Georgetown at the newly renovated American River Inn. A noteworthy 126-ounce gold nugget was found in the Woodside Mine, whose lode still runs under the Inn. Relax in the outdoor hot tub surrounded by a colorful Victorian garden before retiring for the night to one of 13 rooms, many featuring fireplaces, canopies and balconies. The next morning enjoy a tasty gourmet breakfast as you gear up for another day of adventure. Perhaps you’ll take the complimentary mountain bikes Innkeepers Will and Maria Collin provide their guests and cycle around Historic Georgetown or ask for their best suggestions for local fishing holes.

The newest addition to the area bed and breakfasts is the gorgeous Bella Vista Bed and Breakfast in Placerville. Innkeeper/Owner Kathleen has the eye of an interior decorator and the handsomely appointed rooms and common areas reflect her attention to detail. It is an excellent location for a secluded romantic getaway perfect for honeymooners! In addition it offers a great spot to begin your adventure getaway. The innkeepers will even organize a Hot Air Balloon ride that starts right on the property. You can fly over tall trees, stunning scenery and if conditions allow, even “splash & dash” by floating a bit down the American River in the balloon!

 Down the road in the center of historic Placerville is the elegant Albert Shafsky House Bed & Breakfast. Rita and Stephanie have created romantic period rooms with a bit of whimsy plus every modern need, from individual A/C controls to wireless Internet access. After a comfortable night’s sleep head out to explore Placerville which is full of mining lore and of course the site of the famous Hangman’s Tree.  Take a ride through the spectacular countryside and visit some of the over 50 wineries in the Sierra Foothills, many offering wine tasting as well as scenic spots for your picnic.

Be welcomed by Scottish hospitality at the Glen Morey House built in 1859 on a hill high above the town of Placerville. Here you will enjoy your choice of three Scottish-sounding rooms, Edinburgh, St. Andrews and Inverness. The décor is plush and romantic with marble fireplaces, Scottish antiques and spacious private bathrooms. Don’t forget to travel the road from Placerville to Camino to the renowned Apple Hill area where, especially in the fall, you can savor not only freshly picked apples, but all those crisp ciders, decadent fritters and sweet apple wines that are made from this seasonal crop.

Another gem in Placerville is the Blair Sugar Pine Bed and Breakfast where you step back in time with original oak flooring, clawfoot bathtubs and trundle bed sitting areas all complimented by luxurious bathrobes and a basket of amenities. From the B&B you are walking distance to the Historic Main Street where you can dine, go antiquing or browse in the numerous shops. Innkeepers William and Kay provide a tin of chocolates upon your arrival and a wealth of information to ensure you get to see and do everything you want during your stay.

Make your plans now to enjoy this land of gold with its exciting adventures and relaxing overnights. By traveling to this area you will learn what caused the mass movement to California and why it continues. You can stay in bed and breakfasts rich with the history of early California yet enjoy all the amenities a 21st century traveler needs.   History, adventure and romance all await your visit. Plan your own Gold Rush trip by going to www.iloveinns.com  and discover for yourself why the El Dorado region continues to attract visitors.

Still undecided? Browse through the 19,000 B&Bs and country inns offering other locations and interests that might appeal to you. Some of the properties listed above are also in the best-selling bed and breakfast guidebook Bed & Breakfasts and Country Inns with a Buy-One-Night-Get-One-Night-Free Certificate. ILoveInns also offers Bed and Breakfast Gift Certificates, a perfect solution to help celebrate any occasion.