What do girls want more than diamonds? A weekend of beautiful horses, shopping, and special treatment at a gracious, southern b&b!

My mother and I took a short girls-only trip to Lexington in June and thoroughly enjoyed our time at Rose Hill Inn in Versailles, Kentucky. The owners were away conducting their "Rose Sail Inn" in the British Virgin Islands, but Tamara treated us like members of the family from the moment of arrival.

We stayed in "Scout's Room" which is perfect for a mother-daughter trip, as it includes twin beds decked out in fine linens. "Scout's Room" has a second-floor, corner location with a pretty view of the stately homes across the street. Chocolate chip cookies and candles were nice touches. The bath is not attached, but is only two steps across the quiet hall. What a treat! It includes a stained-glass window, claw-foot tub with bubble bath, and separate shower. Incidentally, all rooms were adorable. We peeked into the room across the hall and were shocked to find an amazing renovated bath including spa-quality shower, jet tub, mahogany cabinetry, pot lighting, and more stained-glass. That would certainly be a romantic spot!

Breakfast was hearty and sophisticated. The first morning, we enjoyed berries & creme, followed by french toast and an egg souffle. On our second morning, we were served fresh melon, followed by an eggs benedict-ish omelette accompanied by hash browns. Yum! The crystal & china table settings and fresh flowers added to the charm.

Adding to the fabulous breakfast, immaculately clean guest rooms, extensive library, and welcoming service, Rose Hill treats its guests to a number of little touches which keep you from feeling nickle & dimed. A generous supply of toiletries and away-from-home necessities are available, and the upstairs landing offers coffee & tea service along with a microwave and small refrigerator. A long list of board games were out for use, guests are encouraged to play the piano, and a computer with internet access is available. The owners have certainly thought ahead, meeting every single wish a guest might request.

For those touring the area, Versailles is a perfect spot to stay the night. Within walking distance of the inn are numerous restaurants, great antique shops, a corner store / gas station with snacks and ice cream, and several historic districts to snoop around in. A few miles in any direction leads you into gorgeous thoroughbred country. Be sure to take the back roads near sunset and visit with the mares and foals you'll encounter along the way. Nearby Midway offers quaint little shops and more fun restaurants, and Asbury College is only ten minutes down the road. We especially enjoyed visiting Ashford Stud's stallions (call for an appointment January - July) and Normandy Farm's mares with their foals (also requires a reservation).

We've stayed in countless B&B's over the years and consider Rose Hill to be THE best-managed property we've encountered thus far. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!