This was my first time staying in a bed and breakfast, so I have precious little to compare it to. That said, I could not imagine a better experience than the one my girlfriend and I had at Montclair Bed and Breakfast, which is a restored late 1800s home. The B&B is a small one, and felt like a well-kept secret compared to some of the larger facilities in the town. There are two rooms for rent available in the main house (where the proprietors do live, though you have your own access and can make your own schedule), and a room off of the garden with a separate entrance. We stayed in the garden room, and were very pleased. The room has a queen-size bed and full bathroom with stall shower, and is made up in a very cute garden style (white and flowery, rather than the antique-style wood and deep colors of the main house). There is also a small patio with a bench swing and some furniture to sit outside if the weather cooperates.

Pros:
- The proprietors are a lovely couple who are extremely warm, friendly, and helpful. They were always quick to answer questions and provide information and context about the town. They were extremely knowledgeable about the area, including current events, activities, special occasions, and otherwise. They are truly a part of that community and it shows.
- The breakfasts were extremely tasty and substantial, though during the time we were there, there was a limited selection (warm option or cold option). However, the eggs that we had the first day were very good, and the stuffed French Toast topped with fresh grilled peaches on the second day was divine. The breakfasts were always prompt and relaxing to start the day.
- The location is great. It is directly across from Mary Baldwin College and two blocks away from the main drag, which has an amazing amount of food, culture, and shopping for a small town. There is plenty of street parking, but everything is in walking distance, and we only had to get in the car when we left town to go on an outing.
- The house itself is lovely and charming. As I noted, our room was great, but the rest of the house is made up in a unique, antique style befitting the history and dignity of Staunton. It was clean (my girlfriend says “immaculate”), and feels very warm and inviting and does feel like a home away from home.
- The price was right and the value was tremendous. I don’t remember the exact rate per night, but it was at least twenty to thirty dollars cheaper than many of the other options that we checked out, and I felt that we could not have made a better choice.

Cons:
- Though it was not a con for us, the proprietors are extremely friendly and chatty, and those looking for a more independent experience may find it to be a bit overwhelming.
- Though guests are hopefully “out and about”, I’d note that the technology area was a bit lacking – the flat screen did not have HD service, and though there was a DVD player, there were only old VHS tapes in the garden room. The Wi-Fi was a bit weak at times as well.

If you are looking for a relaxing, charming and intimate getaway, you cannot go wrong with the town of Staunton, and you certainly cannot go wrong staying at Montclair.

My husband and I decided at the last minute (the night before) to attend the Winter Wine Festival in Staunton in February 2012. Needless to say, we felt that finding accommodations would be tricky. We were relieved to find that Montclair B&B had vacancy. Upon arrival, we were pleasantly surprised--it was nicer than we'd hoped! The innkeepers were extremely friendly and welcoming. The full breakfast in the morning was delicious and served in the lovely dining room. We will definitely stay in the Montclair next time we're in Staunton!