Something old, turned something new. That’s what the Dove Inn, in Golden is all about. A husband-wife team, known for their modern home in Denver, built from freight containers, were approached to take over a bed and breakfast in an 1866 home, in a prime location just off of Main Street. Lucky for their guests, they’ve managed to honor what’s historic while incorporating modern conveniences.
Libby and Regan Foster weren’t planning to go into the boutique inn business but the opportunity arose and they grabbed it. They renovated the property and have been operating it as a stay-out-of-your-way, let-you-have-fun manner, while still making sure everything is being tended to, around the clock.
There is no front desk, nor a person to check in with. You’re provided with codes to enter the house and your room. Someone is there during the day, checking on things, stocking the fridge, and doing the housekeeping duties. But otherwise, it’s just you and the other guests, able to be as social or antisocial as you wish.
The inviting first floor has one guest room, and a narrow staircase as you enter the house. But to the right is a big, open space with lots of parlour seating, a cozy fireplace, two dining tables and a dream of a kitchen. Help yourself to coffee, including cold brew on tap. There’s fresh fruit out on the counter so grab an apple before heading up to bed or out for the day. And in the mornings, there are house-made pastries, granola, yogurt, and a variety of milk options, plus fresh juice for you to help yourself to. In a way, it’s a dream situation – it’s like staying at a friend’s totally awesome house while they are otherwise occupied, thereby leaving you be to have your own retreat. And it’s very unlike a luxury hotel that over-serves you, leaving you to feel a little awkward (“Do I tip them for that, and that, and that?). It’s hands-off but you’re in very good hands.
A word of warning about the staircase – watch your step going up and coming down. This is an old house with shallow steps and a low railing from a time when people were just more petite. Watch your step but enjoy the charm.
Depending on how you feel about old-time photos of people, you’ll either be charmed or slightly uneasy about the stern-looking photos lining the hallway.
Once in your room though, it’s all warmth, whimsy, and welcoming. In the Serenity Suite, where we stayed, we loved the velvety curtains, a plush daybed, a big bed with tufted wingback headboard, double shower, beautiful tub, and tiny tiles.
The ceiling, angled by dormers, is white clapboard. A tiny door and small ledge above the shower had us wondering what might be up there and whether it was original to the house (probably). The only odd thing was that there was an open area between the bathroom and bedroom, despite a partial wall and solid door. “Turn on the TV and turn it up!” my husband called out to me as he used the bathroom. Later, we found the switch to the fan which provided enough… privacy, shall we say. Consider it a quirk. That layout did allow lovely natural light to flood the room though.
Although there’s loads to do in Golden, from restaurants to shops, to hiking, and entertainment, allow yourself some time to curl up with a book or visit with other guests in the parlour, or just hang out in your room, sleeping in, all cozy and warm. The atmosphere is too pretty and welcoming to rush off. No one is there to bother you. It’s just your time and your getaway.
The Dove Inn is located at 711 14th Street, Golden. Street parking is available for free, just watch the signs.
Get ideas for other Colorado Stays in our series.
Comments are closed.