Ladies and gentlemen, are you in need of a fast fix for that worn out, rundown, feeling? Wishing for a rapid romance boost? Call The Foxes Inn and pack your bags!

Nestled in the heart of historical downtown Sutter Creek, the luxury bed and breakfast inn is a beacon of light for those in search of pampering and tranquility. Thanks to a revitalizing blend of good old-fashioned hospitality, elegance, and epicurean delight, the Graziadei family treats guests as dear friends dropping in for an overdue visit. Their genuine kindness and caring for each other is uplifting; for visitors, it’s delightfully contagious.

It was just over a year ago when southern Californians Mike, Monique and Morgan Graziadei fell under the spell of Sutter Creek’s charming 19th century Victorian Jewel. The family relocated their horses, house pets and recipes to the pleasant, close-knit community as a heartfelt choice “for our daughter and for us as a family,” says Mike.

Prior to the move, Mike and Monique visited numerous B&B’s across the country, taking notes on what amenities and personal touches made visitors feel pampered. And they continue to periodically peep into other inns, including their own. Packing up the bags and “checking in” for a weekend as guests helps to keep the rooms fresh, while spotting where improvements can be made. No thoughtful stone is left unturned. Desiring to nurture guests, their observations are put into practice, and the end result is exceptional.

Long before Mike and Monique entered the B&B lifestyle, their home was always the favorite gathering spot for family and friends. That hasn’t changed. Monique says managing the inn is very similar to running a home, adding, “It never feels like work.”

The elegant gathering parlor offers guests the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the friendly staff, enjoy a beverage and snack, and peruse the famous breakfast menu for the following morning.

Morgan Grace’s Gifts, the inn’s specialized boutique offers shoppers an eclectic selection of accessories and gifts. If you’re lucky, you might be treated to the musical talents of Monique or daughter Morgan, as they tickle the ivories on the baby grand piano while you browse!

The Foxes Inn currently offers six exquisite guest rooms. Here is a sampling of what you can look forward to:

The Honeymoon Suite is a gracefully appointed hideaway, suitable for Cinderella and her Prince, or for anyone who simply wants to gallop off into the sunset with their dreams. On this particular visit, the shoe fit, so I wore it!

The suite features an opulent canopy bed adorned with the inn’s signature 1200 thread-count sheets, all laundered, starched and hand ironed (yes, hand ironed) daily. Delightful chocolates lay by the bedside, and a book of prose to romance the evening away. Or enjoy a good book in front of the crackling fire. A private entry into the gardens invites a midnight stroll.

An antique claw foot tub peeks out from the spacious bathroom, and with a touch of whimsy, a rubber ducky begs to be bobbled. The dressing table with a lighted magnified mirror adds a nice feminine touch. From the downy soft towels to the delicately scented Bath and Body Works accompaniments, weary crowned heads will feel stress slip away into pampered luxury.

The Anniversary Room, is located upstairs and a must-stay for antique enthusiasts. Cathedral ceilings bathe soft light over a majestic bedroom suite designed in elegantly soothing colors. The signature claw foot tub invites relaxation in the large bath with separate shower.

The Victorian Suite, also found on the second floor, is decorated in rich wood tones, and features a flat panel TV mounted above the expansive fireplace. Soft furnishings surround the comfortable bed and sitting area. The claw foot tub in the bath is truly a showpiece!

All guestrooms feature signature bathrobes, hair dryer, CD player, refrigerator and complimentary beverages. TV/VCR/DVD’s are available in all of the rooms.

In addition, each room is graced with an intimate table for two, decorated with fresh flowers awaiting guests who choose to have breakfast served in their suite; or visitors may choose to dine al fresco in the idyllic garden.

“I take pride in the gardens,” beams Mike, who enjoys nurturing the plants, herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers that are used in the gourmet meals as well as for decoration at the inn. The manicured gardens surrounding The Foxes Inn will be featured in an upcoming issue of Sunset magazine.

From Swedish pancakes to Chile Rellenos, Chef Monique takes pride in her gourmet breakfasts, each cooked-to-order and famously served on silver service. For 25 years, the delicious recipes that lure guests back time and again remain largely unchanged. Still, Monique sprinkles the menu with her own touches, and has plans to add a recipe or two of her own.

Likewise, the inn will soon offer Foxes Boxes, a romantic combination complete with picnic basket and blanket, tablecloth, wine glasses, and gourmet options for lunch. What could be more perfect?

We enjoyed our delicious two-course breakfast in the gazebo, graciously served by head housekeeper Florence Berry, who is a resolute expert on the finer points of inn keeping. Jean Bardsley is the assistant innkeeper, and part of five staff members who keep the luxury bed and breakfast running smoothly.

To help plan activities for the day, our meal was accompanied with a card informing us of the day’s weather forecast, prepared by Morgan, and just one of her many charming touches at the B&B. In addition, she skillfully manages Morgan Grace’s Gifts, and prepares lemonade from her own special recipe, which she often serves to guests and passersby. “Morgan is part of the business,” adds Mom, matter-of-factly. And did I mention she’s eleven years old?

Thoughtful services The Foxes Inn provides include bell and concierge service – a rarity at most B&B’s. Plus, the inn can assist with dining reservations at a number of outstanding area restaurants, as well as handle transportation arrangements.

Interested in exploring the Sutter Creek area? Put on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and discover award-winning wineries, unique shops, local theatre, live entertainment and gourmet restaurants, all within easy walking distance. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, take a gamble at the nearby casino or gold mine.

Try a favorite pastime in this Mayberry-like community: people-watching. Step out onto the expansive wraparound porch, armed with a tall glass of Morgan’s lemonade, and watch the tourists and locals. As cares and worries fade away, I can’t think of a better way to spend a lazy fall afternoon.

Whether you’re looking for romance, R&R, or maybe a little of both, the Graziadei family welcomes you with open arms, and once you catch an enchanting sample of their contagious comforts, you will leave refreshed, rejuvenated, and returning soon for more.