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Blantyre, in the Berkshire hills of western Massachusetts, is a baronial retreat three hours from Manhattan and two hours from Boston. Built at the turn-of-the century to replicate the owner's ancestral grand Scottish manor, its turrets, gargoyles, acres of lawn, and terraced flower beds give the arriving guest a hint of the Elizabethan elegance and personal service to be found within. The Main Hall is a Gothic fantasy of dark panelling, elaborate molded ceilings spread between dark beams, a large fireplace, and groupings of antique velvet chairs and sofas.
A carved oak staircase leads to eight rooms upstairs, each carpeted and richly decorated with period pieces. Spring water, cheese and crackers, and a basket of fruit welcome the traveler. Most rooms in The Manor have fireplaces; all have private baths with marble sinks and reproduction antique fittings. The same amenities, in a more contemporary decor, are found in the Carriage House and in several small, delightful cottages.
Each evening at five o'clock a serve-yourself cocktail cart is available in the Main Hall. Dinner is a prix fixe, three-course experience presented in the panelled and tapestried Dining Room which offers contemporary French cuisine. An appetizer of terrine of provencale vegetables with a timbale of Monterey goats cheese and tapenadee, and an entree of pan seared squab with Foie Gras and marjoram jus, followed by hazelnut torte with praline and Frangelico mousse and mixed berry sauce, are typical fare. Evening attire is required in the Manor after 6:00 p.m.
Breakfast is served in the tile-floored Conservatory. Blantyre offers tennis and croquet, each with a resident pro available for lessons. Whites must be worn for either sport. Guests may also enjoy the heated outdoor pool, sauna, and 85 acres of beautiful meadows and woods. Beyond the borders of this exquisite European fantasy are the many cultural and historical attractions of western Massachusetts.
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massachusetts
