As published in The Florida Villager.
An Unexpected Magical Weekend
I had been to New Smynra Beach during college but this trip wasn’t anything like I remember, so much had changed but what made it so memorable was the bed and breakfast I called home for 3 days. This gem is called Victoria 1883 and the minute I opened the front door, I knew this was a very special place indeed.
The décor is eclectic and blends the old with the new. At every turn, the attention to detail was above and beyond. Stepping into the main room I noticed a wicker basket in the corner filled with clear umbrellas. When I asked the owner, Fabiola about it, she said she wanted them clear so the guests could experience the rain without getting wet. If that isn’t attention to detail, I don’t what is. I noticed my room key was a person’s name and was told that each room was named for members of the previous families who had occupied the home. She relayed to me the responsibility she felt to the history of the house and how they honored all those that came before them in some way throughout the house.
The house received its name from the year it was built, 1883 and Victoria from the word victory. It is the oldest standing structure in New Smyrna Beach and the 5,200 square foot house encompasses 1.5 acres of lush foliage which is home to many butterflies, arbors, a small pond, a secret garden and even a speakeasy. The only way to describe Victoria 1883 is that it is a magical place in every sense of the word. It is not just the structure, but Fabiola makes it magical. Her love and passion for this home is contagious and her hospitality score is a 20 out of 10!
Once I got settled in my room, The Henry, I walked downstairs to the main room to check out the goodies I eyed at the welcome buffet. Again, here comes the detail. The snacks were not your run of the mill, they were organic and in packages, which made it easy for me to tuck one in my jacket as I ventured outside. With tea in hand, I sat on the veranda overlooking the water, took a deep breath and opened my book.
The next morning, I awoke staring peacefully at the beamed ceiling. It was wallpapered in green, wispy palm fronds and had gone unnoticed when I checked in the night before. The linens were so soft and “snuggly” that I had to remind myself I had a full day ahead of me or I would have definitely lingered longer.
Breakfast was served in a sundrenched room that I can only describe as Picassoesque. Chef Lee prepared a breakfast that looked too beautiful to eat. To start, I had a fresh berry cup coupled with homemade, warm cranberry nut bread. Next was avocado toast, bacon on top and then eggs over medium with a sauce drizzled over the top. I ate every bite and it’s worth mentioning that I am not a big breakfast eater.
The highlight was being led to a door with a small rabbit’s head in the corner. The door led into a very small room and I had to find the secret door into the speakeasy. I felt along the wall, found the hidden door and was instantly transported into the 1920’s. I half expected to see Bogart at the bar.
There is so much more I would like to share with you, but I have run out of space. I am happy to talk with you and answer any questions you might have. You can reach me at debbiemartinez1@mac.com. Also, please visit their website and believe me when I say, don’t think twice about visiting New Smyrna Beach, even if you have been there before, and don’t tarry, book your magical stay at Victoria 1883.
#An Unexpected Magical Weekend Travel Articles