Chestnut Charm Bed & Breakfast

It was just right. Had my company christmas party which was not even a mile from here, so very covient.

My wife and I just came back from an anniversary stay at the Chestnut Charm Bed and Breakfast. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves., and saw a lot of interesting things in the area. By way of background, we are experienced travelers, in the States, and elsewhere – we have stayed in a number of different types of accommodations here, in Canada, and in most of Europe. We are veterans. Here are some specifics. Our suite in the carriage house was spotless, roomy, had a lovely balcony on it and was very clean and comfortable AND quiet. It was, as one reviewer said, a step back into another era. IF you’re looking for modern and new, go somewhere else; if you’re looking for a relaxing time in another era, you want to come here. The breakfast was home-made, good and was served in a sun room which had a lot of plants which, not surprisingly are in dirt, as most plants are (unless they are plastic) We did not feel “unclean” at any time The owner was very helpful and understood privacy. When we first sat down for breakfast, she asked if we wanted her to join us and, at that time, we said no, and she very nicely went away and checked back in again. She was very helpful with suggestions on where to go and things to see; and if she felt she was offering too much information, she would back off quickly. If you don’t like suggestions, just say no. We certainly did not feel like “teenagers” as one reviewer put it. In short, this is an older place with old furniture and charm; yes, there wasn’t internet service in our room, so if you’re trying to conduct a lot of business, you might want to go elsewhere – but frankly, it was our anniversary and that’s the last thing I wanted to be tempted to do (there is an adequate WIFI router in the main room which you can use to check emails). We recommend this place.

The owner was a very nice lady. She wanted to talk with ya. And help suggest ideas of things to do and where to eat. The up keep on the bed and breakfast is to much for one person to handle. So I feel she struggles keeping things done. She is trying to do everything herself. I felt like I was a teenager again as I felt you couldn’t come and go without saying what you were doing and when you were coming back. There was no key for the front door so you had to ring for her to come unlock the front door. So we didn’t want to be out to late. The sun porch where we had our breakfast had plants and pots full of dirt. Cobwebs were everywhere out there. So felt very unclean. We will not be staying here again. Unfortunately we were not satisfied. Also I knew breakfast was extra money. We paid onsite instead of ********** wish we would’ve it would’ve been cheaper. As it was going to be $310 then add the 40 for breakfast for two times two mornings so should’ve been $350. Was charged $369 I think.

We stayed here this past weekend. It was lovely. When I called for the reservation Barbara also told me about several places to visit on our way there. One was Walnut Iowa. It is filled with shops! Some great antiques and other fun places! She also told us about a wonderful restaurant, Redwood in Anita Iowa! It was fabulous! The food was the best I’ve had in years and they treat you wonderfully! Our room had a fireplace in it connecting the bedroom and bathroom. The Jacuzzi was great and also has a nice big tub and shower on it ! We had a cute little balcony also. She made us and egg omelette that was yummy and the best apple cinnamon muffin! She was a great host and told us many interesting facts about the Victorian home we were at.

My room was right out of the Victorian era, artful and very comfortable; breakfast delicious, dry peaceful

When we arrived, we were told the room we reserved was overbooked but that they had another room but it cost more. Breakfast wasn’t included.

Barbara, the proprietress was very accommodating from check in through check out. Our bed was very comfortable and our room was quiet and nicely appointed. Breakfast, at the time we chose, was delicious-baked apple, specially prepared oatmeal and tasty Iowa bacon, juice and lots of coffee. I am gluten free so this food was prepared specially to accommodate me. We enjoyed eating in the sun/plant room.

Historical, quaint, wonderful host.

This beautifully restored mansion features a formal sitting room, a music room and a light-filled atrium in which our breakfasts were served with courtesy and flare. Chef Barbara's creativity and expertise were on display with every breakfast. For example one morning we had fresh asparagus wrapped into scrambled eggs served with Iowa bacon, great coffee and juice. Another morning it was cinnamon baked apple serve with her own maple syrup. We felt comfortable immediately in our spacious room, This was just what we were looking for. Our hostess Barbara is a noted professional chef as well as informed source of information about the town of Atlantic and the surrounding areas.We loved roaming the grounds of the estate with its giant shade trees, lovely gazebo and native plants. . Truly, this is no" cookie cutter" type of lodging. We discovered Chestnut Charm allowed us to immerse ourselves into a nostalgic, sensory and peaceful setting. We will be back.