We figured after we wrote up the article COVID-19 PA Yellow Phase – How Restaurants Work, it made sense to do the same and report back on how lodging is handling the yellow phase. So we decided to go to our “go to” place, Iona Stables and Inn.
The last time we were at and wrote about Iona Stables and Inn, we had a really great experience. Since then, hosts Robert and Linda have made a concerted effort to step up their game even further. Especially with the COVID-19 situation.
They asked us some questions similar to those we list in our article COVID-19 Yellow Phase – What Are Lodging Establishments Doing? Fortunately for us, we have not been majorly affected by the virus, nor has anyone we are in close contact with.
The Breakfast
Wow. Just wow.
It was good before, but it’s over the top amazing now. For staples, they had the typical two types of cereal with milk and two fruit juices (orange and grapefruit), and a variety of toast options. They also had 3 different types of fruit – fresh grapes, strawberries, and blueberries. Last but not least, they had some nice strong coffee, worthy of a coffee lover’s praise.
When we were there before, in addition to bacon and sausage patties, they also served us Scrapple. Scrapple is a mid-Atlantic food utilizing parts of the pig that are not popularly sold, it even has its own web page! As a result of future guests realizing they make it, they now ask ahead to see if guests would like to have them prepare it for them.
As we were there two nights, we discovered they provided a different “main course” for each of the breakfasts. On the first morning, we had an egg bake that included a nice combination of ground beef and cheese, with sliced tomato garnish.
On the second morning, the main was baked bread with mixed fruit and a collection of spices that make your mouth water just smelling it bake.
Both mornings the food was fresh and delicious. Not something we’ve had at a typical bed and breakfast. It is a better variety and better than most.
The Place
They have a lot of room. While we were there, there was a family of three inhabiting the two rooms on the first floor. We were on the second floor. Both floors have their own bathroom. The two rooms downstairs have a shared bathroom.
For COVID-19, they clean a lot. Really a lot. They are working diligently to make all guests not only feel safe, but also let us know how much they are doing in that regard.
When it came to appropriate distancing, there was plenty of opportunity to keep separated. Not only is the house large, staggering feeding times was available.
The rooms have been re-painted, which added a fresh look. New lock sets were installed and keys have been made available for the individual room locks.
Some of the many other pluses we enjoy while at Iona Stables and Inn?
The sunset over the Cedar Creek is absolutely beautiful.
Even if you don’t ride, the horses are fun to visit!
After dark, the lighting highlights the entrance quite nicely. The patio is fun to hang out on as well.
Overall it’s a great place to stay. Quiet, relaxing, great hosts, well behaved and friendly pets, great food.
The Area
As mentioned in our previous article, Iona is close to a wide variety of places. Less than 5 minutes drive, there’s Slaughter Beach. It’s a small, virtually private beach and is believed to have received its name from William Slaughter, a local postmaster. There’s a 21 vehicle lot close to the beach itself complete with handicapped parking, but there’s a larger parking area just across the street. They have a pavilion that can be rented for parties. From the parking to the beach is a short walk.
Lewes and Rehoboth beaches are not that far either, 18 and 20 miles respectively. Of course traffic during beach season is a little slower.
Then there’s shopping, a sports arena and dozens of restaurants from fast food to upscale sit down. There’s a lot to do in the area!
Disclosure statement:
JMO did receive free lodging on the dates of our review.