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I wanted to plan a very special fall trip for my wife of 48 years… after raising three children, a demanding professional career and far too few trips for the two of us over the years. After a month of planning, searching, and comparing options, I chose Golden Anchor, the Royale; booked a week in October. She knew nothing of the details, only a trip to the mountains. She was fearful that I had booked a ‘rustic, moldy, snake infested’ cabin in the woods. Her face lit up when she stepped inside the Royale. First it was immaculately clean, most important. Next, it was handsomely decorated… ‘petals and swans’ decorating the bed, hearth alight, soft music playing and chocolate covered strawberries on the table. These were not the mail order green, sour, hard strawberries but each one perfectly ripe, sweet, juicy and delicious! How am I doing so far, dear? I told her we would ‘climb a mountain to its heights… then watch the stars come out at night.’ We did just that. Early morning trip to the Allegheny Front to see sunrise over the mountains and an easy hike, a picnic mid afternoon and back to the Royale to soak in the hot tub and watch the stars. The shower was great and some time to relax in front of the fireplace. I think she really likes it. The kitchen was well equipped and supplied… I did the cooking when we didn’t eat out. She really did appreciate that. Daniel had made arrangements for the mountain rail excursion and horseback riding… everything arranged and everything ready. Would a woman fearful of small dogs actually mount a horse for the first time in her life? Yeah! She did and she really, really likes it all!

Daniel and Jamie have a great concept and very well executed. Its obvious they go to great lengths to make their properties very comfortable for their guests. Great mountain views, clean, quite and private sets the mood for a relaxing and enjoyable time for couples to reconnect. The Royale is the most comfortable place I have ever stayed away from my own home… including five star properties in Fort Lauderdale, Key West, San Francisco, Maui, Atlanta… (but mostly with kids or in-laws in tow).

I have never written a review but we both were so impressed with Golden Anchor in every respect, I am compelled to share and to recommend this venue to those who would consider a trip to the WV mountains. We’ll definitely return at the first opportunity but whenever that is, it will not be soon enough.

Guys… don’t forget the ‘petals and swans’ and especially the chocolate covered strawberries!