Sit Back (In Time), Relax, Enjoy Antrim 1844

​After entering the grounds at The Antrim 1844, we were captivated by the gorgeous architecture of the 10 different historically rich structures that encompass the 24-acre plantation… oh and also by the abundant gardens of handpicked roses, peonies, and lilacs that create the enchanted feel of a romantic, picturesque escape from any one of our busy lives…. Or was it simply from the open arms and warm smiles of the men and women that ensured our stay at the hotel was as unique and memorable as your best stay ever, from the time we entered to the time we left?

First, a history lesson! The Antrim 1844 hotel, located in Tanytown Maryland, is an attractive hotel named after Major John McKaleb’s home in County Antrim in Ireland. McKaleb’s daughter, Margaret, married Colonel Andrew Ege who built the establishment in 1844. At the time, the mansion stayed lit with 19th century methane power. Today, those same methane pipes are used to run electricity for AC and lighting in the original structure that has seen minimal changes. 40 different rooms in 10 different locations offers each visitor the chance to form their own unique experience. On-site buildings include The Ice house- a popular spot for afternoon tea (back in the day), the Brick Kitchen, The Spring House, and the Overseer’s Wing. The Pavillion Ballroom and Pool House are both on site. The location is perfect for accommodating the near-150 weddings hosted on the grounds each year. We made friends with Betsy and Mike Krener, frequent visitors, who applaud the Antrim’s packages offered all year long. “We’ve been here a dozen times, including our Thanksgiving dinner with family,” Betsy said. “It’s a getaway that’s close but feels far away. We love everything from the rooms to the wine and cheese pairings in the Summer.”
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One remarkable room that stands in the basement of the main mansion is the Wine Cellar. Owners Richard and Dorothy Mollett, alongside General Manager Ruben Cambero, host a tasting for wine makers from all over the world to come and present their wines for an opportunity to be included in the Antrim’s top-notch menu. Guest lists have included big names in the wine industry, including Joseph Phelps of renowned Napa Valley and Sonoma Coast wineries. Each wine is tasted and given great consideration prior to being added to the cellar’s content of over 2,900 different varieties of wine from regions worldwide. The cellar includes French Grand Crus and Pertuse, and is temperature controlled. Dinner may be served to you and your guests in the luxurious wine cellar with a $400 wine purchase minimum.

Cambero is no stranger to the hospitality business. After earning his degree in Business Administration as an exchange student in Sweden, he returned home to Spain in order to work in Hotel El Peregrino, his parent’s luxury boutique hotel (a subsidiary of Relais & Chateau.) It was in his family’s hotel that he practiced managing daily property operations with an emphasis on memorable guest experiences. After arriving in the states and accepting a position with Antrim, he went strait to work bringing European roots, culture, and knowledge of genuine hospitality to the historic lodge and Smokehouse restaurant. “Here, everyone is treated the same and is equally important,” Cambero stated. “Everyone deserves the same, unforgettable experience.”

There’s no doubt about it- The Antrim is the perfect place to relax and is an exceptionally unique experience from the guest rooms to each meal’s final course. We enjoyed an unforgettable stay filled with history, food, and wine- all first-class! Want to come and join the incredible staff and other happy guests at the Antrim? Subscribe to our sister publication, Eastern Home & Travel, between now and June 30th and enter to win $300 towards your next stay at Antrim 1844! Click Subscribe today to enter!- www.easternhomeandtravel.com