First, my deepest apologies to Leslie for taking sooooo long to get around to writing this review! This past December (12/23/2011), my sister and I decided to go on a cross-country road trip for the first time ever. Along the way we had the pleasure of meeting so many gracious hosts, seeing this beautiful country, experiencing terrifying road conditions and growing closer. During our 20-day trip we stayed with friends, in hostels, 4-star hotels, roadside motels, but nothing (let me repeat for dramatic emphasis) NOTHING compared to the absolute pleasure of staying at the Elk Ridge B&B. Why you ask? Here are the top five reasons why...
1) Location can't be beat...
At EB&B you'll find a warm, comfortable, clean and inviting place to call home for however many nights you plan to be a guest. It's a bit tricky to find (Google has no idea what you're talking about if you try to find it on the map), but if you follow the very carefully detailed directions provided by your gracious hosts, you'll find it in no time and it will be so worth it. Like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow that is hidden in the Black Hills Forest.
2) No detail is spared...
Upon arriving (very late in the evening because we were running behind schedule) there were cookies, candy and peppermint hot chocolates waiting for us. Leslie was also kind enough to provide bath oils so that we could draw ourselves a bath to relax. Other details: beautiful decor, plenty of blankets and towels, bathrobes, fully stocked bathroom, maps and guides, and parting gifts!
3) The hosts with the most.
At EB&B you'll find two of the most accommodating hosts, who are genuinely kind and warm people. A very caring, lovely and charming couple with a serious appreciation for the area, nature and travel. A necessary ingredient to an authentic experience!
4) The breakfast is NOT too good to be true.
Leslie is an amazing cook and whipped up the best breakfast we had during the entire 20-day trip. The menu: stuffed french toast, bacon and eggs, coffee, orange juice and a whole lotta love. We were also able to take coffee to-go as we headed out to check out Rushmore. A godsend because coffee to me is like water to fish.
5) Go local for the full experience!
Finally, there are a plethora of reasons why going local is so much better. When you opt for cozier accommodations versus a personality-deficient chain hotel, you make friends. The dictionary defines travel as going on a journey. And a journey not only involves the physical act of moving from one place to another but also the experience of meeting new people, encountering new cultures and giving back to the community that has welcomed you with open arms. Give back by supporting local businesses like B&B's. It's the only way to travel.
When (not if) we come back to enjoy South Dakota during a warmer time of the year, there is absolutely no other place we'll be staying. Do yourself a huge favor and book a night or two at this little treasure hidden in the hills.
