Taking the scenic drive down Route 35 from New York, one passes homes, a gas station or two, and a sprawling horse farm. But the charm factor intensifies while entering Ridgefield proper - particularly when, on your left, a rambling white colonial is spotted - the one with the inviting front porch and a little sign out in front that reads: West Lane Inn.
The West Lane Inn, a Ridgefield landmark steeped in history, was built in 1849. Once the cherished property of the Bissell Family of Bissell Pharmacy, it now rests in the capable hands of innkeepers Christine Carnicelli and Danille Petrie. These long-time Ridgefielders, who have raised their children in town, took over the inn in October 2019, just months before the pandemic temporarily shut them down. They faced the challenge with resilience, using the time to oversee renovations, including a new HVAC system, refreshed decor, and new hardwood flooring - and have been welcoming guests since the reopening in June 2020. This fall, they will celebrate five years of West Lane Inn, a testament to their dedication and the inn's enduring charm.
As beautiful as the inn is from the road, what awaits inside is decidedly more special, thanks to Christine's and Danille's special touch. With a mix of original details – woodwork and wallpaper included - and newer additions brought by bright, fresh artwork, estate sale pieces, and colorful, upholstered headboards, each guest room is a surprise and delight.
There are 14 unique guest rooms within the inn building and three in a separate building out back. The three have kitchenettes that make them ideal for longer stays, including snowbirding couples who stay for full summers. The rooms inside the inn each have their own flavor and configuration, but there is an option for nearly every traveler, from couples and families to friends visiting town for a show. Stocked with Molton Brown products and crisp Frette linens, each guest room has its own individualized decor and a private ensuite bathroom and heating and air conditioning, a recent - and necessary - upgrade for the comfort of all guests.
West Lane Inn attracts a host of visitors, from wedding guests to New Yorkers enjoying a summer weekend to those visiting to house hunt in town..but what it offers the community cannot be overlooked. Christine and Danille currently employ an all-female staff, and each one warmly greets guests and jumps in to handle the many facets of inn life. The front desk attendant also makes the Friday afternoon chocolate chip cookies, which are a must-have. While keeping an inn humming is no easy task, the innkeeping duo cheerfully joke that they feel like the Chamber of Commerce because they often share insider tips and suggestions about local activities with guests. The inn's location makes for an ideal jumping-off point for exploring town, as it's within walking distance to Ridgefield's Hallmark movie set-worthy Main Street.
While the design feels fresh and modern, many original details have been lovingly retained, and historical books and framed images of the inn from older days can be found throughout the property. Ridgefielders and folks from nearby towns should not miss breakfast at the inn, prepared fresh daily from 8:00 - 10:30 am, and can be enjoyed inside or in fairer weather on the charming covered porch. So whether it's for a staycation, a breakfast meeting, or to stay for a weekend from farther afoot, the West Lane Inn is a one-of-a-kind destination for adventures.
West Lane Inn is located at 22 West Lane, Ridgefield, CT. For more information on the boutique property, and to make a reservation, visit westlaneinn.com.
The West Lane Inn is a one-of-a-kind destination for adventures.