Chanterelle Country Inn www.chanterelleinn.com

Overlooking the North River and St. Ann's Bay, the Chanterelle Country Inn offers a serene, elegant setting meant to capture the simple lifestyle of the region's First Nations, Gaelic and French heritage.

The fresh atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make Chanterelle a choice pick for retreats or romantic getaways all year round, as well as meeting points for any kind of workshop.

They offer several business servces for retreats or workshops, such as photocopying, large screen tv, net access, and a fax machine.

There are eight rooms and a two room suite all accomodated with antique furniture, ceiling fans, original art, and oriental carpets. Each room also has a private four-piece bath. The two room suite is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families with one or two children.

All the rooms are non-smoking to coincide with Chanterelle's "Green Environment" policy -- The accomodations are made to be as natural as possible, with organic soaps and cleaners, and 100% cotton towels and linens. Water and space heat are provided by solar energy. This is the kind of clean surroundings that help focus and channel positive energies. To truly enjoy any retreat, it's important to have this kind of environment. It's like a pre-emptive positive vibe.

Outside the Inn, nature flourishes unbounded, and can be seen at every corner along the several trails or even just from the screened verandah. The property covers 150 acres stretching from St. Ann's Harbour to the top of the mountain, meaning there's a lot to see and explore. The woods give a great chance to come across moose or deer, and to birdwatch. The river shore is a great place to visit as well, with a screened gazebo and pedal boats available to take out into the water. All the fresh air can be very uplifting and energizing. Chanterelle offers cross-country skiing packages in January, Feb and March, with skis available for rent. Guests can ski the trails on the property, and there are other groomed trails nearby.

Entertainment at the Chanterelle Inn is a serious matter. In the summertime there is song and dance, storytelling and presentations to keep guests thrilled. The Chanterelle Inn also offers an extensive library to borrow from. Televisions are available upon request, though there's so much to explore outside that they won't be neccessary!

The meals served feature "Cape Breton Fresh" cuisine, with organic, locally grown fruits, vegetables and meats. The choice of evening entrees includes vegetarian, non vegetarian and seafood dishes. Chanterelle serves organic coffees and wines, and makes use of pure springwater from their well. Yet another step in the right direction.

Between a clean friendly atmosphere and exciting outdoor adventures, the Chanterelle Country Inn offers everything a guest could wish for and more. It's the perfect place to book a retreat for a small group. To learn more about the Inn, visit their website at www.chanterelleinn.com. See you there!