Not all those who wander are lost — we spent the weekend in a Hobbit Hole. / by Tom Giles

After an amazing month in Bend, it was time to begin Phase 2 of our adventure. Our first stop was the Burrowdale Inn, a bright & cheery Hobbit Hole. Complete with Second Breakfast!

Located in Bella Vista, a northern suburb of Redding, CA, this bed & breakfast is clearly a labor of love. Lael, our wonderful host, was also an absolutely incredible cook. We were sad to leave, but glad for the experience.

I especially enjoyed our first night. We stayed up late, roasted marshmallows, and stared at the stars while Lael told stories about how and why he built the place.

It felt as if we were almost actually in The Shire, resting our weary feet before heading off on yet another adventure.

The entrance to each Hobbit Hole was through a heavy, round door. Opening into an expansive front sitting space, the rooms felt considerably larger than you’d expect. I guess that’s what eleven foot tall ceilings do to a space.

When we first arrived, we were welcomed with High Elvish written into our bedspread. This was just the first of many LOTR and Hobbit inspired, whimsical details we enjoyed throughout our stay. Yes, the thematic decorations were expected, but still an absolute delight!

As fun and cozy as the rooms were, Second Breakfast was the showstopper. Made from scratch by Lael and his wife, each breakfast was a work of art. Fine dining delivered in a wicker basket? Yes please!

For our first Second Breakfast, we enjoyed baked oats and Shire potatoes. Sounds simple, but oh my was it delicious. And what a presentation! On our second morning, we indulged in Swedish pancakes with caramelized pears, and savory egg & cheese waffles with hollandaise sauce 🤤

Though we only stayed the weekend, our time at Burrowdale Inn was a memorable and lovely experience!

If you ever find yourself near Redding in Northern California, I highly recommend booking a stay, even if for only one night. Second Breakfast alone is worth it!