20 May Casa de Solana, Where Epic Romance Begins!
The structure at 21 Aviles Street may be the seventh oldest house in St. Augustine and located on the oldest street in town, but Inn owner Jeffrey Sonia brings nothing but fresh ideas and forward thinking when it comes to running his
business.
Casa de Solana takes its name from the original owner, Don Manuel Lorenzo Solana, a member of one of the city’s first Spanish families. He was 23 years old when the British claimed St. Augustine in 1763 and was one of only eight men (all Mounted Dragoons of the Spanish Army) permitted to remain in St. Augustine after the British took over. He built a tabby house on the property that year and soon after married London-born Protestant Mary Mitchell (with whom he had 2 children). Not recognized by the Catholic Church, that marriage later dissipated. With his second wife, Menorcan Mary Mastres, he fathered 11 more Solanas! Their house was well known to offer haven to Native Americans, injured soldiers, and any traveler in need of respite. Despite the harshness of the times, the Solana Family did persevere, clinging to the love.
Today, Casa de Solana is a 10-room, full-service B&B, with that halo of love and residual energy still abound! You’ll often be greeted by the smell of something fabulous going on in the kitchen (e.g., cinnamon raisin soufflé, spinach quiche, apple harvest pancakes, roasted potatoes). The dining room presents with gorgeous dark wood floors, intimate seating, and elegant place settings. Each room has been uniquely decorated by the owners. Jeffrey has an incredible eye for fabric projects. Mary Mitchell’s room is an excellent example of his work, but there is fashion flare and a room type to fit most everyone’s desire.
In addition to its lovely interiors, the romance packages are an absolute hit. You’ll find packages as low as $279 (and that includes a room night), but the crème de la crème is the Spa Romance. At just $629, wow your sweetheart with a 2-night stay, chilled sparkling cider and chocolate covered-strawberries upon arrival; rose petals thoughtfully scattered about; 2 in-room
massages; breakfast in bed; and more!
Guests and passer-byers alike love the seasonally lush courtyard with jasmine gone wild and an impressive collection of romantic cherub statuary, making it the perfect wedding venue. Over the years, many happy couples have begun their married life by exchanging their vows here. The very popular Simple Yet Elegant elopement/vows renewal package (just $199) includes a private ceremony in the jasmine-covered arbor, background music accompanied by a softly-trickling water fountain, a small cake, and a sparkling toast.
You’ll definitely want to sign out the complimentary bicycles and hit the town, or, head off the beaten track for a more “locals” tour of St. Augustine. The architectural finds on the south end of Marine and Charlotte streets and into Lincolnville will leave you breathless. Another great ride is to Water Street, which bottoms out at the Mission where you can tie up your bikes, lie on the grassy bank in the shade, and watch for dolphins!
So whether you have a budding romance, one that needs some maintenance, or just desire a get-away that isn’t too far away, a trip to St. Augustine with a night or two at Casa de Solana will be time and money well spent! View photos of all Casa’s rooms and pick the all-inclusive package that is right for you at www.CasadeSolana.com or just call 904.824.3555!