Stay at Lavender Inn

January 21, 2013:

I am all about the back-story. I love hearing about people’s journey, I feel it makes my life richer. This story is one of human kindness, being of service, and giving back. If you have ever known someone who is constantly giving, then you know what kind of person I’m talking about; a walking, breathing angel! This is what I would aspire to be on any given day. Kathy the owner of The Lavender Inn in Ojai is all that and more.

We sat down a few weeks ago and she told me about the event that she has at her Inn. A couple of times a year she hosts a 3-day retreat for women who have cancer, called INN-courage. It is designed to empower women going through chemotherapy, and to bring about a sisterhood with others going through the same thing. Most of the women attending are not able to afford any spa services, and have very little medical benefits. Kathy provides spa services as well as hair and makeup and wigs. All of these services, including, staying at the Inn and even meals are free, and offered as a gift by Kathy’s kindness and generosity. Most business owners are not this generous, but Kathy believes that this is her life calling. The day I got there one of these retreats had just ended. What can I say about Kathy, all things at the Inn reflect her joyous caring nature, and everything is seen through real rose-colored glasses. If you want any of this to rub off on you then high tail it to this glorious bed and breakfast in the heart of Ojai….now!

The Lavender Inn is a historic bed and breakfast and was built in 1874. They have an on-site day spa; host customized Ojai weddings, offer cooking classes, and participate in the Clean The World program. It also has garden celebrations and can accommodate honeymoons and baby moons. The amenities include: Ojai Culinary School, complimentary wine and cheese daily from 5-6PM, guest computers, Wi-Fi, library and entertainment, cozy robes and Ojai athletic club passes.

The rooms are so sweet, everyone different, mine was called The Romantic Suite, and it lived up to its name. It was kind of shabby chic, with some nice crafty twists. It features a king iron bed, blending antiques with a modern flair. It boosts an East facing balcony to watch the sunrise, looking the backside of the Ojai arcade, all with a private bath. A hand-stenciled chandelier adorns the bathroom wall, and a fun collage over the bed. They have flat screen TV’s with direct TV, but all in all the room is very spacious and quiet.

The rescue cat “Hope” is so perfectly named, this Inn is all about hope, given to all who arrive. The spirit of love and giving is all around and when you leave, your attitude has been fully adjusted, and you are reborn. Kathy is so amazing; her giving back and humanitarian efforts are so commendable.

They serve a great breakfast, which changes everyday. This incredible homemade bounty is served buffet style. You can eat in the Dining Room with seating inside, on the Veranda, or privately under the arbor. The day I was there this is what they served: Polenta casserole with broccoli, tomato, leek, basil, soy chorizo and asiago cheese. Pesto parsley & chive potato pancakes. Pineapple-chicken sausage, with Spanish onion and basil. Buttermilk biscuits with parmesan and rosemary. Ocean ranch organic locally made lemon blue granola. Fresh orange juice, seasonal fruit, freshly baked items, locally roasted coffee, granola, yogurt, and a frittata, strata, or other hot entree are served daily. Herbs and vegetables are picked daily from their organic herb garden. Everything coming out of their kitchen is amazing!

So if you want to be in the lap of luxury and have spiritual fulfillment at the same time, The Lavender Inn is just what the doctor ordered.