Relax and unwind with a midweek staycation at The Red Lion Inn.
By Courtney Doyle
Photography by Kjeld Mahoney
If the hectic pace of the holiday season has you craving a getaway that doesn’t require excessive planning or venturing too far from home, a staycation may be just what you need. Situated at the heart of Cohasset Village, The Red Lion Inn (est. 1704) offers cozy accommodations and historic charm, making it an ideal retreat for anyone looking for a cozy winter escape. While the inn has long been a premier destination for weddings, events, and out-of-town guests, its seasonal midweek getaway packages invite locals to slow down, unwind, and enjoy a few indulgences right here on the South Shore.
Each of the 15 guest rooms at The Red Lion Inn exude understated luxury, featuring four-poster beds, gas fireplaces and whirlpool jacuzzi tubs. Guests who book the seasonal midweek getaway package can experience all that the inn has to offer, including dinner service at the Red Lion Tavern, a nightcap in the Pub, and an in-room continental breakfast. Though some package details change with the seasons, a spacious King Room with jacuzzi tub is always part of the experience.
When guests arrive to check in, there is complimentary coffee and spa water in the lobby. Friendly staff are there to help secure reservations in the dining room and note any special events taking place on site. On Thursday evenings, for example, guests can visit “The Cave,” a speakeasy-style venue tucked beneath the inn, which hosts live bands and comedians. Upstairs at the Pub, guests can sink into leather armchairs beside a crackling fireplace and sip on seasonal cocktails or a glass of wine.
Once settled, take a leisurely stroll through Cohasset Village to explore the local boutiques, cafes and art galleries. Discover a new favorite latte at Seabird Coffee & Co., peruse local treasures inside the Anchor & Sail General Store, browse the latest fashions at Assembly or Ports & Company, and take a moment to savor local art at a nearby gallery. The South Shore Art Center, located just around the corner from the Inn, is open Monday through Saturday and showcases a wide variety of art created by local artists.
When it’s time for dinner, the Tavern’s inviting dining room, with its five wood-burining fireplaces, sets the stage for a cozy evening. Executive Chef Phil Lewis pays homage to his Portuguese roots while expertly blending quintessential New England flavor profiles with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. His carefully curated menu features dishes like homemade Pan Seared Potato Gnocchi, Baked New England Blue Cod, and New England Pot Roast. Seasonal salads, Baked Salmon, and the Tavern’s wildly popular Traditional Bolognese (made extra flavorful with a sweet sausage ragu) round out a menu that is both adventurous and classic.
Be sure to take in the history of the Captain’s Room, where a framed brick wall and vintage artifacts reflect the inn’s storied past. Browse the Tavern’s dinner menu and notice the local farms and purveyors represented throughout the seasonal selections–wild, organic mushrooms from McGuires Mushrooms (Hingham), fresh seafood from Mullaney’s Seafood (Scituate), oysters from Duxbury Oyster Company (Duxbury) alongside seasonal produce from local farms. The chill in the air may inspire you to try the New England Clam Chowder with smoked bacon and oyster crackers, or the Tavern Burger with Vermont Cheddar and hand-cut French fries. For dessert, the homemade Chocolate Pot de Crème, Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet, and Cinnamon-Sugar Ricotta Doughnuts offer a sweet ending to the day.
In the morning, as sunlight begins to peek through the painted wood shutters and you awaken from your peaceful slumber, you can brew your own espresso or tea at your in-room beverage station and enjoy a complimentary Breakfast Box (complete with pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, juice, and jams) in the comfort of your room. Or head to the lobby for freshly brewed coffee to-go (available between 7 and 10 a.m.).
With its centuries-old charm, thoughtful details, and modern comforts, The Red Lion Inn proves that sometimes a relaxing overnight stay is all you need to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
For more information, visit redlioninn1704.com.
