Falling for Fairhope, AL

 

I have seen several features of Point Clear & Fairhope, Alabama in Southern Living and Coastal Living magazines. To my joy, J and I made a detour to check out these fine cities on our way back to NOLA from our latest beach vacay. Gorgeous homes, quaint restaurants& shoppes, and the Grand Hotel Marriot Resort lined the road along our drive.

We decided to stop in Fairhope, AL for lunch and a short tour around the precious downtown area.

The area is so well kept and bustling with tourists and locals alike.

From the City of Fairhope website:

“In 1894, our community was established by a group of adventurous people who came together with a “fair hope of success.” Their experimental community blossomed and grew into a city. Now, more than 100 years later, Fairhope's “success” is more than apparent in our bustling downtown, spacious parks, and tree-shaded neighborhoods.

We're not a big city - in fact, Fairhope still retains much of its original small-town ambiance, but Fairhope is unique in many ways. We're known for our active arts community, exceptional schools, outstanding public services, excellent senior services, and top-notch recreational programs for all ages. Come visit, and learn why people from all over the world have come to call Fairhope home. We’re a great hometown for all ages – and newcomers are always welcomed.”

Lunch:

We stopped for lunch at the recommended Panini Petes, a local cafe and bakery in the downtown French Quarter area. J and I had also seen Panini Petes when it was featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives. Seated in a quaint courtyard, both our paninis were scrumptious. I devoured the House Roasted & Medium Rare Roast Beef(sliced thin with gorgonzola spread, onion confit, tomato, baby greens and Dijon on ciabatta). Jeff enjoyed the Rosemary Chicken(with baby greens, tomato and goat cheese boursin on fresh baked multi-grain bread).

Strolling through Shops:

Though we strolled through numerous shops along our short “tour” of downtown Fairhope, I’d like to show you photos of two of my favorite shops there. I took these pics with my iPhone so forgive the quality of the photographs.

Boxwood Home & Garden (Check out the facebook page: Click Here!)

All of you know I could not resist this shop as it shares a common name with my most favorite Atlanta staple, Boxwoods Gardens & Gifts.

Boxwood features great antiques and accessories set in various rooms. The vignettes are to die for. I could have purchased so much.

Villa Decor (Check out the facebook page: Click Here!)

“Villa Decor offers the finest collection of hand woven oriental rugs on the Gulf Coast. We specialize in Pakistani, Persian, Oushak, Antique and contemporary rugs. Each piece is hand selected by the owner, Shea Dunigan. Our inventory consists of very unique patterns and colors.
We also offer a variety of fine furniture,lighting,mirrors,paintings,pillows and accessories.”

 

I left with a Nest Beach candle. Check out my blog on Wednesday for a new installment of Scentsational Scoop. I will feature this summery candle by Nest.

I’m certain there are more fabulous shops, but I will have to relish in these on my next promised visit to Fairhope. J says we will be back real soon to stay a night or two. I can hardly wait.

Have you been to Fairhope or Point Clear? Any favorite suggestions? Where to stay? Where to eat? Where to shop?  Do share!

I fell for Fairhope, y’all!