Holiday B&B tour Sunday

The North Idaho Bed and Breakfast Association will host its 17th annual hyoliday tour Sunday. “It’s kind of a huge open house,” said this year’s chairperson, Shar Scott. The event is free and open to the public.

From Coeur d’Alene, north to Athol and east to Kingston, 19 B&B’s are participating in the tour.

The tour offers a variety of lodgings to explore, from family-friendly farms to luxurious mountainside retreats.

New to the tour this year, “Tranquility Bed and Breakfast,” is nestled in the middle of 23 acres in the Rathdrum area. Owners Jo and Don Teske built the home themselves and opened the inn this past April. The five guestrooms have a variety of themes from nautical to Polynesian, reflecting the owners’ passion for travel.

Another featured inn, the Kingston 5 Ranch Bed and Breakfast, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts as well as those seeking a quiet getaway. Located in Idaho’s Silver Valley, new owners Chris and Kris Kostas have fully restored this New England-style 1930’s farmhouse.

Each suite has its own fireplace, whirlpool bath and outdoor Jacuzzi. The inn has modern amenities like wireless Internet and flat screen TV’s as well as a place to board horses or park an RV.

Scott says proprietors of bed and breakfast establishments delight in pampering guests and paying special attention to detail. Many participating B&B’s offer refreshments and special packages during the tour. “It’s our way to share the holiday spirit,” she said.