Adults-Only Inn ‘For Women, By Women’ Gives Nod to Downton Abbey

We are very excited to announce a new adults-only women’s inn in Northampton, Massachusetts, located in the heart of the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. Downton Valley™, an inn “for women, by women,” is just 10 minutes from downtown Northampton. It boasts a rainbow crosswalk in the center of town and was named ‘Lesbianville USA,’ back in the 90s. Now that our four children are grown, my wife Bonnie and I want to share the love of our amazing home with other women.

While the climate of LGBTQ+ acceptance over the last couple of decades has shown a slow, positive change, there has been a huge decrease in the number of lesbian bars and spaces. We believe it is vital to maintain a lesbian space where women can feel safe and comfortable to be completely themselves. So, we spent the last 18 months converting our home into this luxurious inn. Downton Valley™ is a remarkable haven that serves all women who want to vacation and be their true authentic selves. We are also a trans-inclusive home.

I am a retired NYPD Lieutenant and currently a partner and practicing attorney at Olin Lippiello LLP. While I love the practice of law and do not plan to give that up, I also recognize the need to create more space for us. Bonnie and I built an amazing home, and we want to share it with the community. Bonnie is a gifted local artist, and we showcase her work throughout the inn. Many of her original pieces line the walls, with plenty of opportunities to purchase prints or hire her for commission. Her aesthetic sense and love of color enhance the inn’s beauty. Although she loves to meet new people when she travels, she never wants to leave our unique oasis. So now, she says, “Let’s have the travelers come to us!”

Bonnie and I often remark to each other that we feel like we live in a vacation home. Built in 2018, the 6,000 square foot home is lined with windows to optimize the panoramic view of the valley and mountains. And, the sunrises, can be quite breathtaking. The interior of the spacious, yet cozy, contemporary home was designed with luxury in mind, and we paid great attention to detail. Our love of the show “Downton Abbey,” inspired us to name our Inn, Downton Valley™. There are nods to the show for fans sprinkled throughout the inn.

Both the indoor and outdoor amenities of Downton Valley™ allow for the optimal getaway. We have an outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, a large front deck with panoramic views, a jacuzzi, two outdoor fire pits, and hiking/snowshoeing trails accessible via the backyard. Indoors, one can partake in an exercise pool, a fitness gym, a mindfulness area, a media room, a music/reading room, a game room, and a living room with a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. It is the perfect short-term getaway for the couple or solo traveler seeking a safe space for women.

Also, don’t miss the large sign as you pull into the town’s main parking garage, “Northampton, where the coffee is strong and so are the women.”

Downton Valley™ is open year-round. To learn more, check out our website: Downtonvalley.com or call: (413) 341-6990.