ADVERTISER, Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Beechworth’s only 5 Star Bed and Breakfast has been named the top B&B in Australia in Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice 2013 awards, based on the ratings of people who have stayed at the B&B.
Freeman on Ford was also ranked third in the awards’ South Pacific B&B category.
Owners Heidi Freeman and Jim Didolis were pleased to be recognised as the leader in B&B’s in Australia.
The award describes Freeman on Ford as:
“A beautifully restored house with a wonderful atmosphere. Perfect hosts with delicious cooked breakfasts, afternoon high teas and late night coffees.”
“We are delighted to represent Beechworth on the national stage and thank all our guests who have taken the time to rate us on Trip Advisor,” Heidi Freeman said.
Ms Freeman said she is also very pleased that their efforts to deliver standards of service and facilities which are usually only accessed in city hotels had been valued by guests.
“This award also highlights the quality of accommodation on offer in Beechworth because there are many passionate providers who deliver a high standard of accommodation, which in itself, brings visitors to the town,” she said.
Ms Freeman and Mr Didolis renovated the historic two-storey brick building which fronts Ford Street in Beechworth over two years, first opening the doors as a bed and breakfast in November 2003.
Freeman on Ford has held its 5 Star rating since 2005.
More recently Ms Freeman and Mr Didolis completed the renovation of the downstairs addition to the original building, which dated to the 1930s. This extension includes a private swimming pool and spa, three new bedrooms, a commercial kitchen, lounge room, an extended dining room and undercover parking.
“We have a passion for bringing visitors to Beechworth and a passion for history and have spent years restoring this building in keeping with the eras,” Ms Freeman said.
Freeman on Ford has taken out numerous heritage awards for the building’s restoration and has also been a leader in environmentally conscious policies within their business, having been the only Eco Friendly accredited Bed and Breakfast in Beechworth for many years. This accreditation is rated by AAA Tourism and involves the business adhering to numerous environmentally conscious practices.
Freeman on Ford Bed and Breakfast has four Victorian era rooms upstairs and features three 1930s classic rooms overlooking the new swimming pool and spa in a landscaped private garden.
To view the Trip Advisor award details go to: TripAdvisor