Unexpected luxury and elegance in a small town of slightly less than 500 (2019 estimate), Conner House is an absolute gem for anyone seeking refuge from urban hustle and bustle. Our experience was pristine from the very first call to Connie, the owner, to the moment our visit was concluded. Knowing that we would be weary after several days travel by auto, we wanted a place to simply relax and rejuvenate prior to pressing on. Connor House seemed just the location and we weren't disappointed.
After reserving, we had a question about the features of the two rooms under consideration, one that we'd reserved and the other a possible contender. Upon contacting Connie, our questions were courteously answered, which affirmed our choice. Connie later contacted us in advance of our arrival to inquire of any special dietary considerations and our preferences for breakfast. In fact, we did have one dietary issue, which was courteously and satisfactorily addressed, in addition to honoring a preference. Tina, the breakfast chef and much more (a great source of information and delightful breakfast conversationalist) prepared for us what can only be described as a gourmet start to each day of our stay, gave advice on the area and its history, and engaged us in insightful conversation. never one to intrude inappropriately, she was a vibrant start to our days.
Connie met us directly upon our arrival. She provided ample insights into the historical sites and some basic information, such as how to get to the ferry across the Mississippi River to St. Genevieve and why we might enjoy making the short journey. (We did!) It was clear by her expressions of concern that our comfort and convenience was her utmost concern. We got a tour of the house, a nicely restored and meticulously preserved mansion that has an interesting and somewhat colorful history.
Even though Connie had a commitment the evening of our arrival and another then next day, she was careful to ensure comfort and it was obvious to us that she had coordinated with Tina to avoid any lapses in service. We felt as if our every whim was taken into consideration.
As mentioned above, Prairie du Roches is a very small village. As such, it presents a departure from urban existence that cannot be fully described, but must be experienced instead. Nestled into a picturesque niche in the Mississippi River escarpment created by the erosion of the surrounding limestone strata formed by the ancient seabed, it reminded us of an ancient European hamlet, which isn't too far from reality since it was founded by French settlers in 1722 and it still retains some of that old world charm without the artifice that so many 'reenactments' seem to paper over reality.
Our several ventures into conversations with some of the local residents were warmly received. Though it must have been obvious to them that we were not 'small town people,' they engaged us genuinely and openly, unlike the suspicion one often encounters when approaching people in larger communities. Where can you travel that will allow you to walk down the center of the street in the evening, find people waving as you go by and have someone you've only briefly met on one previous occasion stop her car to chat with you for 20 minutes?
If there was anything that might be considered a minor 'fly in the ointment,' it might have been that at least one train passes over the tracks at the edge of the village each hour. We found it to be rather entertaining and somewhat reassuring to hear the train whistle in the middle of the night and all through the day. We suppose that there may be a few extremely light sleepers who might find it to be intrusive. We did not.
Would we stay at Connor House again? Absolutely, in a heartbeat. We were only there two nights this time, however we've already discussed the possibility of returning at some future date for a longer stay - possibly 4 or 5 days if we can find an excuse - as if we would need one... Staying at Connor House is excuse enough!
Our advice: Find an excuse to get off I-55 and cross the Mississippi, whether by driving out of St. Louis or taking the ferry from "St. Gen," as we heard Tina refer to St. Genevieve, MO and slow down your life for as long as you can. And, if possible, take an extra day, because you're going to regret leaving, much as we did. You'll notice your heart rate has slowed and your blood pressure has dropped as you depart. Worth the slight route diversion and more...! read more