We looked forward to private game drives with Dean Wilkinson, our erudite ranger. His descriptions and explanations deepened our understanding of wildlife at the reserve. We especially liked his emphasis on high quality sightings that took into account animal behavior and environmental conditions, and that he angled the vehicle for optimal viewing and photography.
The Jefferson was built by a Richmond importer, Lewis Ginter, who lost his first fortune during the Civil War, after serving as a major in the Confederate Army. He moved to New York, where he became rich again through banking, but lost most of his assets during a recession. At age 50, he returned to Richmond and made more millions in tobacco, sold the company, and entered real estate. He traveled the world and brought back art he planned to place in a new hotel.
Should I find myself in the vicinity of Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in the future I hope to return at the first opportunity.
We also liked the modern sunlit lobby with a glass roof and equally modern rooms with natural light, artistic touch, amenities, friendly staff and gourmet restaurant. Should we return to the area La Demeure du Parc would be at the top of our list.
