Need a break? The perfect escape is Southern Delaware, filled with seaside towns, historic villages and year-round festivals and events.  I headed to Rehoboth Beach and checked in at the gorgeous, upscale Bellmoor Inn.  Located just two blocks from the beach and boardwalk, this quaint Inn and Spa is a true find.  The first-class service, spacious rooms and complimentary gourmet
breakfast and afternoon tea all add up to a wonderful experience.  Dine outside by the gorgeous gardens for a tranquil start to your day. The Bellmoor Inn offers the privacy of a small hotel, yet is very close to boutiques, award winning restaurants, antique shops and of course, the beach and boardwalk.   (www.TheBellmoor.com)

Located within a few miles of Rehoboth, is the picturesque town of Lewes. I visited Lewes and strolled around the town filled with museums, adorable shops, historic inns, eateries and art galleries.  The Peninsula Gallery, (www.peninsula-gallery.com), represents some of the finest local and regional artists in all mediums.  The exhibitions change monthly and the owners were very friendly and eager to offer information on their lovely town.  I loved perusing the shops and chatting with the friendly shop owners offering a wide variety of unusual and rare finds.  

Enjoyed a an iced latte at The Zwaanendael Inn's Swan Nest Cafe. This Inn, in the heart of Lewes shopping district, was established in 1926. (www.zwaanendaelinn.com) Lunch was at the divine Buttery Restaurant. (www.butteryrestaurant.com) A dining landmark, in the gallery and shopping district, it is filled with elegance, charm and exquisite cuisine.  Lunch items include appetizers, salads, sandwiches and Buttery specialties.  I sampled their slightly spicy, thai, coconut jasmine rice and chicken soup.  I then enjoyed the salad sampler and had my choice of three different salads, including a shrimp salad, a tomato and mozzarella salad and a chicken salad. The dinner menu features a more formal atmosphere and menu selection, including Lobster, Sea Bass and Beef Tenderloin. After lunch, I headed across street to the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
featuring more than 300 varieties of chocolate confections. I was delighted when I was offered a spoonful of milk chocolate being prepared to coat their famous chocolate pretzels; yum!
(www. sweetfranchise.com)

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Nassau Valley Vineyards, Delaware's only Winery.  Located in Lewes, Proprietor, Peg Raley, offered delicious wine sampling and I decided on a bottle of her Delaware White Wine.  There are concerts and special events held their frequently, call (302) 645-9463 for more information.  If beer is your choice of beverage, then head to the Dogfish Head Brewings and Eats in Rehoboth.  The first brewpub and distillery in the
first state! Call for brewery tour schedule 1-888-8DOGFISH. Also offered at Dogfish is delicious wood grilled Salmon, Rockfish, Pizzas and other savory selections.

In the evening, I headed to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal for a sail on the Tall Ship the Kalmar Nyckel.  This is a gorgeous replica of the tall ship that brought the first Swedish settlers to the Delaware River Valley in 1638.   The ship sails on a three-hour tour out of the Lewes Ferry terminal and is a fun learning experience for the entire family.  Enjoyed watching the sunset and
dolphins swim by on our voyage, a very memorable evening. Visit their website for departure times at www.KalNyc.org . Why not try the Ferry Boat, as well? The Cape May-Lewes Ferry operates between Cape May, NJ and Lewes, Delaware daily and you may bring your automobile on board or walk-on for the 80 minute one-way journey. Check www.capemaylewesferry.com for schedule.
While in Southern Delaware, some other fine restaurants to check out include The Lighthouse, which is known for its "fresh from the boat" seafood and "a view to dine for." (302- 645-6271).Striper Bites, a bistro, is another excellent choice.  (www.striper bites.com)

Located on Bethany Beach, Mango's, was one of my favorites. With a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean, a signature frozen drink and the island style.. is a perfect way to end the day.   The Coconut Shrimp were scrumptious and the Grilled Tuna Teriyaki was heavenly! Check the full menu out at www.MangoMikes.com .  After dinner, walk the boardwalk of Bethany or peruse the charming shops that line the main street.

Be sure to leave time to visit Discover-Sea Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island.  Admission is free to view the many artifacts recovered from the Delmarva coastal area. Collections include coins, weapons, jewelry, pottery, porcelain and more all recovered from sunken ships and all on display.  The Ship Wreck Museum is located above Sea Shell City in Fenwick Island. (www.discoversea.com) So much to do, yet so close to home. Discover Southern Delaware on next getaway. For more information check out www.visitsoutherndelaware.com .