The charm of a bed and breakfast, the elegance of a luxuriant inn, and the tropical beauty of yesteryear's Florida seamlessly merge to create the elite lodging experience you'll enjoy at the one-of-its-kind Sabal Palm House, awarded Four Diamonds by AAA.

Built in 1936, this historic and distinctive two-story home sits directly across from the Intracoastal Waterway. A bridge links the property to a gorgeous stretch of Atlantic-washed beaches. Lake Worth, an area known for its antique shops, art galleries, regional theater, and unique eateries, is well within walking distance.

Robert Tolf of the Fort Lauderdale News/Sun Sentinel recently put Sabal at the head of its class. "If there is a more thoughtfully assembled and immaculately maintained inn in the state, I haven't seen it," he wrote.

Lodging accommodations include six guest rooms and one two-bedroom suite. Each guestroom has a private bath and French doors that open onto a covered private balcony. Two of the accommodations feature Jacuzzi tubs, and all guest quarters are appointed with antique furniture and oil, lithograph, and watercolor reproductions by such master artists as Renoir, Degas, Dali, Chagall, Rockwell, and Michelangelo. One suite is pet friendly.

During the home's renovation, great care was taken in maintaining the architectural integrity. High, molded ceilings underscore a refined Sabal ambience that is further defined by oakwood floors whose very sheen reflect tropical Florida's old-world heritage. Piped-in classical music sets the mood in an exquisite parlor as it does amidst the gentle breezes that caress Sabal's tropical courtyard. Other subtle but difference-making touches include designer towels, luxury linens, and posh toiletries, plus fresh flowers everywhere.

In the time-honored tradition of Europe's finest inns, Sabal Palm House offers a nightly turn-down service and a concierge desk dedicated to making your stay hassle-free. Concierge services include everything from making dinner reservations to securing tickets for area events to setting up tee times and making sure there's a masseuse to soothe whatever muscles might ail you after an active day.

You can enjoy Sabal's sumptuous gourmet breakfast in one of the inn's dining rooms or outside in the courtyard. Tea and sweets will invite you back to the dining area midday, and later in the afternoon, you'll want to partake Sabal's complimentary wine and cheese.

Nearby downtown Lake Worth provides you myriad options for lunch and dinner, and you'll be just ten minutes from all the great restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues that line Worth Avenue in Palm Beach and Clematis Street in West Palm Beach.

If you're into jogging, cycling, or skating, you'll want to head out to the popular Lake Trail in Palm Beach, and those who dream of hooking a "big one" might check with the concierge desk about chartering a deep-sea schooner. There's also some excellent golf courses and tennis facilities nearby, and dinner clubs and theater.