Since opening in 1972, the Old Orchard Inn in Nova Scotia’s picturesque Annapolis Valley has been open year round and every day for 50-plus years says Sally Wallace, co-owner with her husband Bill. “We have a reputation in hospitality to uphold.”

Indeed, they do. Over the past half-century, the Inn has become a fixture of the province’s hospitality landscape. To say that it offers “a room with a view” would be an understatement.

Referring to her late father-in-law, and founder, Don’s vision (he was an architect as well as hotelier), Wallace says, “Old Orchard Inn was inspired by nature’s awe and beauty and this is reflected in all we do in hospitality. We are that unique family-owned and operated country inn with an awe-inspiring vista, accent of hand-hewn beams, a majestic fireplace, and a family of staff to welcome all.”

That sentiment is reflected in the year-round physical amenities, which include: 100 guest rooms, 29 rustic cabins, drive-up units, balconies, patios, parlours with views of the Bay of Fundy, a swimming pool, a spa, and one of the finest restaurants in the area.

But it’s also in the approach to customer service among the Inn’s experienced and skilled employees. Says Wallace: “Our staff—some who’ve been here for over 30 years—know to treat guests as family. Over the course of time, we’ve had multiple generations of families stay with us that have become a tradition. Our staff family are fully empowered to assist our guests.”

The Inn offers a total of over 12,000 square feet of conference space suitable for everything from weddings and family gatherings to large-scale corporate events. It hosts a heritage barn, which can accommodate 200 people at a time. This year, it will install a large scale solar-panel system to reduce its carbon footprint by 15 per cent.

It all comes down to commitment, Wallace says. That’s how reputations for excellence are built, year after year.