Now that summer travel plans are in the works…we thought it might be wise to make a suggestion for a little getaway that the fellas would appreciate… 
Last summer, one belle had her delicate little arm twisted to go on a fly-fishing trip with her “reason for living” (aka…husband…who thinks fly fishin’ is fun). Now, a belle will pack her bags in a heartbeat for a good shoppin’ trip, but this one took some thought.
The fella did some talking about the great food, wine, scenery, and overall hospitality of the ranch he has visited many times…and finally got a yes. This belle was not disappointed!
The accommodations…Madison Valley Ranch in Ennis, Montana. Named the 2015 Orvis Fly-Fishing Ranch of the Year, this place just can’t be beat! From the friendly greeting (thanks to hospitality guru, Elizabeth) to the cozy cabins to the gourmet meals…this is the place to “escape the hectic pace of everyday life and indulge in a luxury adventure.”
Serene doesn’t even come close to describing the vibe
…and we weren’t the only ones enjoying the peace & quiet
Days start early, but the view – and the bacon – are worth the crack-of-dawn wake-up
On the day that this belle agreed to fish, a friendly, professional, local guide whisked the two of us away to the river and did practically everything but catch the fish for us. Their daily float or wade trips with experienced, Orvis-endorsed guides, mean that you are just a “cast away” from the finest fly-fishing experience ever!
…and did we catch ’em!! (This was a bit of beginner’s luck, but a belle will take what she gets…and will always be a good sport when she is forced to actually hold the “prize”)
And the fish kept biting!
After a full day on the river, cocktails on the porch with lively conversation, and a gourmet dinner prepared at the ranch and served family-style, it was nice to take a little sunset stroll.
Each day can be more of the same…eat, fish, sleep…or you can do some exploring on your own…some suggestions:
…for a taste of the Old West
Quake Lake…just a bit south of the ranch… 
Beautiful…and haunting!
Because we kinda dig bourbon…
Willie’s Distillery was an excellent way to while away an afternoon. As a side-note…because this belle is all about her bourbon…we introduced the guests at the ranch to the “Madison Mule” one evening during the cocktail hour. Using the local Willie’s bourbon with a sharp ginger beer and a twist of lime, we had a real belle-ringer. Word is they are still serving up the Madison Mule with regularity!
And we know we mentioned the food…but take a gander at the possibilities with these sample menus: 
’nuff said. Book it, belles. The fella will love ya for it!!
a&a
the RARE belle 