Anne Craven
Hotel Bentley in Alexandria.
What is it you travel for? Amazing food? Scenic views? Retail therapy? Fun? Whatever your excuse for a getaway, Central Louisiana provides an excellent escape, offering all the best dining, nature, shopping, recreation, and more.
Seated on opposite banks of the Red River, Alexandria and Pineville comprise what many consider to be the “heart of Louisiana”. Their location makes for not only lovely river views, but the area also offers rolling hills and towering pines that will take any nature enthusiast’s breath away. This geography also offers prime real estate for some of the most highly-regarded golf courses in the state. OakWing Golf Club has been lauded even by PGA professionals, and Links on the Bayou was rated the best municipal golf course in Louisiana by Golf Digest in 2009; so whether you’re impressing a client or simply putting off some steam, ample options are available for golfing in Alexandria.
A historically rich area, central Louisiana is also home to some of the most extensive and diverse antique shopping to be found. While Alexandria offers several options for antiquing, the nearby town of Glenmora, LA is a literal treasure trove; with multiple flea markets located on the main street of town alone.
And, because eating is always a top priority on vacation, high-quality and varied dining can also be found in central LA. From fresh and delicious home cooking in a comforting and cozy atmosphere at Word of Mouth Cafe, to upscale and elegant Louisiana seafood in the refined setting of the Hotel Bentley, central Louisiana is certain to offer a taste suited to any palate.
