Give the Gift of Travel for the Holidays

Have a tricky person to buy for on your holiday gift list?

Think outside the box this year and give the gift of travel.

Be creative with gift certificates and create an escape to southwest Illinois that includes dining experiences and a packaged overnight stay.

The Great Rivers & Routes region, just minutes from St. Louis in southwest Illinois, is full of delightful guest houses, bed and breakfast inns and hotels that provide the perfect backdrop for an escape from daily routines. And really, who wouldn't appreciate, or need, a getaway like that!

Want a stay with great views of the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers? What about a rustic, rural retreat? Let your imagination be your guide as you put together the perfect vacation plan for friends and family.

Here are just a few getaway deals that would make great holiday gifts.

Tara Point Inn & Cottages, Grafton

High on the bluffs above the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers sits Tara Point Inn & Cottages. With commanding views of the river and the riverfront community of Grafton, Tara Point has eight cottage suites and main house guest suites for overnight stays.

Tara Point offers guests the amenities of an Inn while staying in one of the Riverside rooms or Delta Queen suite. Additionally, there are eight guest cottage suites.

Tara Point's Winter Getaway Special runs Dec. 1 through April 30. Book a Sunday, Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday night, and stay the following night at no charge. Excludes Fridays, Saturdays and holidays.

The Farmhouse Loft, Carrollton

Get away from it all on Carollton's historic square in Greene County with a stay at The Farmhouse Loft. The vacation rental blends a rustic farmhouse style with modern comfort and amenities. The two-bedroom, one bath loft apartment has a full kitchen with appliances and a comfy living area. Stop in at the nearby Copper Stills & Mash for coffee, breakfast, lunch or nightcap.

The Lakehouse By Historic Red Rooster, Hillsboro, IL

Take a deep breath and relax at The Lakehouse guest house in Hillsboro. This overnight stay has tranquil views of Lake Hillsboro amid a peaceful rural setting. The larger unit features 2 bedrooms with queen beds, a dining area and a living room seating area. The studio unit features a full-size bed, small seating area, small dining area and a kitchenette. Get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Enjoy walks along the lakefront, cookouts and more.

The historic Red Rooster Inn - built in 1902 - welcomes guests to a magical stay in the heart of Hillsboro. Each room is well-appointed with luxury linens, locally crafted decor and convenient amenities.

Residences are also available for Hillsboro's guests. Email historicredrooster@icloud.com or call 217-851-5813 for availability.

Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast

Find your next travel gift getaway in the historic river town of Elsah. Nestled between the bluffs along the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, the entire community is listed on the National Register of Historic places. The Green Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast, conveniently located in the center of the village, offers charming overnights capped off with a full service breakfast and afternoon snacks. Guests can also use the bicycles on hand at the inn to explore the town. Gift your family or friends a stay at the Green Tree Inn.