What a wonderful night’s stay we had at Hellman Guest House - and though our stay was a serendipitous accident (we had booked a four day honeymoon stay in the Abbey's High Street bed and breakfast across the street, but no one was home to let us in), it was remarkably enjoyable. We are very thankful we stayed here, because it
was our first time in a bed and breakfast, and our experience at Abbey's later that week turned into a nightmare (See our August 2006 review of Abbey's High Street for more). We therefore had a very good
first impression of what staying in a b and b could be like, and why
so many people choose to do so.

The owner and hostess Rita Wadman greeted us at the door, and showed us a room that was truly lovely, large, and had a wonderful view of the beautiful hills of the Galena countryside out its windows. The bathroom in this room had a large shower, ample space elsewhere, and a balcony window with another spectacular view outdoors.

We took a tour of the house after we had made ourselves comfortable, and took a peek in the other three lovely upstairs bedrooms, which had no guests staying in them at the time, as it was a Sunday night. What really caught my eye throughout the house are the lovely period details that set this 19th century mansion apart from some of its more modernized neighbors.

After a very restful night of sleep, Rita was our engaging hostess at breakfast. We thoroughly enjoyed our conversation with her as we ate the delicious, and healthy breakfast of crepes, fresh sliced fruit, juice, and coffee she had so carefully prepared, and tastefully served - complete with crystal, fine china, and candlelight. Rita was also very helpful, and obliging when we asked her for directions before we left.

Still later, Rita was generous with her assistance when our stay at Abbey's during the rest of the week turned horribly sour. Our conversation with her on the spacious, and charmingly furnished veranda was really peaceful, and the view was truly beautiful all around the house, especially since Rita had done much to brighten up the surrounding garden.

All in all, our one night stay at this bed and breakfast was wonderful, and my husband and I will be sure to stay there whenever we are in the Galena area for a visit.