We're no strangers to B&Bs - it's our favourite mode of weekend getaway, and when we booked a room last minute on a long-weekend, we didn't really know what to expect. We even drove right past it the first time - when they say it used to be a church, they aren't kidding.
Marienthal itself is three different pieces - the church is absolutely beautiful, and has been converted into a large reception hall. Behind the church is a beautiful little patio with a fireplace where we were able to have breakfast the next day. The parsonage next door was renovated into a number of guest rooms - the room we were originally in was the smallest of them, but had a beautiful attached bathroom, TV and was still plenty of room for two people. Lastly, there was a building (which I believed housed nuns originally), that has been converted into a bit of a retreat centre. There were a half-dozen or so double rooms with a full kitchen upstairs, and a large meeting area downstairs with another great kitchen, big screen TV with satellite, and lots of couches. We even had access to a great little jacuzzi in the back.
This place is an absolute gem in the middle of nowhere. There's a little grill next door if you want to grab some food, but otherwise there is almost nothing in the immediate vicinity. You can drive about half an hour if you're looking for things to do, but if you really want to just get away in peace and quiet, where you know you won't be disturbed, this is absolutely the place to do it.
Location and buildings aside, the hosts are really what makes this place special. Both of them go way out of their way to be accommodating. Louise's breakfast was very likely the best breakfast I've ever had in my life. Homemade apple turnovers, local sausages, and the fluffiest, cottage-cheese pancakes that still make my mouth water. And Vinnie is a very entertaining fellow to talk to - he has absolutely no shortage of hilarious stories to tell. The two of them were great to have as hosts.
The next time we need a quiet getaway, there's zero doubt about where we'll end up. read more