If you're looking for the right place, this is it!
It's the right place for quiet, cleanliness, style and comfort (and an amazing breakfast!). Architect Shawn Dolley (and his brother) are transforming a turn-of-the-century church into a lovely haven.
So it's also the right place for those who appreciate a work in progress. The restoration has been well thought-out. The pressed tin walls & ceilings, stained glass windows, original woodwork in the open spaces, and cleverly repurposed antiques all meld nicely with the clean lines of modern amenities. The historical photos, curated by Shawn and the local librarian, have been blown up onto large canvases, offering a visual connection to Gardiner's past.
Our room (#4) was very comfortable with everything one would normally need: fridge, microwave, bar sink, double bathroom vanity (as well as two comfy couches, coffee & side tables and large-screen TV with cable).
In the bathroom, for you water-conscious folks (isn't that everyone?), there's a dual flush toilet and dual flow showerhead. A cleverly backlit (in blue!) trim of glass tiles provides a discreet nightlight. Shawn has made his own very nice soap and provides a lovely scented shampoo and conditioner (I know it's a small detail, but we've been tenting for a week!). Towels are thick & thirsty cotton.
The bed was really comfy, with Swedish-style crisp white cotton duvet cover and more-than-ample pillows. Night tables on either side for easy-to-reach lamp, glasses, phone...
Then there's the aforementioned amazing breakfast! This is a breakfast that will carry you to dinner (so is it really a 'bed and brunch'?): we each had delicious coffee, fresh fruit, homemade ton-of-blueberry muffins; my husband had the biggest damn french toast you ever saw (Texas ain't got nothin' on these - and they were moist, not bready) with real maple syrup; I had thick-cut smoked bacon, and 3 eggs! All cooked to perfection by the architect himself!
Finally, there's Shawn himself, a guy with a dream and a mission, and the talents and convictions to pull it off. Gardiner has a great past, and there could be a great future. A native Mainer, he's interesting on many levels.
So forget Freeport, and take 95 inland to visit the historically rich college towns of Lewiston and Waterville, and stay halfway in between in Gardiner, here at the Stone Turret, because this is the right place! read more