So having traveled frequently to Nashville, Tennessee to visit family, we’ve taken many routes to avoid going through Atlanta traffic! And having made a commitment not to drive more than 6 hours/day, we’ve often sought out alternatives. 

So our first day took us from Orlando to the tiny town of Maxeys, Georgia (population 399) concluding with an overnight stay at the Gillen House Bed and Breakfast. This hidden gem just east of Athens is a real find! 

But first, let’s talk about the history of this very quiet town. Established in 1834, Maxeys was first known as Shanty, then as Salmonsville. It was eventually named in honor of Jesse Maxey, a landowner on who’s property the town had developed. The Georgia Rail Road Company built a railroad line in 1841 that ran from Athens to Union Point running through the then named Shantytown, so named because of the “shanty’s” along the line where the train would stop. 

Jesse Maxey had initially encouraged the railroad to come through the area by giving land for the right of way. The town was incorporated in 1907, and was a booming cotton town during the early 1900’s due to the healthy agricultural economy and pioneering spirit of the people of that time. 

This rural, very laid-back community is about 30 minutes east of Athens, about 90 minutes from Atlanta, and just over an hour west of Augusta. It’s also  about 45 minutes north of Lake Oconee. So a day trip to any of these destinations is quite doable, and a return to the inn is an absolute perfect way to unwind and decompress at the end of your excursions. 

For outdoor enthusiasts,there is a paved hiking/biking trail just across the road, so a walk, run or ride are easily achievable during your stay. But let’s talk about about the hidden treasure of Maxeys…the Gillen House. 

Proprietors Cynzia and Edward are the most gracious and fun hosts. And bonus…they are both very accomplished artists. So their works are displayed throughout the inn and on the property.  Edward’s passion is repurposing found objects, and Cynzia is an incredible painter. So prior to departure, I insisted on photographing them with one of their favorite pieces. 

The property sits on two acres of land, that front a woods. So there is seclusion without isolation as the main road is in front of the inn. On property are so many places to sit and relax while getting acquainted with Binx, Monday, Ricky Bobby and Waffles, the resident cats. But you’ll also get to meet Petro the turtle. He lives in the beautiful pond adjacent to the patio, and appears daily to greet visitors and pose for photos along with the numerous goldfish that call it home. 

The inn has four guest rooms and each one are beautiful and quite spacious. Along with a wrap-around porch, second floor screened patio, dining and living rooms there is ample room to explore or just sit and relax. 

Breakfast is included in your stay, along with coffee, cold beverages and snacks. However, if you do want to enjoy some wine, be sure to pick up some along the way as there is no alcohol available on sight. 

To learn more about this stunning inn, be sure to visit their website at: www.gillenhousebandb.com This was a beautiful surprise to begin Road Trip 2022.