Let’s move to Northern Scotland to open a restaurant and art Gallery in the wonderful town of Dornoch! That was our direction in late 2017 and early 2018. The process was underway to completely change course and embark on a great adventure in a foreign country! Change. The most constant occurrence in our lives. It […]
About Gillen House B&B
Take a ride in the slow lane
The Gillen House Bed and Breakfast opened in April 2019 as a place to relax and escape from the everyday routine of life. Offering four comfortable guest rooms, with full en-suite bathrooms each appointed with comfortable furniture, relaxed colors, and wonderful artwork. When you stay at the Gillen House, a gourmet breakfast is included, and each day allows for new menu offerings. Evening dining may be arranged by request when making your reservation.
The property consists of 2 acres of grounds with a manicured lawn and extensive flower gardens, a pecan orchard, a vegetable & herb garden, a turtle pond, a bocce ball court, and a golf putting and chipping green. Relaxing on the property is easy with many spaces to prop up your feet and enjoy the country pace. The back patio with the sounds of the waterfall or the upstairs screen porch to take in a wonderful sunset are some of our guests’ favorites. Located in Maxeys Georgia, the Gillen House B&B is a short drive east of Athens. In addition to the enjoyment of the house and property, there are many great things to explore in and around the area.
Proprietors & Staff
Cynzia Sanchez and Edward Toledano had a vision of creating a place to slow down, relax, breathe, and be in the moment. Discovering the beautiful home located in Maxeys, Georgia, they embarked on the creative adventure called the Gillen House Bed and Breakfast.
Escaping the big city of Atlanta and all that that comes with living in a place with eight million other people, they were both ready to make a lifestyle change. Cynzia was co-owner of a successful moving company that has been in business 30 years, and Edward had a marketing and sales career that spanned 25 years. They both desired a life of creative living and enjoyment of being with others and they took the plunge having created an oasis in the country of east Georgia.
Cynzia is an accomplished artist, with a Master of Fine Arts Degree from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and an Architectural Degree from Georgia Tech. Her creative needs were not being met in the city, and a country escape to allow her to pursue art career is a main reason for the opening of the Gillen House. She now has her studio in the house and also displays her work throughout the house as her Gallery.
Edward has a creative focus in art as well. His work is mainly photography and art made with found objects. Additionally, his love of the outdoors and landscape architecture was a draw to the wonderful piece of land with mature plants and trees.
We have four wonderful cats who are on property. Waffles(17), Ricky Bobby (3) and Binx (5) and Monday (2). They stay in our quarters or outside, and they all would most likely allow for a few pets and rubs.
Cynzia and Edward both have the desire to share their home with friends and guests, while having the opportunity to be a part of a community that is welcoming and caring. They invite everyone to come and Enjoy the SlowLane for a while.
Affiliations
The Gillen House is proud to be affiliated with prestigious organizations and businesses that share our commitment to excellence and community engagement. As a distinguished member of Select Registry Distinguished Inns of North America, we stand as part of an exclusive group dedicated to upholding the highest standards in the bed and breakfast industry. Our support extends beyond our walls, as we actively contribute to our community by endorsing the annual parade and sponsoring the Rails to Trails Firefly Bike Trail—a 40-mile bike and walk path where we proudly serve as the midpoint. Furthering our local ties, we are deeply involved in Oglethorpe County, a community we are honored to support and be a part of. Additionally, as a founding member of the Women’s Art Guild of Oglethorpe County, we celebrate the vibrant arts scene in our region. Our commitment to fostering connections extends to the Chamber of Commerce, and through Cynzia Sanchez Studios, we showcase the fusion of artwork and architectural design, creating a unique and enriching experience for our guests.
Cynzia Sanchez – Portrait Artist
Sanchez’s artistic prowess seamlessly navigates the realms of contemporary realism, skillfully oscillating between portraiture and the abstraction of the human form. In her nuanced exploration of diverse subjects, Cynzia’s portfolio encapsulates the breadth of human and animal experiences. In portraiture, she endeavors to encapsulate the very essence of the soul, whether it be human or animal. When delving into landscapes, Cynzia’s artistic inclination leans towards simplification, acknowledging the inherent perfection of nature. As a mother, she has acquired the delicate art of balance, and as a woman, she delves into the intricacies of societal expectations, investigating the psychology behind the transformation of self to conform. To witness the captivating spectrum of Cynzia’s artistic expression, visit her gallery at www.cynziasanchez.net.
History of the Gillen House
In 1838, at the age of 20, Andrew Gillen Sr. came to America from Ireland and settled in Pennsylvania for two years, then moved to Penfield, Greene County, Georgia in 1840. He was a drainer by trade, having learned that profession in Ireland. He was a Catholic when he came to Georgia but soon after arriving joined the Baptist church. Sometime around 1850 he moved to Oglethorpe County, planting his family’s roots in Maxeys, Georgia. The Gillens have been connected with the business life of Maxeys and its vicinity almost since the formation of the town. Gillen Sr. acquired many acres of land and became a well-to-do planter. One remarkable thing about his life is that he never entered a courthouse – as he didn’t believe in court – thinking it was not right that everybody should obey the law. He married Elizabeth J. Tuggle in 1852 and had four children; Samuel Thomas, Patrick H, Andrew J, Franklin D.
Andrew J.Gillen Jr. – Builder of the Gillen House in 1920
Andrew J. Gillen Jr. was born in Maxeys in 1862. He was one of the leading merchants in town. He promoted the development of Maxeys by selling lots and building homes to attract new settlers. He established a large department store known as The Gillen Department Store, carrying a full line of ready-to-wear, shoes, and millinery, in addition to all kinds of farm equipment. He served for several years on the county Board of Education.
Check out our personalized blog!
Looking for the best place to stay in the Maxeys, Athens area? See what our previous guests say!
Lexi & Silas2023-11-06Our stay was amazing!! Edward and Cynzia (and their kitties) are the best hosts and wonderful people! Will be staying here again :)
Owen Jones2023-10-10Where to start? I stayed here with 3 friends for a night of cards, beers and laughter before heading to Durhamtown off-road resort the next morning. Our hosts, Edward and Cynzia were very responsive via email and were there to greet us upon arrival, which was early! Our rooms were all ready and, after a brief tour and history of the building, we were shown to our rooms. The rooms are all different, decorated with a nod to the original style but with a modern twist. The bathrooms and showers are all modern and beautiful. The beds are FANTASTIC! Very comfortable indeed. I had booked dinner there and it was all cooked to perfection and enjoyed with our hosts in the dining room. Plenty of attention to detail made this meal a very welcome and enjoyable one. The entire house is riddled with artwork by the very talented Cynzia and it was a joy to see something very different than the usual prints you see at a B&B. There has been much effort put in to restoring this old house and it shows. No detail too small and the grounds are also a fantastic place to relax, party, putt, eat etc. Edward even delivered us a charcuterie board while we sat outside enjoying the sun. Our entire stay was fabulous and definitely exceeded expectations. They have thought of everything and made sure to let us know that nothing was too much trouble. I’d go back again in a heartbeat. I’d even adjust my plans to “be in the area” so I can stay there again. Thanks for a great stay!
Stephanie Meer2023-09-27Have no worries of booking at Gillen House. The property is immaculate there is not a weed or piece of dust to be found. The house is charming with beautiful woodwork, great decor, large rooms and everything is CLEAN and COMFORTABLE including the sheets. The food is wonderful an the hosts are lovely. Book with confidence.
Kara Smith2023-06-06My husband and I stayed at the Gillen House Bed and Breakfast to celebrate our anniversary. The property is beautiful, both inside and out. Rooms are large and lovingly decorated in unique artwork, primarily by the owners, as both are artists. They did a major renovation to update the main structures and bathrooms but kept the charm of the hundred year old home. After arrival and tour of the home, we enjoyed a delicious dinner al fresco. The bed was comfortable and breakfast was outstanding. Edward and Cynzia's hospitality is top notch. We only stayed one night, but left feeling like we were long time friends.
David B2023-05-28The Gillen House was a highlight of our recent trip to the southern Appalachians! It is located in the small, quiet central GA town of Maxeys about an hour east of Atlanta, removed from all the hustle and bustle of the city. From the moment we arrived, the hosts Edward and Cynzia were very welcoming and professional, while also making you feel like you’re with family. The property itself is the beautiful historic home of the prominent businessman and developer in the area 100 years ago. Both Edward and Cynzia are very accomplished experts in their own complementary areas in culinary skills, groundskeeping, architecture, art, renovation, etc which together make for an impressive property and culinary experience. They gave us an interesting, informative tour of the property and we enjoyed an optional dinner which Edward skillfully prepared and presented. We then enjoyed coffee outside under the pretty Georgia night sky in the peaceful backyard. Their spacious (a couple of acres) backyard has a vegetable garden, fish & turtle pond, wildflower garden, large area for special events such as weddings and reunions, and numerous thoughtfully placed seating areas for groups or secluded couple’s conversations. The home has been skillfully restored, updated to modern standards while preserving the historic integrity. We stayed in the Azul (Blue) room and it and all the rooms were beautifully furnished and had comfortable mattresses and ample amenities. There were complementary snacks and drinks, and even a drawer stocked with items you might have forgotten to bring. Cynzia is an accomplished artist and the house is decorated with her artwork. The included breakfast the next morning was once again a special presentation with fresh fruits and locally sourced items. We can’t say enough about how nice, relaxing, and enjoyable our stay was. Whether for an intimate couple getaway, a quiet escape from the city, or as a venue for special events, Gillen House is a superb choice!!!
Jamie Stephens2023-04-09My husband and I stayed at Gillen House for one night on our way to watch the Masters Golf Tournament. I wish we had stayed longer. Edward & Cynzia were wonderful hosts. Both are talented artists, and their work is displayed throughout the house. Knowing our plans, special "Masters" treats were prepared for us. The food they prepared was excellent. The grounds were beautiful and welcoming. We hope to come back soon.
Jim2022-11-01Easygoing good people, delicious food and relaxing atmosphere. We were treated like family. Thank you Edward and Cynzia Jim and Lynn
Cricket2022-09-08Gillen B&B pays attention every little detail…. From extra chargers, to sound machines, to filtered water…. You will want for nothing during your stay. The hosts are delightful and engaging. We highly recommend the b&b - it’s impeccably clean, super comfortable, and very relaxing.
Emily McClatchey2022-08-20I don’t know what kind of feng shui magic Cynzia and Edward piped into this place, but I have never in my life had such a relaxing visit anywhere in the world. I slept as well as I did before I had children 11 years ago, and I am considering booking another visit imminently simply for the sleep. The only downside is that while I am sleeping I can’t be cozying into one of their many perfect nooks with a book, exploring the beautiful gardens, or catching a breeze on the front porch with a crisp glass of white wine and their to-die-for crackers with tapenade. Had a lovely and delicious dinner with some other guests who seemed equally enchanted as I was with this gem of a place- what a memorable stay that beckons me back ASAP. A MUST STAY.
Cristina Ott2022-08-10We had the pleasure of staying here this past weekend, the history and the beauty of this home is impeccable! Each antique piece of the home has a story behind it. Edward and Cynzia were amazing hosts! We had a lovely dinner when we arrived and got settled in. The art in the home is created by Cynzia so it’s like walking into a gallery/studio! Highly highly recommend this Bed & Breakfast! Best one we have ever been to! We learned so much about the town and the home! We got to meet their sweet house mates! The view’s and the scenery give off such a homey vibe! We definitely plan to come back and stay here anytime we are in Georgia!
Subscribe to our email list
