Edward and Cynzia didn’t plan to open a bed and breakfast in Maxeys, Georgia. In fact, their original dream was to start a pizza restaurant in Dornoch, Scotland — home to the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Edward, an avid golfer and club member, had been developing the idea long before meeting Cynzia. When he shared his vision with her, she loved it, though she wasn’t yet ready to leave Atlanta for a new adventure.
A couple of years later, the timing finally felt right. As they began planning their move to Scotland, two business ideas competed for their hearts: a pizza restaurant or a cozy bed and breakfast. Cynzia adored both concepts, especially since either could also serve as an art gallery for her fine art paintings. Still, the B&B resonated more deeply with her.
She fondly recalls a moment from the 1989 movie Cousins, when Ted Danson and Isabella Rossellini’s characters visit a bed and breakfast run by a woman painting at her easel. The owner smiles and says, “By the way, all the paintings are for sale.” Cynzia remembers thinking, That’s what I want to do when I grow up!
But life, as it often does, had other plans. Around this time, Cynzia’s middle daughter bought a house in Maxeys, a small town about 25 minutes southeast of Athens, Georgia. She began encouraging Edward and Cynzia to purchase the charming 1920s home next door. It wasn’t an easy decision — after all, their Scotland dream was already in motion.
The turning point came when Cynzia’s daughter shared that she was getting married and said, “Can you imagine having Grandma and Grandpa next door?” That heartfelt vision sealed the deal. Edward and Cynzia chose Maxeys, fell in love with the house and the town, and transformed the property into The Gillen House Bed & Breakfast.
More than just a place to rest, The Gillen House is designed to make every guest feel like family. Their only rule? Feel at home. Each room is cozy and comfortable, with welcoming spaces for conversation, games, and creativity. Guests are encouraged to mingle, share stories, and even create art during their stay.
One guest review captures the spirit of The Gillen House perfectly:
“Love this spot so much! We are returning guests and hope to come again soon! Edward and Cynzia are incredibly kind and wonderful hosts! They offer beautiful, comfortable, and relaxing rooms. Edward is an amazing cook, and Cynzia’s artwork throughout the home is incredible. Would recommend this establishment for anyone looking for a place to stay in the area.”
At The Gillen House, every stay is more than a visit — it’s a connection, a memory, and a reminder that home is wherever warmth and creativity meet.
