Gardiner has a new Bed and Breakfast, lovingly created by Michael Aiello and Robert Witkowski from the nineteenth century Aiello family home on Route 208. Called the Inn at Kettleboro —the name for that section of Gardiner—it offers superb views of the Shawangunks and very inviting and comfortable spaces. The Inn has been converted from a family house into a first quality Bed and Breakfast with four distinct and interesting bedrooms, each with ensuite bathrooms and interesting names —Empire, Cortland, Braeburn, and Winesap—which locate the Inn as a Hudson Valley institution and draw guests’ attention to the local apple farms. The rooms also have large windows with lovely views.
The main floor includes a large formal parlor, a second dining room, an office, two bathrooms, a small sitting room, and a breakfast room with three glass double doors offering expansive views of orchards and the Gunks. The large farm table in the breakfast room is inviting and encourages group discussion while enjoying the view. There is a sitting area of leather chairs at the other end of the room, conducive to a conversation for four or a space for quiet reading. The beautifully laid out kitchen shares the room and makes it easy for breakfasts as well as snacks and coffee all day. There is also a small room to the side where two people can sit and eat, read, or visit quietly.
Outside the breakfast room is an expansive stone deck with the same view and interesting landscaping. It is a perfect place to relax, read a book, watch the sunrise or sunset, and just soak in the wonderful fresh air of Gardiner. It overlooks a lovely lawn and a working orchard.
The renovation—or transformation—of the house has included the installation of new hot air heating, hot water and air conditioning systems, closed cell foam insulation, and energy efficient lighting, as well as painting and wall papering in all the rooms. Michael and Robert have also spent the past several years purchasing just the right antique furniture to honor the period of the house and also provide comfort to guests.
The renovation has involved the reconstruction of some parts of the house and new construction of doors, bathrooms, and hallways with most of the work done by local professionals. The result is a very comfortable and welcoming bed and breakfast with the newest technology and systems to provide all the luxuries that guests expect in a first-rate bed and breakfast.
This B and B will appeal to anyone who loves to explore the Hudson Valley and wants comfort and elegance at the end of the day. The indoor and outdoor spaces invite guests to slow down and enjoy the environment, and the Innkeepers know all kinds of local resources for guests who want adventure, good restaurants, and cultural activities.
The house has an interesting history. Michael’s grandfather purchased it at auction in 1950, and his parents, Rose and Anthony, moved in to live with his grandfather when they left the city for a new life in the country. Although the house has been totally renovated, some of the original family furniture has been repaired and reupholstered, which adds a homey touch to the bed and breakfast.
The Inn at Kettleboro has been under renovation for a year and it opens this summer with a formal opening in September.
As it grows and fills with guests, Michael and Robert will finally realize their long-standing dream to be innkeepers. It is a great place to stay or recommend to family members and friends who come to the area. The website is Kettleboro.com; contact information is The Inn at Kettleboro, 321 State Route 208, 914/213-2487 or Kettleboro@hvc.rr.com.