a big disappointment
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 9/19/08
The Gables Inn is nothing like the promotional pictures and descriptions. It is dilapidated and in dire need of upkeep, refreshment, and restoration. The main building has rugs that are black with dirt...the first thing you see when registering. The breakfast is good if you can take the dirty carpet on the way to the eating area. The breakfast does not make up for the dingy surroundings. We stayed two nights because we had booked (and paid) ahead, and didn't really want to argue with the lady owner, who seemed ready for a quarrel when we asked to see the rooms. We moved two of a party of four from the main building, where hallways and stairs were narrow, making us wonder if we could get out in the case of fire. We stayed in the "carriage house", which had dirty rugs but we did enjoy the fireplace in the cool Sept. mornings and evenings. No used towel replacement or coffee were provided for the second night. To get the tap for the "jacuzzi/shower" to work, I had to stand in the tub and pull with all my might. We did not feel comfortable using the tubs because the dirty rugs and windows did not give us confidence that the jets had been consistently and thoroughly cleaned. Don't believe the pictures! Unless this property undergoes major renovation or they knock it down and start over, don't go. I am amazed that I check the reviews before booking, and only one actually described the true conditions of this Inn. I dismissed that one review as being by someone who demanded perfection. If I had only heeded that one true review...but at least it gave the four sisters who came to Stowe for a reunion something to talk about, and some of the descriptions and comments gave us great belly laughs...guess I can thank the shabby, old Gables Inn for that.