Bowen B&B Gallery on the Hill

The breakfast was below standard, and our room was affected by noise from the nearby water tower. The female owner also woke us before 6am each morning when rubbish was thrown into the bin just outside our window. Their website showed an incorrect accommodation price, and although it says rooms have private ensuites, ours had a shared bathroom across the corridor for the same price. We were greeted with friendly smiles, but that turned into a hostile, unwelcoming attitude. We were shown the dining and living rooms and terrace when we arrived, so we assumed guests could use those shared areas. Our room had no desk or table for a computer, so we sat at the dining table. At night, while we were using the computer, the old German owner suddenly switched off all the lights and told us to leave because the common area wasn’t for guests. Nobody had mentioned this rule, and it felt extremely rude. We’ve never encountered such behavior anywhere in the world. There was a fully equipped kitchen, but guests weren’t allowed to use that either. Stay away.

I’d read reviews saying the host was helpful and couldn’t do enough, and wasn’t sure whether to believe them. In this case, they were right. Madeline was amazing, even going back to her place to get me a bandage for my sprained ankle. Best host I’ve met. For a business or pleasure stay in or around Bowen, head to the water tank and see Madeline after booking.

Great views, a lovely location and facilities, and really warm hospitality. This was a genuinely enjoyable B&B stay. We’ll make it our “must stay” place in Bowen. See you again soon, Marg!

Lovely views and bird sounds, with very good service. A great B&B. We’ll be back.