Innisfree Boutique Inn By-The-Lake

Clare and Henry shared some wonderful stories, and my room, Emily Brontë, was gorgeous with an amazing view. When Clare learned I was traveling alone, she moved me to a room where I’d be around other people, which I really appreciated. I loved this place. My one disappointment? I didn’t see a single bear while I was there! 😮

After a day out kayaking, coming back to a spacious, classy suite was exactly what we needed to relax before heading back to the lakes and the area’s good restaurants. We brought our own kayaks and explored Lake Glenville, then made the longer trek up the mountains to Wolf Lake. The views and surroundings were breathtaking. Innisfree felt like a luxurious step back in time, in a quiet, pristine mountain setting near one of the Southeast’s prettiest lakes. Happ’s Place was only about a quarter mile up the road, with great food, a terrific atmosphere, and live music. It made for a perfect couples vacation. The staff were attentive, pleasant, and welcoming throughout.

Repairs are badly needed here. The ceiling leaks, the windows don’t latch, and the fireplace, tub, and screen door were broken. I didn’t feel comfortable leaving belongings inside with the windows that way. There’s no view at all, and the place isn’t near the lake. They wouldn’t even provide a coffee pod. I’ve never stayed somewhere without at least one cup of coffee, and there are plenty of better, cheaper rentals in Glenville if you don’t need a lake view. I’d steer clear.

The Kipling Room is in the lower rear level of the GARDEN HOUSE, reached by a set of steep, narrow brick stairs. Guests in the other GARDEN HOUSE suites are upstairs, and you can hear every move they make. Keep in mind you’re booking a room in the GARDEN HOUSE, not within the Innisfree Boutique Estate. The room badly needs updating. It was last updated in 2007, and the fanciful decor hasn’t held up: the green carpet is stained in several places, and the wallpaper is coming away from the walls, with scotch tape used as a makeshift fix. The bedding doesn’t feel like what I’d expect at a 4 or 5 star BNB. Breakfast was delivered at 9:25, and there was no option to have it earlier, so don’t plan to leave for a hike or boating before 10 if you want the included meal. The woman who brought it was sweet, but breakfast was just a slice of quiche, a few pieces of fruit, four cherry tomatoes, a slice of bacon, and fresh orange juice. Clare, the owner, greeted us warmly at the estate with a freshly made cookie and cider when we picked up the key. If you decide to stay, I’d recommend signing up for the two kayaks at the nearby lake for a sunrise or sunset row.