Feature photo: Innkeepers Nicki Doria and Mark Boulanger and their puppies.

Newboro House B&B, hosts earn five-star reviews

NEWBORO - A comfy century-plus home surrounded by wide open spaces and fresh air is very enticing to travellers and weekend getaway lovers these days.

You can slip into this comfortable atmosphere while spreading your wings at Newboro House Bed & Breakfast not far from the famous Rideau Canal. Owners Nicki Doria and Mark Boulanger are planning for a great season as more people are vaccinated and ready to get out and enjoy a change of scenery.

"We have so many wonderful outdoor spaces to explore - and be safe - including two local trails," says Nicki, noting they are adding a new gazebo to their homestead. It gives guests an outdoor option for enjoying her hearty breakfast fare, from German apple pancakes and waffles to her 'great country omelettes'.

"It's the charm of the place with all of the original trim, dormer windows and spiral staircase. You can step back in time but still have all of the creature comforts," she says.

"We love welcoming people to Newboro House. It's an ideal base for so many excursions in this region."

"I think people are wanting to come out and we're happy to offer additional space," says Nicki. Visitors can have the entire house or they take one booking per floor to ensure social distancing.

One visitor who gave Newboro House a five-star rating wrote: "Spotlessly clean everywhere, powerful internet, super-scrumptious breakfast! Elegantly renovated B&B - Nicki and Mark are considerate and hospitable hosts with many years of professional hotel experience between them and a focus on family."

The couple bought the circa 1880s landmark just a few years ago. They moved from east Toronto where Nicki had run a children's consignment store for 20 years. Mark has been in the hospitality field for decades as well. Why Newboro? They came to the area for many years to stay at their cottage on Mill Pond near Portland.

Newboro House was their choice because it also has separate living quarters for the innkeepers. They cater to all diets, including vegan and Keto.

"We just love it. You meet so many amazing people and hear their stories. That's what I enjoy most about it," says Nicki. "It's energizing and invigorating for us."

Learn more about Newboro House, located at 31 Drummond Street East in Newboro, on their website, Facebook and AirBnB pages. Call them at 613-272-9161. They are also part of the B&B Photo Challenge on Instagram.

Story and photos courtesy of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office.