Are you looking to be pampered for a whimsical, fun yet relaxing getaway?

One of my favorite places to stay in St. Michael’s is the Five Gables Inn & spa. Nestled in the scenic Chesapeake Bay village of St. Michael’s, Five Gables is a luxurious and charming bed and breakfast located within walking distance of fine dining, lovely boutiques, antique shops and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The 20-room inn is made up of three circa 1860 homes – two adjoining traditional brick buildings and the Colonial-style Five Gables located across the street – which have been lavishly renovated to offer an elegant, yet comfortable getaway.

 The historic inn is a haven for relaxation and features an Aveda concept spa, beautifully decorated indoor pool, sauna and steam room. When weary visitors step inside the parlor of Five Gables, the homey atmosphere and personal attention is instantly rejuvenating. Guests can relax and chat or read the paper, have a cup of coffee and light refreshment at any hour. An expanded Continental breakfast is served daily in the dining room, which is decorated in an early American style, with a touch of whimsy. Afternoon refreshments are also available.

Rooms and suites are individually decorated in an elegant style and feature working gas fireplaces, a whirlpool and antique furnishings. Each bathroom features single or double whirlpool tubs. There is a VCR and CD player in each room. For those who can’t leave their laptops at home, there is Wi-Fi in the main house. Fax service is available upon request.

Unique packages

The Inn has regular special packages, but some of the more unique ones include a “Procreation Vacation,” where couples can relax and indulge in, you know, starting a family. Nine months later, couples can return for their “Baby Boom Vacation,” to be pampered right before the baby is born.

Available until Nov. 10 is a “Spa and Sail” package, which gives travelers an opportunity to explore the Chesapeake Bay, savor the region’s famous crabs, indulge in a therapeutic massage, all while enjoying the charming town of St. Michael’s. Guests receive a two-hour sailing adventure on the Rebecca T. Ruark – the oldest working skipjack in the area – to learn about Chesapeake ecology and maritime history. Sea legs are then treated to a one-hour massage for two people, followed by a dozen crabs and beer on the deck of The Crab Claw Restaurant, overlooking the harbor. Based on double occupancy, the package also includes two-night accommodations.

Dogs welcome

Can’t leave your dog at home? With advanced notice, dogs are welcome to visit Five Gables for $35 per day. Each dog receives use of a dog bed, special fuzzy toy and a doggie treat. The first-floor rooms are allocated for guests with dogs.

Proprietors John and Bonnie Booth’s love for their Jack Russell terrier Freddie is evident with their pet policy and in Flying Fred’s, an upscale pet boutique. In fact, Freddie can often be seen trailing behind his owners throughout the inn, which adds special charm for visitors.

In 1988, John and Bonnie Booth left their hectic life in New York to begin a peaceful existence in the picturesque community of St. Michael’s. John renovated historic homes in the area while Bonnie operated her fine needlepoint shop, B’s Stitches. John eventually built two guest rooms on top of the shop to accommodate a few visitors at a time. Soon, they purchased the building next door and added six more guest rooms. Three years later, they bought the building across the street, adding eight more room as well as an indoor pool and Aveda concept spa. In 2005, they purchased yet another building and added five more new suites and another upscale guest room.

“This adventure has been a thrill from day one,” states Bonnie Booth. “We so enjoy meeting all of the people who come through the doors. Over the years, our repeat guest ratio has been terrific. Now, we can accommodate a few more!”

Five Gables Inn & Spa is located at 209 North Talbot St. in St. Michael’s. For information, call 877-466-0100 or visit www.fivegables.com.