BATH — When traveling for any reason, whether it’s for business, family visits or vacation, it makes a difference when the rented rooms are comfortable and inviting.

That’s what Maree and Dale Benson, the new owners of the Inn on Bath Creek, are going for — a home away from home.

Nestled among the quaint buildings of Main Street in Bath and right across the street from the waterfront, the Bensons decided the bed and breakfast would be a perfect fit for them. It is in a small, beautiful town, a manageable size with four bedrooms and a good place to settle and retire, according to Maree Benson.

The couple closed on the property about three weeks ago, and while they intend to keep most of it the same, they want to make it their own. Some of the changes so far include: family dog Remington serving as the unofficial welcoming committee, artwork from the couple’s travels around the world and homemade soda bread, a nod to Maree’s Irish roots.

“We’re blessed. … Bath, it’s an amazing town,” Benson said. “People welcome you here like old neighbors, straight away.”

The Bensons are moving after seven years in Washington, D.C., a far cry from the quiet little town of Bath. Benson said the two were looking for a place within four to six hours of Washington, D.C., and a friend suggested looking at waterfront properties.

She said she has 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, although the bed and breakfast is a first for her. Husband Dale is retired from the United States Navy and now works as a government contractor; he’ll be doing the cooking for the guests.

“He’s going to be the chief cook. I’m the domestic help,” Benson said with a laugh. Rooms can be reserved for $130 per night including breakfast.

The couple has done their fair share of traveling, but now they can focus on making other travelers feel at home.

“We’ve spent the best part of our lives living in major metropolitan areas where life is a constant rush,” she said. “It’s a radical lifestyle change, and that’s the best way to put it. It’s going to take awhile to settle.”

“Everything so far has been wonderfully positive,” she added.

The new owners also want to be an active part of the Bath community and support other local businesses, while also giving the town exposure by attracting visitors, Benson said.

Part of that goal also includes giving back to the area and giving recognition to those who deserve it, whether it’s someone in the town or beyond.

In honor of Veterans Day, the Inn on Bath Creek is offering a free night of stay to veterans or active-duty military members and their spouse on Nov. 10 and 11. It’s an initiative in which bed and breakfast inns across the nation are participating, but it holds a special meaning for the Bensons with Dale’s Navy background.

“I think the people who serve in uniform do a fabulous job serving the country,” Benson said.

“The focus for us is to bring people into the local community and have them boost the local economy,” she said. “We’re part of it now.”

 

For more information about the Veterans Day offer on Nov. 10 and 11 or to reserve a room, call 252-923-9571. There are still spots available. Military ID card is required.