Rock Island Trail Forum

Of the 4 places we stayed on our Katy ride (Clinton to St. Charles), this was the most disappointing. No host or hostess around, it was cold at night, and the bathroom was out of toilet paper. The shower was marked cold for hot, and hot for cold, and there was no note to tell you this, so I waited 10 minutes for it to turn hot, before trying to turn it to cold (which is when I got the hot water). Breakfast was good, but late. The hot tub was the only redeeming quality. The house is nicely decorated, but a little more comfort would have been appreciated after a long day of riding from Sedalia.

My family of three was equally disappointed in the lack of interest by the "hosts". The breakfast Gregory made was great, but the atmosphere was completely lacking - we didn't have any idea even if the people in the bedroom downstairs were supposed to be there are potential axe murderers. It was my children's least favorite stop.

I stayed here last week & it was very enjoyable. The place is practically sitting on the trail, so it was nice to collapse immediately after my rainy 50+ mile day. The "Jefferson" room was large and attractively (tho sparsely) decorated. The bed was very comfortable. The bathroom was on the other side of the house, so that was a little inconvenient. It was nice to be able to use their washer & dryer (well worth the $2 fee). Breakfast was delicious, prompt, and attractively presented. It included unique touches like a fruit & yogurt parfait, walnut banana pancakes, and scrambled eggs with yellow squash & onions. Gregory was an excellent cook & breakfast host. I do agree somewhat with the people above who felt "on their own", especially when arriving. My assessment is simply that the innkeepers are a little inexperienced at this, but that will hopefully improve over time if people provide detailed feedback to them, which I did in an e-mail. In terms of "bed" & "breakfast", though, I give the place an "A" -- quaint, comfortable, clean, and a great breakfast, all at a fairly reasonable rate.

I stayed there twice in a row this last summer and both times were just perfect.. the price was

right and the breakfast was very good. Gregory made a very nice vegan meal for me both

times and the room and bathroom worked great. so all of negative comments I think are very

un-warrented. I say give these folks a chance..

I'm glad your stay was pleasant, but the comments were not "un-warranted". The fact that they didn't have the bathroom stocked with toilet paper, and that the host didn't show up, and that showers are marked backwards, are just that, FACTS. These things happened to not be appreciated by us after a long day on the trail, and we will likely choose another place next time.

I say give everyone a chance Chris......even the original poster.

I feel that would be a good idea" to stay at another place next time"..

I feel its a great place to end up after an 89mile 100 degree day on the trail from clinton.

I got there and just chilled and was very pleased not to be bothered by a host. maybe if your

expecting the Ritz Carlton you shouldnt end up here. but if you want a great place to crash

and a good breakfast in the morning before another long day on the trail this place can't be

beat...

Chris, I don't think she said she was expecting the "Ritz Carlton". She just pointed out things that disappointed them. As for me......I like to hear about both good and bad experiences. I think most people here understand that any business can have a bad day and if most reviews are positive they will write the bad ones off.

One shouldn't have to stay at the Ritz to enjoy the benefit of toilet paper and faucets installed to code.

Hey, it was not my intention to cause argument. I only intended to express disappointment in what seemed to be lacking. I will admit this was my first B&B experience, so I can't say what my expectations were. However, I did expect certain basics, and got them everywhere else we stayed during this 5 day trip. Even the Tebbetts Shelter/Hostel had toilet paper and a decent shower, although obviously lacked some of the better amenities that this B&B had. Guess I would expect them to not miss what I consider to be an essential - toilet paper. I do think it's good to have discussion and say what was good and bad about each place, so that others know what to expect. As I said in my original comment, breakfast was good and the hot tub was a big plus! But there were also some negative things about this place for us.

Hi all. I operate the Katy Trail B&B with my wife Tawnee. We are always the first to state that we are not a high-end B&B, and that there is no hostess on site. In fact, that has been our best two selling points. Many people prefer their own space. Somehow those two facts did not present themselves as clearly as we would have hoped to our guest above. I'm glad that our B&B has been a very popular stop for a lot of people that keep coming back. However, the place is definitely not for everyone. Some people absolutely love it. Others, obviously, not so much. We were so blessed in the 2006 season to have Gregory “chef extraordinaire” making the place even more wonderful. We bought the B&B three seasons ago when it was closing and in danger of not being a B&B anymore. The thought of not having a place in Rocheport where families & kids could spend the night just seemed to go against what the Katy Trail is all about. So my wife and I have kept the B&B going, and have made many improvements over the last two years to make it even better. We make our money elsewhere. Honestly, this place isn't about making a lot of money, or offering a high end B&B experience. Its about offering a warm comfortable bed, a hot shower, a great breakfast and a sun setting over the Katy Trail at an affordable rate. The homogenization of our culture tends to raise one's expectations to expect hotel highway chain caliber experiences at every stop. But you’ve got to remember that Rocheport isn’t on the highway. It’s a funky little river town with no Sonic, WalMart or KFC. Our B&B, and our town, is what I would call the antithesis of that “everyplace becoming the same” thing. That’s why we live here. We're welcoming people out of an 1880s home that is limping along but getting better each year. The house saw a foot of water in 1993’s flood, and we're literally rebuilding it room by room.

We even have one window that doesn't have a latch on it *gasp*. And to be fair, I must admit, I am the one who put the faucet knobs on wrong in the Attic room. The 60 year old clawfoot tub faucet broke, and I had two hours to switch out the faucet handles from another 60 year old faucet (thank goodness I had the part on hand). And yes, the hot and cold are backwards. That was the only way I could get it to work. I do need to put a note on it. We could ditch the old clawfoot for a fiberglass showerstall with a new fixture that "looks old," we could close the B&B and cash in our chips, or we could endeavor to continue to do the best we know how, with what we have available. We want to keep doing what we're doing: offering the low cost lodging option in Rocheport, where families, kids, wedding parties and couples are welcome. Yep, our place is a little funky, it will never win B&B of the Year or anything, but we do see a lot of people leaving with smiles. As for toilet paper, we have plenty! We have three cleaning folks on staff. Generally there's a couple extra rolls in the wicker basket behind the various toilets or in cabinets above the sinks. I'll never know if perhaps some cyclist needed it for their next night camping more than I did, or whether it was a huge oversight. Either way, we stand corrected. We do have two phone numbers posted if anyone needs anything, we're only a phone call and two blocks away. We have a 1 and a 4 year old. As a result, we have to do our business a little different right now in these first few years with the kids. Probably a year or two down the road, we'¦ll have more of the kinks worked out. We believe our website offers a very clear picture of what we do and do not offer. I always prefer a chance to make something right before someone rants about toilet paper, etc. We endeavor to please as many guests as we can. But I do remind myself of my mother's words: you can't please everybody.

Brett, Thanks for taking the time to post a response here. I wish more owners would do the same. It's always nice to hear both sides of the story. Also, thanks to the original poster for sharing their experience. It's always hard to get a feel for a place from a website and it helps to hear other's experiences - good and bad.

All in all this has been one of rarities on the internet.....a civil conversation.

Thanks for adding the info Brett. I am the one who had the original post, and I did not intend to be totally negative on the B&B. We were really glad to have a reasonably priced place to stay, and I loved the hot tub!

Just a little tired, and frustrated with trying to find some toilet paper. I looked everywhere, and even searched the storage room off the kitchen, to no avail.

Just want to say that we really appreciate that you have kept the place open and going, and priced so that even cheap people like us can afford it!

Hi Kim. Glad we've had this chance to chat. I'd be happy to offer you a free night's stay in 2007 as a chance to make up for your last visit. Email me anytime to iron out the details: pebblepublishing@gmail.com. Life is too short to make anything but friends and goodwill. And I think that's what the Katy Trail is all about... If that won't work for you, perhaps I could talk you into a free float on the Missouri River? I'm real excited about 2007. For the 2007 season, we're adding another lodging option at the B&B. It's a house right at the Rocheport Trailhead. We call it the TreeHouse. Its a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house available for people to rent in its entirety. Great for families, three couples to share, etc. We're wrapping up the renovation work right now, then we will get the furnishings in. It should be ready by May 1 if not sooner. It offers great light, great location, great space with oak hardwood floors, a huge kitchen, vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans, etc. Please visit our website at www.katytrailbb.com for more information coming soon. To anyone reading these postings, I hope you'll make it to Rocheport this season. It's a beautiful little town regardless of the season. There's a new general store now open too, that offers great lunch and dinners, live music, poetry readings, good coffee, grocery store items and more.

Maryland Yards is no longer there. A new restaurant called Pasta Luigi's on Main is at the Waterworks location now. The restaurant is actually in a 19th Century city waterworks building converted into a 3-story restaurant with a nice deck out back for warm-weather dining. The seafood ravioli is the best I have ever had. They also have toasted canneloni which is awesome. You can park your car out back, go for a ride and then have a pasta lunch (or a sandwhich) on the two-story deck overlooking the trail when you get back.

Maryland Yards is no longer there. A new restaurant called Pasta Luigi's on Main is at the Waterworks location now. The restaurant is actually in a 19th Century city waterworks building converted into a 3-story restaurant with a nice deck out back for warm-weather dining. The seafood ravioli is the best I have ever had. They also have toasted canneloni which is awesome. You can park your car out back, go for a ride and then have a pasta lunch (or a sandwhich) on the two-story deck overlooking the trail when you get back.

Maryland Yards is no longer there. A new restaurant called Pasta Luigi's on Main is at the Waterworks location now. The restaurant is actually in a 19th Century city waterworks building converted into a 3-story restaurant with a nice deck out back for warm-weather dining. The seafood ravioli is the best I have ever had. They also have toasted canneloni which is awesome. You can park your car out back, go for a ride and then have a pasta lunch (or a sandwhich) on the two-story deck overlooking the trail when you get back.

pasta luigi's is closed

pasta luigi's is closed

pasta luigi's is closed

This was a very helpful picture for my school project!!!

This was a very helpful picture for my school project!!!

I saw in the paper that the DNR settlement with Ameren UE over the Johnson's Shut-Ins disaster may include receiving the use of the right-of-way of the Rock Island line from Windsor to somewhere near Kansas City, to extend the trail across the state. Sounds like a great thing.

Yes, in fact the Missouri Bike Federation is coordinating a grassroots campaign to help convince Ameren that this would be a win-win situation for all parties involved. Anyone who would like to see the Katy Trail extended to KC should take a minute to read the MO Bike Fed's web page on the Ameren situation. Thanks!

Stay away from this terribly rude woman. We received a gift certificate for a wedding gift in October 2004. It expires August 2005. We got pregnant on our honeymoon, and asked for an extension...explaining that I am due in 8 weeks. Laura (an owner) said, "Lady, that is your fault." She refused to extend the date. We frequent MO wineries with friends all of the time, and would highly recommend looking for nicer people who own their own B&B's who truly appreciate your business.

Sorry to say, but that is your fault, Lady! You had 11 months to go, and I don't think Bed and Breakfasts have a rule against pregnant people. You seem to have waited an awful long time to try to rectify your dilemma. You still have until August, give it to a friend or family member or something. It was a gift, it didn't cost you anything. I've been to many bed and beakfasts in this area, and Windhomme hill was by far the best of the bunch. Not only is this your own fault, it's also your loss.

I am Laura. I said none of the things that this woman claims. In fact...I have never even been to any of the other establishments in this area. She was angry and frustrated that I would not extend her gift certificate. A year is a long time. Obviously other things were more important to her than using this wedding gift. She was extremely rude to me and even tried to threaten me with the wrath of the person who gave her the gift as a wedding present. I politely asked if she could give it to someone else. In fact..I am honoring the gift certificate. Her husband gave it to his brother, who evidently does have time to use it. Windhomme Hill has been in business for over 15 years. We have built our business on service and the satisfaction of our many repeat customers.

Laura

We have to say that having stayed in many other B&B's, Windhomme Hill is our favorite B & B in the U.S. We make at least one special trip a year to the Missouri wine country just to stay at Windhomme Hill. Nick and Laura are the best hosts we have ever met. The fact is you tried to use a certificate that was expired is your problem not their problem. Look at most gift certificates and they have expiration dates. We got a Gift certificate, to a Restaraunt for over $200, for our wedding and never got to use it. We didn't see the expiration date until it was too late, that's life. Laura even says she is still honoring it. Laura we are looking forward to seeing you in September. Mike and Kay

This is a perfect example of the perfect gift gone wrong. The fact they they blessed you with such a gift means that it is a special place they wanted you to visit - but you will never experience the tranquility and ambience - I have booked the entire place so I could personally turn on my friends to the great hospitality that they offer. I'm sure alot more gifts went unused or in a garage sale or Ebay. I have a restaurant and would you beleive we receive certificates up to 6 years old? People need to be more realistic when giving and receiving these types of gifts. If someone doesn't eat out or sleep outside of their own beds, give the gift to one that does. Regifting is OK in this situation, even if Jerry Seinfeld says it's not.

I haven't been to Windhomme Hill since 1995 - my loss! I just booked a fall weekend as a birthday present for myself; I couldn't think of a better way to pamper myself and a friend. I have wonderful memories of this spectacular place, had a warm and wonderful conversation with Laura last night - and nothing about it was remotely close to rude. Nick and Laura - can't wait to see you!

We have been going to Windhomme Hill for 5 years now and make it a special point to go a minimum of twice a year. It is an INCREDIBLE retreat/home away from home. Nick and Laura are not just hospitable, but are warm and caring people who never cease to amaze me with their personal touches. I can not imagine Laura responding in the manner this person states, and I have to agree that if you waited that long to even attempt to use the gift certificate it obviously wasn't a priority of yours. You will never know what an amazing experience you missed out on!!!

The gift certificate should have been extended. A year goes by quickly, especially when pregnant and having doctors appointments every month. Money was paid and no services were rendered. The only thing the B&B lost was part of their reputation.

My family has deep, deep routes in this part of the country, although all of my immediate family has long gone on to other places and other pursuits. Still, as I get older, my memories get dearer and I find myself having more and more reasons to return to the place of my summers. Many I loved are gone, but still there are those that are still here today. So, all that to say, I am poking around a lot, finding b&bs in the area. I never respond to these things, and I have never been to this bed and breakfast, but I feel a desire to respond. Frankly, based on the comments, I would be reluctant to try this one and would perhaps prefer to try one of the many, many others in the surrounding areas, even though in my gut I bet, indeed, the bed and breakfast is fantastic and the hosts are great. Why? Because : The customer is always right. It would not have killed you to make an allowance in the spirit of bed and breakfasts in the first place. A year is indeed short when first married and pregnant. And why not say, o.k. i can extend it just on these dates or just for this short period of time. And I would not have defended myself by responding to her response that way. Never mind that if she was rude -- cut her some slack --- and you misinterpreted her point about knowing other people in the area, I don't think you responded to that point correctly. I don't know either one of you, will probably never meet you, but just would like to say, the most important thing about a bed and breakfast is a FAMILY like spirit

Expiration Dates on gift certificates/gift cards are simply, WRONG! Cash money was spent and they should not expire period. Why would anyone buy a gift certificate when a Visa gift card would be good for anywhere. I give cash and suggest things to use it one.

My husband and I have been to this bed and breakfast at least 20 times in the last 10 years. Before visiting there we used to frequent others as a getaway in town. Not anymore.

This place is an event. It is an enticement to the senses. Not just food and wine. It is place of fascinating dinner conversations (a lost art), interesting music, and a physical space with character. Warm and architecturally interesting. It smells like gardens, spices, and fresh air. It sounds peaceful.

The food is amazing and unusual. It is presented very well and with excellent service. Rude is something I have never experienced much less considered possible there. We have come to know Nick and Laura over these many years as their guests. This insinuation that Laura is rude is appalling to me.


Both Nick and Laura are gifted at responding and embracing so many of their guests little foibles. However, they have so many faithful customers over the years, I am not surprised they have had a negative comment. It is statistically impossible for them to not have had someone dissatisfied.

Regarding gift certificates, we have purchased several for friends and clients over the years. We have always been careful to warn the recipient that they expire, and have had this information clearly outlined to us at the time of purchase.

Every business has the right to set policies that make the company work for them. The customer is not always right. Sometimes the customer is just plain nuts. Anyone that says the customer is always right should work in a restaurant for at least a year. Can't we all say that at some time in our life, at least once, we have been a bad customer?

If you enjoy the bed and breakfast experience, this is an excellent option. If you let one bad comment stop you, it’s your loss.

I go over to my cousins alot, and it is the funnest place. Nick and Laura and Nick are the BEST! They teach me about my Italian heritage. Nick is a GREAT chef and Laura is a good host. They are my sister,Rosalee Chipponeri godparents. Her favorite thing to do there is SWIM,and she loves to look and see what Nick painted on the ground of the pool (this year he painted a turtle.).HAPPY BIRTHDAY,Laura,We LOVE YOU!

Your B&B comes highly recommended from my friend Eric Ryback. I was hoping to view your place and hope to stay for a weekend. Look forward to hearing from you,

Rose Marie

I dont know about all that.. but you should check out the Globe Hotel in Hartsburg. That town is a great place to stay on the trail. Congrats on the baby!!!

We have stayed at many bed and breakfast establishments and we have had the pleasure to be guests of Nick and Laura several times in the past. I cannot always say this about other places we have stayed, but the experience at Windhomme Hill has always been very wonderful and memorable. They are warm and hospitable hosts, the food is excellent and the gardens and landscaping beautiful. We have met some great people during our stays and I can only make positive comments. I was just reminiscing while recommending Windhomme Hill to someone and called up this website. The negative comment at the top of the page inspired me to write about the good times we've had. Hope everyone will continue to read past the first paragraph.

Sorry about your loss, and you did lose. I have never been in a more loving and caring environment. Nick and Laura, are the best at what they do. I know of no one who has ever left this wonderful place unhappy with their stay. You would have loved it.

Who REALLY cares about this stupid topic...get over it, both of you...bunch of backward country freaks!!

I agree this horse has been beat to death, but let's keep things friendly around here. Since everyone has had their say, I'm gonna close this thread.