The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
2475 Altay Rd, Rock Stream, Starkey, NY 14878-9626
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About
#1 of 3 B&Bs in Rock Stream
Location
4.8
Rooms
4.9
Value
4.9
Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Sleep Quality
4.7
Women-owned
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Nestled on 15 acres a few miles northwest of Watkins Glen, NY, the Ginger Cat B&B is the perfect place to stay during your vacation in the Finger Lakes. Our philosophy is simple: Treat our guests as friends. Provide clean and comfortable accommodations, serve great food (100% vegan) and be as helpful as possible. Gluten free - no problem. Watch the magnificent sunsets and stargaze from the large deck or take a walk through the woods that surround the house and gardens. One of our rooms is pet friendly and kids over the age of 3 are welcome.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Patio
Board games / puzzles
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Wifi
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Shared bathroom
Sun deck
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Room features
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Desk
Seating area
Separate dining area
Coffee / tea maker
Kitchenette
Bath / shower
Wardrobe / closet
Iron
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Microwave
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Mid-range
Languages Spoken
English, French
Location
2475 Altay Rd, Rock Stream, Starkey, NY 14878-9626
Getting there
Elmira Regional Airport
19.4 mi•
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Tompkins County Airport
25.2 mi•
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Rental Cars
10 Restaurants
within 5 miles
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Detailed Reviews
Conveniently located not far from Watkins Glen in upstate NY, this vegan B&B has a lovely garden and grounds, perfect for walking or simply enjoying the variety of birds that frequent the feeders. The two pleasant and comfortable guest rooms do not have en suite bathrooms, but during this era of covid, only one room is occupied nightly, avoiding the necessity of sharing. The proprietor, Gita, is friendly and helpful, and serves a vegan breakfast that (to this omnivore) was surprisingly tasty. If you miss the company of your own cat while traveling, you may visit with her sweet, friendly Maine Coon cat – or just enjoy all the delightful cat-themed décor!
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Date of stay: August 2022
Location
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gita Devi, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Sep 7, 2022
I'm glad you enjoyed your stay and found the food 'surprisingly' tasty. Sebastian, my Maine Coon cat, says hello and hopes you'll come back again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We LOVED our stay at your cozy b and b. The vegan breakfasts were delicious, plentiful and varied. Gita, you are the hostess with the mostess. Your warm nature was so appreciated by both of us. You're accommodations were perfect. We have found paradise. We will remember forever the best vacation ever. We look forward to returning. Warmly, Linda and Russell
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Date of stay: May 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gita Devi, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Jun 7, 2024
It was my pleasure to host you and Russell and I do hope that you'll be back again. Have a wonderful summer.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gita is an excellent host and provides everything you need.. her vegan breakfast is delicious and a great start to the day..be sure to visit the farm sanctuary..the watkins glen gorge trail is beautiful as are many of the trails. Wineries and breweries galore nearby..Stonecat Cafe an excellent choice for vegan food options also. Dry reisling's are superb in the finger lakes..enjoy!
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Date of stay: August 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Â Go-to waterfall hikes early to avoid most crowds
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gita Devi, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Aug 28, 2022
Thank you for your wonderful review. It was great having you stay and I hope you'll be back again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My girlfriend & I stayed here for a cold birthday weekend in January - we wanted to get out of the city, try wines (many vineyards close by!), hike the beautiful Watkins Glen Park (right down the road!) & Taughannock Falls (30min), and try Gita's renowned vegan cooking. I'm vegetarian, and my girlfriend is vegan. Breakfasts were amazing! Lots of food, lots of local variety, and absolutely delicious - from home-made scones, sweet fruits, waffles, and vegan yogurt to savory frittatas, sautéed kale with cashews, tempeh bacon and local squash. Gita was a great host and gave us expert advice on everything we wanted to do in the surrounding area.
Rooms were clean and cozy, beds are comfortable and nights are quiet.
...And we loved her cats! She keeps them in a totally separate part of the house, so no worries about allergies or stow aways in your bed, but if you like cats like we do, you're sure to meet Indi, Wally, and Sebastian.
The Ginger Cat is perched just over Watkins Glen making it easy to roll into town every morning. We found it easy to get to surrounding vineyards, the Corning Glass Museum, and Taughannock Falls from this location as well.
We also really enjoyed just talking with Gita, who is a compassionate animal advocate and knows lots of folks in Watkins Glen & the surrounding area. On her advice we found delicious vegan eats all over town, and had an elegant birthday dinner at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars (they actually offer a vegan cheese plate to pair with wines!). And if you ever want to visit Farm Sanctuary, I can't think of a better place to call home while you're in the area.
I highly recommend staying with Gita at the Ginger Cat, and we will definitely be returning. Thank you Gita!
Rooms were clean and cozy, beds are comfortable and nights are quiet.
...And we loved her cats! She keeps them in a totally separate part of the house, so no worries about allergies or stow aways in your bed, but if you like cats like we do, you're sure to meet Indi, Wally, and Sebastian.
The Ginger Cat is perched just over Watkins Glen making it easy to roll into town every morning. We found it easy to get to surrounding vineyards, the Corning Glass Museum, and Taughannock Falls from this location as well.
We also really enjoyed just talking with Gita, who is a compassionate animal advocate and knows lots of folks in Watkins Glen & the surrounding area. On her advice we found delicious vegan eats all over town, and had an elegant birthday dinner at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars (they actually offer a vegan cheese plate to pair with wines!). And if you ever want to visit Farm Sanctuary, I can't think of a better place to call home while you're in the area.
I highly recommend staying with Gita at the Ginger Cat, and we will definitely be returning. Thank you Gita!
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Date of stay: January 2016Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from GingerCatBB, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Jan 21, 2016
Thank you so much for this amazing review. It was a pleasure to host you both and I'm glad that the weather cooperated so you could get some hiking in, along with making glass flowers at the museum. Watching the Democratic debate with you both was also a lot of fun. The feline boys send their regards and hope to see you again. Gita
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We loved our stay at the Ginger Cat! Great location--just a short drive to Farm Sanctuary and Watkins Glen downtown area. Breakfast was delicious and the room was lovely. It was nice to stay at an all vegan B&B and to have plenty of recommendations for vegan food in the area. Hoping to come back for another Farm Sanctuary visit at some point! Thanks Gita!
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Date of stay: July 2016Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It's been 6 years since my last visit to Watkins Glen. Last time I camped at Farm Sanctuary to attend their Country Hoe Down. While I am not vegan I have strived to transition to a vegetarian/pescatarian diet with some successes and failures. This trip was to celebrate my 1 year anniversary with my boyfriend. It was a lovely get-a-way from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Staying at the Ginger Cat and touring Farm Sanctuary a second time reminding me of the importance of choosing a plant based diet. Gita is a sweet and inspiring woman. Her home is beautiful, cozy, and comfortable. Breakfast on both mornings was delicious, and it interested my boyfriend to try more vegetarian and vegan meals. I also enjoyed spending time with Gita's cats. If only they were allowed to sleep with us in our room! ;)
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Date of stay: June 2014Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from GingerCatBB, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Jun 26, 2014
Michelle - Thank you for your kind words. When I read your entry in the guest book, I was so touched that I might have had a hand in your on-going journey to 'veganhood'. It was a pleasure to meet you and your boyfriend and I'm glad that you both enjoyed your stay here. I look forward to seeing you again soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was a lovely bed and breakfast near Watkins Glen and the Farm Sanctuary. A complete vegan breakfast was provided. The owner was very helpful in navigating the surrounding area for vegan dining. The room was clean and cheerful and the food was wonderful. Note that the bathroom is shared, but it appears to only be shared with one other room. It also did not appear to have internet access, but it was a nice peaceful retreat.
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Date of stay: May 2014Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Our trip to the Farm Sanctuary and the Finger Lakes region around Watkins Glen was made more unique by our two-night stay at the Ginger Cat B&B. It was really interesting to meet and talk to other couples who share a vegan lifestyle and who chose the Ginger Cat B&B as part of their vacation. There are just two rooms at this B&B, so I found that sharing the bathroom was not a problem.
Gita is a lovely host and indulged our desire to play with her sweet and friendly cats on several occasions. The cats are kept in a separate part of the house, so even people with allergies should not be affected. The house is kept neat and clean at all times. I particularly loved looking at the many cat decorations, trinkets and tchotchkes throughout the home.
This was our first B&B experience, and overall was a very good one. I will point out that we stayed mid-week and -- based on some of the other reviews here -- the breakfasts were not what we expected. I knew we would not be getting the weekend vegan brunch, but I was looking forward to some hearty vegan breakfasts, like french toast or tofu scrambles. On both days we were served a vegan yoghurt and fruit parfait, some muffins and pastries and more fresh fruit. Everything was tasty, but I guess had hoped for something a little more elaborate.
There is a small refrigerator in the common area and we brought some vegan snacks with us for the evening, so we didn't go hungry. Gita provided a list of vegan-friendly restaurants in the area (there's even a place that serves vegan ice cream in Watkins Glen!), and we took advantage of that list.
The home is situated in the country on about 15 acres of land, so it was nice and quiet for sleeping. Overall a very enjoyable two days in the Finger Lakes region.
Gita is a lovely host and indulged our desire to play with her sweet and friendly cats on several occasions. The cats are kept in a separate part of the house, so even people with allergies should not be affected. The house is kept neat and clean at all times. I particularly loved looking at the many cat decorations, trinkets and tchotchkes throughout the home.
This was our first B&B experience, and overall was a very good one. I will point out that we stayed mid-week and -- based on some of the other reviews here -- the breakfasts were not what we expected. I knew we would not be getting the weekend vegan brunch, but I was looking forward to some hearty vegan breakfasts, like french toast or tofu scrambles. On both days we were served a vegan yoghurt and fruit parfait, some muffins and pastries and more fresh fruit. Everything was tasty, but I guess had hoped for something a little more elaborate.
There is a small refrigerator in the common area and we brought some vegan snacks with us for the evening, so we didn't go hungry. Gita provided a list of vegan-friendly restaurants in the area (there's even a place that serves vegan ice cream in Watkins Glen!), and we took advantage of that list.
The home is situated in the country on about 15 acres of land, so it was nice and quiet for sleeping. Overall a very enjoyable two days in the Finger Lakes region.
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Date of stay: July 2013Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My friends and I stayed at the Ginger Cat B&B in fall 2012. We came across it because the cabins at Farm Sanctuary were all booked up, and we needed a place located nearby. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise that FS was unavailable, because we were so happy to discover this place.
Gita is the most wonderful hostess you will ever meet: warm, friendly, and easy to talk to. If that's not reason enough to stay here, she is an AMAZING vegan cook who will serve you mouthwatering breakfasts all weekend. We started our day with waffles, quiche, granola parfaits, fresh fruit, coffee and tea. YUM. She also had a little snack waiting for us when we arrived, and we could help ourselves to tea anytime.
I could go on and on about this place, but bottom line, it is really the no-brainer place to stay if you plan to visit Farm Sanctuary, or even if you are just looking for a quiet getaway. Watkins Glen is an adorable small town with interesting shops and some of the most gorgeous waterfalls I have ever seen. And with FS being such a big tourist draw, many of the local eateries offer vegan options.
There were only two small things that kept our stay at Ginger Cat from being perfect (and neither of them would deter me from staying there again):
1. Unfortunately, our first night there, the guests staying in the second room had a baby who cried all night long. Not Gita's fault, of course, but we were considering canceling our second night because none of us could sleep. Fortunately the family checked out the next morning.
2. We were actually disappointed that the cats were kept in a separate part of the house! I understand not letting them in the kitchen for sanity reasons, but we would have had no problem with them sleeping on our beds at night. Gita says this is done to "prevent allergies," but frankly if you have allergies to animal hair, I'm guessing a cat B&B is not the place for you. We were happy that we got to spend some time playing with the kitties.
p.s. I highly recommend checking out the Ginger Cat Facebook page. Gita regularly posts updates and photos of her delicious meals, and if that doesn't make you want to go, nothing will! https://www.facebook.com/GingerCatBB?fref=ts
Gita is the most wonderful hostess you will ever meet: warm, friendly, and easy to talk to. If that's not reason enough to stay here, she is an AMAZING vegan cook who will serve you mouthwatering breakfasts all weekend. We started our day with waffles, quiche, granola parfaits, fresh fruit, coffee and tea. YUM. She also had a little snack waiting for us when we arrived, and we could help ourselves to tea anytime.
I could go on and on about this place, but bottom line, it is really the no-brainer place to stay if you plan to visit Farm Sanctuary, or even if you are just looking for a quiet getaway. Watkins Glen is an adorable small town with interesting shops and some of the most gorgeous waterfalls I have ever seen. And with FS being such a big tourist draw, many of the local eateries offer vegan options.
There were only two small things that kept our stay at Ginger Cat from being perfect (and neither of them would deter me from staying there again):
1. Unfortunately, our first night there, the guests staying in the second room had a baby who cried all night long. Not Gita's fault, of course, but we were considering canceling our second night because none of us could sleep. Fortunately the family checked out the next morning.
2. We were actually disappointed that the cats were kept in a separate part of the house! I understand not letting them in the kitchen for sanity reasons, but we would have had no problem with them sleeping on our beds at night. Gita says this is done to "prevent allergies," but frankly if you have allergies to animal hair, I'm guessing a cat B&B is not the place for you. We were happy that we got to spend some time playing with the kitties.
p.s. I highly recommend checking out the Ginger Cat Facebook page. Gita regularly posts updates and photos of her delicious meals, and if that doesn't make you want to go, nothing will! https://www.facebook.com/GingerCatBB?fref=ts
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Date of stay: October 2012Trip type: Traveled with friends
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from GingerCatBB, Owner at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Responded Jul 24, 2013
Thanks so much for the great review. I'm sorry that the baby kept you awake the first night. Re: not letting cats in the guests quarters. Believe it or not, I do have people who stay here who ARE allergic to cats! I try to keep the Ariel Room as allergy-free as possible since the Zachary Room is pet-friendly, although no cats have come along as travel companions so far. Hope to see you on a return visit.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
If you're looking for a Victorian farmhouse filled with antiques and lace curtains, this isn't the place for you. However, if you want to meet an incredibly warm and hospitable innkeeper, go no further. The accommodations are nothing fancy, but I've stayed in both bedrooms, and they have very comfortable beds and make you feel like you are right at home. The house is immaculate, and you would never guess there were over half a dozen cats in residence, though they are kept in a separate part of the house. The gardens are well tended, and much of the harvest ends up in your meals, which are always delicious and well presented. The yogurt/granola parfaits could be served in any five star restaurant, and don't miss the chocolate cake. I have stayed at many B & B's, and have never felt more welcome than here at The Ginger Cat. I am confident you will feel the same way if you decide to spend some time there.
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Date of stay: October 2011Trip type: Traveled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Either one will allow a good night's sleep.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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"If you don't have a dog, go for the no-pet room! That way, folks like us, with a dog, can stay too! :)"Read full review
LOCATION
United StatesNew YorkFinger LakesStarkeyRock Stream
NUMBER OF ROOMS
2
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast
Which popular attractions are close to The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Nearby attractions include Hector Falls (4.3 miles), Shtayburne Farm (1.9 miles), and Reisinger's Apple Country (4.4 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, complimentary tea, and free instant coffee during their stay.
Is parking available at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Elf in the Oak, Grist Iron Brewing Company, and Veraisons Restaurant.
Are pets allowed at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and French.
Are there any historical sites close to The Ginger Cat Bed & Breakfast?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Brick Tavern Museum and Wickham Rural Life Center (8.1 miles).