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Love in Hocking Hills

Recently I went on a mini vacation to Hocking Hills for a few days with other members of the press. I enjoyed it immensely, but after a few days I realized that this is the perfect destination for romantic honeymoons, anniversaries, and getaways, thus I began to miss my husband (I told him we are going back for our fourth wedding anniversary next year). Nestled in the rolling hills, there are many places to stay, but a bed and breakfast is where you will want to stay if you’re looking for a romantic getaway.

The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls

The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls is surrounded by rock formations, caves and waterfalls. The breathtaking natural beauty and escape from every day life instantly sweeps over you upon your first step on the premises and over the course of your visit, it brings you and your loved one closer together. Stay in a cozy, vintage-decorated room in the Inn or experience the tranquil setting of the tree-nestled cottages or cabins. 

You won’t need to look any further for gourmet meals, the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls’ restaurant has you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chef Anthony prepares seasonal dishes with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and homey and the menu has comfort food touches like the amazing Mixed Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream (a must-try when you visit) or the Butternut Squash Ravioli.

If you are a foodie couple, you will enjoy the Weekend CookInn Classes (Jan. 21-22; March 18-19; Sept. 16-17) Overnight guests will join Chef Anthony Schulz for dessert and wine on Friday night. On Saturday, guests will prepare that night’s dinner.

 

You won’t need to leave the Inn premises to have a relaxing vacation, the secluded Spa is top-notch, offering a variety of services. Pamper your honey with the romantic couple’s massage. Nestled in the trees of Hocking Hills, this experience will not only be relaxing, but a unique memory!

If you take the time to travel to Hocking Hills, you must venture out and explore the beautiful area. The rock formations, especially Old Man’s Cave was like something I had never seen. If you and your significant other are outdoorsy, you will especially like the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls’ Stepping Up & Out Woodland Awakening, (April 28-May 1) A mind/body/spirit adventure with hiking part of the Grandma Gatewood/Buckeye Trail; guided kayaking on Lake Hope; hiking and backpack lunch at Rose Lake; yoga; meditation and stress reduction technique workshop; heart healthy cuisine breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Jim Crotty Photography

After leaving the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls and the Hocking Hills area, I have concluded that it should be added as a world wonder. Seriously. There were so many times I stopped to marvel at my beautiful surroundings, amazed at what God has created, and amazed that Hocking Hills is not a household name.

Hocking Hills Ohio, A Hidden Gem

You may have not heard of Hocking Hills Ohio, and neither had I before a few months ago, but after visiting and seeing the breathtaking scenery, experiencing the warm hospitality, tasting the food, and having fun at the abundance of activities, I have concluded it is a hidden gem. Millions of trees with cabins nestled in the forest, and the scenic winding roads make Hocking Hills a romantic anniversary spot. You can have a fun family adventure zip-lining, canoeing, ATVing, horseback riding, and hiking. The food, wine, and candle making classes are ideal for a girlfriend’s getaway. 

 

Only two short 50 minute plane rides from Des Moines, the trip to Hocking Hills is short enough for easy traveling with kids, but far enough away from the rush of everyday life. Peak season is in the fall when the tall trees are changing colors and the air is cool enough for a comfortable hike through the caves. 

The winding roads up and down the hills are a beautiful sight, but be sure to bring your GPS or detailed maps of your destination. Most lodging and activities are nestled in the quiet forest of Hocking Hills, taking you far away from the city rush, but you can also easily get lost. 

With a wide variety of lodging possibilities in all price points, you could stay in a motel, or in a cozy room at a bed and breakfast, or even a mansion-like house with all of the amenities. Free activities are important for those traveling on a budget (who isn’t traveling on a budget these days?) Hocking Hills has many free activities for your enjoyment including hikes to Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave Gorge, tours of the last remaining washboard factory in the US, attend the Washboard Music Festival or Lilyfest. View a complete list of free things to do at 1800Hocking.

 

Hocking Hills, Ohio is your destination for…. 

Romantic Vacations and Anniversaries
Family Fun Vacations
Girlfriend Getaways