A Destination in Pennsylvania – Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Labor Day weekend is always special to me. My husband and I were married over Labor Day weekend in 2015, so every year we try to take advantage of the long weekend to celebrate our anniversary. This year, we spent the weekend at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort nestled in the rolling hills of Farmington, Pennsylvania and an easy commute of just over 3 hours from Cleveland or Columbus.

Nemacolin - Farmington, PANemacolin is an extensive experience with three lodging establishments on site: Chateau Lafayette, The Lodge and Falling Rock plus townhomes and luxury vacation homes. We stayed at the French inspired Chateau Lafayette, a true grand European resort.

Once we began approaching Nemacolin, we could see the Chateau perfectly situated on the hilltop. As we approached the curvy, steep driveway, we were quickly greeted by the security gate attendant and continued our way up to this beautiful architectural gem.

We were immediately assisted out of the car, luggage loaded, and went to check-in. Upon check-in we gladly accepted a glass of champagne (or sparkling cider), were warmly welcomed with a “Happy Anniversary!” and were promptly on our way to our room.

The Chateau in one word is GRAND. Marble flooring, wood paneled walls, an extensive art collection, sparkling chandeliers, beautiful floral arrangements, statues and elaborate draperies are just a few of the décor qualities you’ll find throughout the property.Nemacolin - Farmington, PA

Chandeliers are sparkling everywhere you look. The hallway leading to our room is chandelier lined, the entry way of our room had a chandelier, a large chandelier hung over the bed… just beautiful. Our room had two large windows with a stunning view of the fog settling in the hills.

Nemacolin - Farmington, PADuring our stay we took advantage of the many activities available to us. The first day we went clay shooting (yes, they trusted me with a rifle!), we shared relaxing time poolside, enjoyed dinner at Rockwell’s (a steakhouse) and rounded out the evening at Sean’s favorite, the cigar bar.

Day two started off with pouring showers and thunderstorms. However, this did not stop my husband from golfing one of his favorite courses, Mystic Rock. I took the much more warm, cozy and indoor approach… I started with a cup of coffee in one of the many parlor/nooks throughout the resort. This parlor offered a large standing birdcage with beautiful chirping birds, century furniture, big windows and sparkling chandeliers. It was so peaceful and quiet.Nemacolin - Farmington, PA

Once I finished every last drop, I headed to the Nemacolin Spa. The spa was so beautiful and calming. The “waiting” area offered chaise  loungers, with faux fur blankets and a massive wood-burning fireplace in the middle. It was a perfect fit for a dreary morning. Luckily, by the afternoon, we got to soak in a few additional rays at the pool and partake in an overly competitive game of putt-putt (I need a vote… Sean won by a few strokes BUT I got a hole-in-one, that has to count for something!).

I could go on, and on, and on, and on about Nemacolin Resort. There is just SO much you can do either as a couple, a family, with co-workers, etc. There is truly something for EVERYONE from accommodations to activities to food.

This is a place we will return to without a doubt in my mind. It has a new, special place in our hearts and we look forward to making many more memories here!

 

Until Next Time,

Lauren

Nemacolin - Farmington, PA

Nemacolin - Farmington, PA

 

Feeling Ritzy?

The Ritz Carlton located in the heart of downtown Cleveland within the historic Tower City building has long been a beacon of luxury and opulence. There is a lot to love about the Ritz Carlton Cleveland. For one, it is the only Ritz Carlton property in the state!

The Ritz Carlton ClevelandFrom beginning to end, service is top notch. I pulled up to the busy valet and was warmly greeted and promptly guided to the elevators to sweep me away to the lobby. Immediately off the elevators is a stunning floral arrangement composed of several tall clear vases with simplistic blooms.

The lobby is a hub for guest engagement, dining, conversation or a night cap. The newly renovated rooms and public areas are abundant with steel grays and blues paying homage to Cleveland’s storied steel-working industry. As each working day winds down, a steam whistle signals the start of “off clock” featuring light fare and strong spirits in TURN Bar & Kitchen. In the evening I did partake and ordered the Asia Town Tom Yum Goong and boy was it a sweet and spicy bowl of perfection!The Ritz Carlton Cleveland

The sleeping rooms are stunning and sparkling clean. What a perfect space to unwind, get your work done or get some shut eye. The bathrooms are beautiful, large and bright. The flooring, shower and counter tops are all white marble tiled with shiny stainless fixtures.

One of my favorite features of the room was the lighting options. For ease of access, I had many lighting settings available at my fingertips for bed left (lighting on just my side of the bed), Good Night, Master, Evening (subtle lighting) and Work. Even the bathroom had a nightlight feature, I loved this. (I am always the one stubbing my toe in the middle of the night!) I also enjoyed having a Nespresso machine in the room. It was a welcomed amenity for the afternoon and morning caffeine binge.The Ritz Carlton Cleveland

Other exceptional qualities of the The Ritz is the Club Concierge and the extensive fitness center. The Club Concierge is just as stunning as the property with impressive views, sleek furniture and exceptional options for food & beverage complete with a friendly host. The 4,500 sq. ft. Core Fitness Club offers more than a standard hotel gym. This is an all-around wellness center with live-streaming classes and group fitness!The Ritz Carlton Cleveland

The Ritz Carlton certainly checks many boxes on the list of luxury amenities. Stop by for a cocktail at TURN next time you are ending your long work day… who knows, maybe you’ll make it in time to hear the steam whistle!

 

Until Next Time,

Lauren

The Ritz Carlton Cleveland

The Ritz Carlton Cleveland