Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast

Amish Country Ohio Auctions

2012-01-27T10:02:00.002-05:00

You may know about the seasonal benefit auctions in Ohio Amish Country but every week there are local auctions where you can observe livestock, hay, produce, etc., being auctioned off.

Monday and Friday auctions are in Sugarcreek
Tuesday auction are in Farmerstown
Wednesday auction is in Mt. Hope
Thursday auction is in Kidron
2nd Saturday of the month is in Mt. Hope

The Sugarcreek auctions are located at 102 Buckeye St., SW, Sugarcreek, OH. For more information call 330-852-2832.

The Farmerstown auctions are located at 2807 State Road 557, Baltic, OH 43804. For more information call 330-897-6081.

In Mt. Hope you will find a flea market that opens around 7 a.m. Hay, produce, and eggs go on sale at 10 am. The livestock sale begins at 11:30 a.m. followed by a poultry sale at 1 p.m. They are located across the street from Mrs. Yoder's Kitchen restaurant. The 2012 schedule can be found on their website.

The Kidron, Ohio auction is the oldest livestock auction in Ohio. It is located across the street from Lehmans store.

Most of the auctions have great food, baked goods, produce and flea markets.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Restaurants in Ohio Amish Country

2012-01-25T15:28:00.049-05:00

One of the first things that people look for on their Amish Country vacation in Ohio is where to eat. You probably expect to only find Amish home cooking but you may be surprised at all of the dining options in Holmes County, Ohio and the surrounding area.

Mrs. Yoders Kitchen in Mt. Hope offers some of the best home cooking in the County. Be sure to save room for pie. They are located at the corner of State Route 241 and County Road 77.
Millers Dutch Kitchen in Baltic is a close 2nd to Mrs. Yoders Kitchen. They are best known for their fried or broasted chicken. They are located just off of State Route 93 about 6 miles south of State Route 39 in the heart of Baltic.
The Inn at Honey Run on County Road 203 has a restaurant called Tarragon. It is a good choice for special occasions because they offer fine dining. They are located between Berlin and Millersburg.
Bags Sports Pub offers good food in a casual atmosphere with a golf decor. You will find everything from burgers on a pretzel bun to a broiled salmon salad to BBQ ribs and steaks. For the beer lover they have approximately 100 beers to choose from! They are located on Main Street/State Route 39 in the village of Millersburg.
Chalet in the Valley is near Charm. They are owned by the Guggisberg family that has a cheese factory across the street. Their specialty is Swiss cooking with things like Wiener Schnitzel and Smothered Chicken. If you like fondue be sure to try theirs! They are located on State Route 557 about 2 miles south of State Route 39.
The Dutch Hospitality Corporation operates 3 restaurants in Amish Country: Der Dutchman (Walnut Creek), Dutch Valley Restaurant (Sugarcreek/Dover), and Farmstead Restaurant (Berlin). They are best know of Amish-style cooking.
Boyd & Wurthmann is on Main Street in Berlin and is the choice for those people that like a hometown diner. The restaurant is smaller and not big on decor but they offer Amish home cooking on the menu.
Fast Food: Head south on State Route 83/US 62 in Millersburg and you will run across Subway, Wendys, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Burger King, Chengs Chinese Gourmet

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Funky Ohio Wines

2012-01-23T10:56:00.024-05:00

You've heard of Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Merlot, but there are some really funky names for some Ohio Wines. Don't let the names keep you away because the flavors are delicious. When you travel in Northeast Ohio be sure to check out these wines:

Hanky Panky. A sweet catawba wine from Maize Valley Winery
Foreplay. A fruity wine made with different berries from Al-Bi Winery
Pirates Pour. A berry flavored Chambourcin from Winery at Versailles
Big Red Pecker. Dry Merlot from Maize Valley Winery
White Lies. Sweet wine from Winery at Wolf Creek
Wine Dog Red. Red currant and pomegranite sweet red from Winery at Perennial Vineyards
Mad Cow. Intense grape flavors from Maize Valley Winery
Space Cowboy. Fruity peach wine from Winery at Wolf Creek
Old Dusty Miller. Semi-sweet wine from Breitenbach Winery
Red Neck Red. Sweet red wine from Maize Valley Winery.

There are fun flavors in Ohio wines today. At Al-Bi Winery you can sample American Red Watermelon Wine. The Winery at Wolf Creek has Pinot Colada which tastes very much like a Pina Colada cocktail. If you like the flavor of apples be sure to check out Original Sin from Winery at Wolf Creek. If you want to avoid traveling to several wineries to try all of these wines you can visit a wine tasting showroom. Gateway Place on US 62 in Wilmot lets you sample 40 or more kinds of these wines. If you are in the Sugarceek, Ohio area stop in Heinis Gourmet Market to sample many of these wines. Stop in on a Saturday afternoon and find musical entertainment to enjoy with your wine. If you want to have a designated driver to sample Ohio wines then check out the wine tours offered by Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Carol' Top 5 Picks for Ohio Cheese

2012-01-21T13:18:00.025-05:00

If you have ever traveled to Holmes County, Ohio, you know that this Amish area is famous for Ohio Cheese. Almost every tourist that visits Amish Country goes home with some kind of cheese. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast owner, Carol Steffey, is sharing her five favorite cheeses in the area:

Guggisberg Cheese: Baby Swiss. This cheese is so smooth and that it will melt in your mouth. It is great to snack of with a glass of your favorite wine or to enhance the flavor of a sandwich.
Walnut Creek Cheese: Smoked Swiss Cheese. If you don't like sharp or strong cheese but you want something with a full body flavor this is your cheese. My favorite way to eat it is on crackers but it is also very good in an omelette.
Pearl Valley Cheese: Emmentaler. This cheese has a bold, nutty flavor and is part of the Swiss cheese family. We love to use this in our breakfast dishes at the bed and breakfast to add some extra flavor.
Broad Run Cheese: Smokey Sharp Cheddar. Words like smokey and sharp may suggest a very strong cheese, but it is just right. It puts a burst of flavor in your mouth and is great by itself or on crackers.
Heini's Bunker Hill Cheese: Vegetable Cream Cheese Spread. You can sample about 50 kinds of cheese at this cheese factory and they are all good. This unique spread is full of flavors! For a quick appetizer, spread it on a slice of ham or turkey and roll it up. Slice it like pinwheels and enjoy.

There are so many flavors to choose from with Ohio Cheese that you could try a different one every week and still barely tap the surface. When you visit Holmes County, and the surrounding area, if you should find a cheese factory that doesn't have samples sitting out just ask for a sample. They are happy to oblige.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

New Scenery Added to Murder Mystery Weekend in Ohio

2012-01-19T13:02:00.001-05:00

When guests book a murder mystery weekend in Ohio at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast they often ask the same question of the innkeepers: "Where do we do the murder mystery?"
The owners are always looking for new props or scene setters to enhance the mystery. On January 7, 2012 guests went to "New York's Little Italy" to feast on Italian food while solving a murder. Each guest played a suspect. Carol Steffey, one of the owners of the bed and breakfast, enjoys scouting out stores to find the right scenery. After breakfast, Carol starts converting the Breakfast Room at the B&B in to the scene of the "murder". When guests return in the evening to participate in the murder mystery the room has a whole different feel. This Ohio bed and breakfast offers murder mystery weekends about month throughout the winter and spring months. They can even set up a mystery weekend package for friends that want to take over the entire B&B.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast Inn of Ohio Shares Easy Appetizer Recipe

2012-01-17T11:34:00.002-05:00

At our bed and breakfast Inn of Ohio we recently hosted a murder mystery with a Mediterranean theme. We found a really delicious appetizer that kept with the theme and was easy to make.

Mediterranean Crescent Pinwheels
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
1 can of refrigerated crescent rolls
1/2 lb. thin sliced ham
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 t. pepper
1 T. olive oil
6 T. chopped fresh basil

Divide the crescent rolls in to 4 rectangles and press the seams together. Gently spread the rectangles to make them larger. Place 3-4 slices of ham on each rectangle.
Meanwhile combine the feta, pepper, olive oil. Sprinkle over the ham on each rectangle.
Top with chopped basil.
Start with the short side of the rectangles and roll up, pinching the end to seal. Cut each roll in to 5 slices and place on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 375 for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Bon Appetite!

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Tantalizing Tastes & Tunes at Ohio Amish Country Getaway

2012-01-15T10:04:00.009-05:00

The new year has arrived and in just a few months Mothers Day will be upon us. An Ohio Amish Country getaway is offering some tantalizing tastes and tunes Mothers Day weekend. Guests staying at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast will indulge in one of the most gourmet dinners that they have ever experienced. Master Chef, Kent Welsh, who has catered Emmy and Grammy awards, will prepare a meal that will tantalize your taste buds. After dinner they will gather around the campfire at this Ohio bed and breakfast to hear some tunes. This performance is no sing-along but a professional performance by acoustic, finger-style guitar artist, Bud Preston. Preston has produced an original CD of songs that were inspired from Amish Country called 'Welcome'. He is soon to publish a 2nd CD with songs inspired by the history of Ohio's Erie Canal. There will be free time to take Mom around Amish Country on Saturday and do some shopping, wine tasting, or pick up a box of chocolates.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

New Year Came in with a Bang ... Murder

2012-01-13T07:39:00.003-05:00

Guests who decided to travel to Ohio Amish Country this past New Years Eve found a whole new meaning to bringing in the New Year "with a bang". The people that stayed at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast were part of a murder mystery package. Each guest played a suspect in a role as a crew member on a cruise ship that was in the Mediterranean. The "Captain" announced the murder and then it was mayhem because everyone had a motive. As the crew sat around the "Captains Table" they indulged in a Mediterranean meal. By the time the champagne toast came at midnight the murder was solved and everyone had a Happy New Year.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Wine & Dine My Valentine

2012-01-11T13:26:00.002-05:00

Photo Courtesy of Ravens Glenn Winery

If you are looking for a romantic bed and breakfast in Ohio to wine and dine your special Valentine this year then you will want to check out Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast. This is the only bed and breakfast to in Ohio to own a tour bus and take their guests on tours. Since Valentines Day 2012 falls on a Tuesday they have put together a Wine & Dine: Wine Tasting Weekend just prior to Valentines Day. You and your sweetheart will get to sample Ohio wines, taste Ohio cheeses, tour a winery, and savor a 5-course dinner that includes 5 wines! One of the nicest features is the designated driver so you don't have to worry about how much wine you consume. For more information on this Valentines package check out their website.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Marriage & Murder: Valentines Weekend

2012-01-09T10:57:00.000-05:00

Who would put "marriage" and "murder" in the same sentence when talking about Valentines Day? One of the romantic places in Ohio's Amish Country has done just that. Since Valentines Day falls on a Tuesday in 2012, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has put together a weekend murder mystery with a romantic, wedding theme. What could be more romantic than reliving your own marriage with a wedding themed package. Guests will dress in wedding clothes as if they are coming to a real wedding, the only twist is that there will be a "murder" at this wedding. All of the guests must work together to solve the mystery during a "wedding reception" where they can indulge in a meal. Details for this February 17-19, 2012 package can be found on their website.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Did I See Amish With Cell Phones in Holmes County?

2011-12-23T11:05:00.001-05:00

Today when you visit Holmes County, Ohio Amish tourist attractions you may see some Amish with things that you did not expect such as cell phones, gas lawn mowers, etc. In our ever changing world the Amish must make adaptations for their life needs. These changes must be approved by their church leader, the Bishop. These changes are not adapted in their home because they don't want to harm their family structure or upset their community. They are used with limits for business...for instance, a Bishop may allow cell phones for work purposes but at the end of the day they must turn them off until the next work day. The Amish that you see with these modern items are usually the Old Order or New Order Amish.
There is a group of Amish in Holmes County called Swartzentruber. They are the most conservative group in the County. They refuse power tools or to hire a driver to go to work. They usually make a living from farming, basket making, or quilt making. The Amish basket makers that you see in the northern part of the County are usually part of this group.
One place to get your questions about the Amish answered correctly is from the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center/Behalt. You can also learn about the history of the Amish there.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Winter Wine Tasting Weekends Help Beat the Winter Blahs

2011-12-21T10:49:00.002-05:00

If you are looking to be the Winter blahs then check out wine tasting weekends in Ohio. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Millersburg has their own tour bus. They offer weekend packages for wine lovers. You check-in on Friday and unwind. Saturday afternoon you board the bus for an escorted tour where you can taste wine, listen to music, participate in cheese tasting, and take a winery tour. The highlight of the evening is a 5-course dinner with a glass of wine to accompany each course. For pricing and additional information visit the website of this Ohio Amish Country getaway.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Weekend Getaways include Annual Pajama Party Sale in Berlin

2011-12-19T14:13:00.005-05:00

If your girlfriends are looking for Ohio weekend getaways in January don't miss the annual Pajama Party in Berlin. It started several years ago with Country Craft Cupboard on Main Street in Berlin, Ohio. They opened their doors at 6 a.m. to customers dressed in their pajamas. There were "bouncers" at the door and if you were not in pajamas then you could not enter. During the hours of 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. there were huge discounts, such as 40% off merchandise, and refreshments. It didn't take long for other Berlin merchants to jump on board and make this an annual event. They usually open at 7 a.m. Some people really get in to the pajama party by putting curlers in their hair and wearing big, furry slippers. Some ladies come in groups with matching PJs or slippers. The deep discounts are from 6 a.m. - 9 a.m. When the stores open for regular hours at 10 a.m. they some times offer smaller discounts. This is a fun weekend for mothers & daughters or a girlfriends getaway. The 2011 date is January 28.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Spice Up Your January with a Murder Mystery Weekend in Ohio

2011-12-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

This January when you start to get cabin fever visit Holmes County and participate in a murder mystery weekend in Ohio. Although you'll be staying near Berlin you are going to feel like you are in New York's Little Italy. The scene is an Italian bistro where the owner has been murdered. You don't have be a professional actor to participate, simply someone who likes to have fun. The murder mystery is called Pasta, Passion & Pistols. As a guest you will play a murder suspect. Your bed and breakfast owners will provide all of the information that you need to portray your character. The mystery is played in rounds where you will be served a progressive meal.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Berlin Ohio Lodging Explains: Who Came 1st Amish or Mennonites?

2011-12-15T17:53:00.006-05:00

A common question at our Berlin, Ohio lodging establishment is, "Who came first, the Amish or the Mennonites?". Most people assume that the Amish came first and the Mennonites broke away for more religious freedom, but that is not correct:

In 1525 the Swiss Anabaptist movement began. This religious sect believes in adult baptism.
In 1536 Menno Simons started the Mennonite church
In 1694 Jacob Amman broke away from the Mennonite church to start the Amish church. He did this mainly over issues with communion and excommunication.
In 1730 the Amish started to migrate to the Eastern USA
In 1808 the first Amish settle in Sugarcreek, Ohio
In 1809 Jonas Stutzman became he first Amish settler in Holmes County
In 1824 Holmes County was founded
In 1913 the Swartzentruber Amish formed. They are the most conservative Amish living in Holmes County today
In 1927 the Beachy Amish Mennonite formed. They are the most liberal Amish living in Holmes County today
In 1966 the New Order Amish formed

When you visit Holmes County, Ohio you can learn more about the history of the Amish and Mennonites by touring the mural, Behalt, at the Amish & Mennonite Information Center. You can also take Amish Culture tours when you are a guest at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast on their own tour bus. This bed and breakfast can also arrange for you to have dinner with one of their Amish neighbors.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast Gift Certificate Buyer Beware

2011-12-13T11:34:00.017-05:00

Every Christmas season people research gift certificates for bed and breakfasts for that someone special and every year people buy something that they didn't realize. There are different ways to purchase bed and breakfast gift certificates:

The easiest way is to buy a certificate for a bed and breakfast that is valid at only that bed and breakfast.
Bed and Breakfast directories will market to the public that they have thousands of bed and breakfasts offered on their website. They also tell you that they sell gift certificates. They don't clearly explain that their certificates are NOT valid at all properties on their website. The directories take a commission from the B&B owners that accept them so not all properties participate in the gift certificate program.
Some Bed and Breakfast directories have books for sale in major book stores that offer to get a night free. The offer is usually to purchase 1 night and get the 2nd night free. Many purchasers don't look at the actual offers. For example, a Colorado ski resort area is not going to honor the certificate in ski season. Nor is an Amish Country bed and breakfast going to honor the certificate during their busy summer/fall season.
Marketing companies will offer books in discount warehouses. Like the previous example most of the properties make their offers for specific days (ie Sunday, Monday, Tuesday) or specific seasons (ie not valid during the busiest, most popular time of year)

The bed and breakfasts are not limiting the offers to try disappoint the person receiving the gift certificate, but they have expenses to participate in these programs. Some directories charge as much as 30% commission to the B&B or they have to pay advertising costs to participate in a program.

The moral of the story: You are not always getting a better gift certificate from the company that tells you have you many choices vs. one specific bed and breakfast due to the restrictions on each offer. Do your homework and find out what the restrictions are.

This blog is not intended to distract the reader from purchasing a bed and breakfast gift certificate, but to encourage you to read the fine print before purchasing the offer to make sure you are getting what you thought you were purchasing.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Christmas Bread Among Bed and Breakfast Recipes

2011-12-11T09:41:00.003-05:00

If you want to make a special Christmas morning breakfast, and save yourself some time in the process, try this Christmas Bread that can be baked in a bread machine. This will give more time to focus on the main course and other dishes.

CHRISTMAS BREAD

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups warm milk (70° to 80°)
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter, softened
2 tablespoons sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
3 cups bread flour
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup golden raisins
1 cup candied fruit
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
GLAZE:
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons milk
1 teaspoon butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

In bread machine pan, place the first 7 ingredients. Select sweet bread setting and bake according to bread machine directions.

Just before the final kneading, add the raisins, candied fruit, and lemon peel.

In a separate bowl, combine glaze ingredients; drizzle over cooled bread. Yield: One 2-pound loaf

Taken from Bed and Breakfast recipes. Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Country Getaway offers Winter Special Rates

2011-12-09T14:05:00.003-05:00

While no one is anxious to travel around Ohio in the winter months, some of the best travel bargains are to be found. In Holmes County, an Ohio Amish Country getaway is offering winter special rates on the weekdays. In addition you will find specials at restaurants, discounts at gift shops, and bargains all around Amish Country. In January, you will find inventory clearance and Christmas clearance just like the big city stores. While most of the shops close around 5 p.m. during the winter months you can choose a room with a fireplace and/or Jacuzzi to relax after a day of shopping. By the time you have finished your breakfast you will find that all main roads have been plowed/salted and you should not expect any problems traveling the main roads.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Berlin Ohio Bed and Breakfast offers December Discounts

2011-12-07T10:52:00.005-05:00

If you're finishing up your Christmas shopping and you're looking for lodging discounts then check out this Berlin, Ohio bed and breakfast. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast is offering discounted rates through December 22, 2011 to help guests save money while Christmas shopping in Amish Country Ohio.
These lodging specials are available Monday - Thursday for specific guests rooms. Click here for complete details.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

8 Holiday Activities in 2011 on your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio

2011-12-05T15:02:00.000-05:00

Visiting Amish Country for a vacation in Ohio offers many activities for many personalities, but during the 2011 holiday season there are special holiday activities to partake in:

Victorian House Museum, Millersburg. Tour this 28-room Victorian home in Millersburg that is all decked out for the holidays. It is open from 1 - 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 1 - 8 p.m. on Friday - Sunday.
Millersburg Candlelight Church Walk. This event will be held on December 9, 2011 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Learn the history of participating churches, see them decorated for Christmas, indulge in some refreshments and explore Millersburg.
Shopping under the Stars, Berlin, Ohio. December 9th the Berlin merchants will stay open until 9 - 10 p.m. offering special discounts, refreshments, and some great Christmas gift ideas.
J.E.Reeves Victorian House Christmas. Home to Dover's first millionaire, this historical home is decked out for the holidays and offers an interesting tour.
Tis the Season Christmas Store. There are special events at this year-round Christmas store for the holidays. December 10th the Steinbach Nutcracker creators will be featured at Tis the Season.
Christmas Candlightings at Historical Roscoe Village. This has become an annual holiday tradition for many families. Experience the tree lighting, caroling, decorations, chestnuts roasting on an open fire, etc.
Childrens Christmas in Historic Millersburg. Become a kid again with crafts, cookies, & Santa. Merchants will be open later with special sales and refreshments.
Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree. Pine Tree Barn in Shreve, Ohio, has a gift shop, restaurant, and tree farm. Hop on a horse-drawn wagon and head out in the field to cut down your own tree. Visit the gift shop for Old World Christmas ornaments and other holiday decor.

When you come to these holiday activities be sure to check out the shops for Christmas chocolates at Coblentz Chocolate Company, gift baskets at our cheese factories, holiday baked goods at our bakeries, and a bottle of wine from one of the area wineries or wine tasting showrooms.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

10 Christmas Gifts to Purchase in Holmes County Ohio Amish Country

2011-12-01T11:50:00.003-05:00

If you are struggling with Christmas gift ideas then be sure to visit Holmes County, Ohio. It is home to the world's largest Amish community and many unique and wonderful gifts. Here is our suggestion of 10 Christmas gift ideas:

Visit Wendell August Forge for some unique metal gifts from bread platters to chip & dip plate to vases and more.
Amish Country Essentials has all natural soaps, bath salts, bath bombs, and other homemade products to pamper someone special with. They can even put together a gift basket for you.
For the garden lover in your life visit Bowden Bells where they make one-of-a-kind recycled garden art. There are ornaments, bird baths, bells and more.
L & E Star Candles is an Amish-owned business with hand-carved candles. In addition to carved candles there are poured candles, holiday angel candles, lighthouse candles, etc.
For the chocoholic in your life be sure to visit Coblentz Chocolate Company. This local family-owned business has mouth-watering holiday gift boxes and baskets our you can build your own.
P. Graham Dunn is the place for inspirational gifts. From wall art to table art and home decor they have creations for everyone's taste.
Stop by Heini's Cheese or Guggisberg Cheese Factory for a gift basket full of locally produced cheeses, jams, chocolates, and more.
The "wine snob" in your life if sure to love a gift from Breitenbach Wine Cellars. They are Ohio's 2nd largest winery and they offer award-winning sweet, semi-sweet, and dry wines.
Carlisle House of Gifts in Walnut Creek is full of gifts. You will find floral decorations, candles, soaps, lotions, hand bags, jewelry, Thomas Kincaid items, and other home decor items.
For the quilt or country lover on your list you must stop by Swartzentruber Quilts. These Old Order Amish sisters not only make bed quilts but placemats, potholders, wall hangings, and more.

These are just a few of the unique gifts that you can purchase in Holmes County, Ohio. When you come to shop consider an over night stay at a bed and breakfast. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has a weekday Christmas Shoppers special room rate where you will save $36 on your room from November 28 - December 22, 2011. The innkeepers will be glad to map our many more places to purchase unique or unusual Christmas gifts for you.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Country Tour Features Christmas Cookies

2011-11-29T11:09:00.011-05:00

As the holidays approach people are looking for Ohio Amish Country tours to learn more about Christmas traditions or just pick up some great food for the holidays. Holmes County, Ohio has a tasty self-guided tour that includes Christmas cookies! On December 4 & 5, 2011 is the 4th annual Christmas Cookie Tour of Inns. Bed and Breakfasts and hotels have decked the halls with breathtaking decorations to welcome tour participants.
Each Inn has come up with a special Christmas cookie recipe. As you go from Inn to Inn you will receive their special cookie wrapped for you to take home. Each Inn will also offer refreshments.
There will be 12 Inns to tour and at some places there will be "featured businesses". The featured businesses will offer samples or demonstrations from their stores. In 2011 some of the featured businesses include Wendell August Forge, Coblentz Chocolate Company, R.W.Leather, Heini's Cheese, Guggisberg Cheese, and the Victorian House Museum.
Click here is a sample of Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast from the 2010 Christmas Cookie Tour of Inns
Proceeds from this Amish Country tour tickets go to local charities. You can purchase tickets from the website or by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 330-674-3975.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Wine Tours Becoming More Popular in Northeast Ohio

2011-11-27T13:18:00.004-05:00

Gone is the day when people go away for a weekend just looking for a room. Today they are looking for murder mysteries, Ohio wine tours, and special packages. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast near Millersburg, Ohio, has been offering wine tours for about 5 years. Guests love having a designated driver to take them wine tasting and to dinner.
On November 5, 2011, was the kick off for the 6th season of wine tours for this bed and breakfast. Guests boarded the B&B tour bus and headed toward Sugarcreek. The first stop was Heini's Gourmet Market where guests did some wine and cheese tasting. Every Saturday Heini's Gourmet Market offers musical entertainment from 1-4 p.m. REN was performing and some of the guests bought a bottle of wine and sat and listened to the music. The second stop was Pearl Valley Cheese in Pearl. This off-the-beaten-path cheese factory is small but offers some great tasting cheeses and wonderful prices. Guests got to sample several kinds of cheese before moving on. The group got through the first two stops so quickly that we threw in an extra stop at Unusual Junction. This place is hard to describe. There are gifts, bulk foods, spices, wedding dresses, deli, diner, and antiques. Our ultimate destination was Raven's Glenn Winery in West Lafayette, Ohio. Owner, Bob Guilliams, gave our guests a winery tour followed by a visit to the wine tasting bar for some tasting. Everyone got a souvenir glass to take home. We ended the evening with an incredible 5-course dinner in the dining room at Raven's Glenn. Guests chose from Crab Stuffed Mushrooms or Roasted Garlic & Tomato Bruschetta for an appetizer. Next we indulged in Wild Mushroom Soup made right in their kitchen. Our salad course offered a choice of Antipasti Salad or Caesar Salad with homemade sour dough rolls. By the time the main course course came we were getting quite full. Part of our group had Grilled New York Strip Steak and the others had Chicken Mediterranean over spaghetti noodles. To top it all off Tiramisu was the featured dessert of the evening. Each of the five courses came with a glass of wine chosen by the chef to accompany that course. This same tour will be offered in January, February, March & April 2012. The wine tours won't stop then. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has all-day wine tours planned for the spring, summer and fall season! For more information about these wine tours at this Ohio Amish Country getaway just visit their website.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

From Amish Country Tours to New Years Eve Murder Mysteries Holmes County Has It All

2011-11-25T10:48:00.001-05:00

Visiting Holmes County, Ohio offers something for everyone. There are Amish Country Tours to teach you about culture and customs in the Amish and Mennonite communities. You can play a murder suspect in a New Years Eve murder mystery package or at other times of the year. At Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast it is the guests that play the murder suspects, not professional actors. For New Years Eve 2011 guests will play crew members on a Mediterannean cruise. In January they will take themselves to New York's Little Italy to an Italian Bistro. The Valentines murder mystery has a wedding theme! In March there the mystery has a ski lodge setting. Pretend you are in Hawaii at at luau in April. It's back to the 1950's in May with a 50's sock-hop theme. Besides these bed and breakfast packages you will find fine gifts, antiques, flea markets, cheese factories, chocolate factory, wineries, golf, culture and more in Amish Country.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Explore Arts and Culture When You Travel Ohio Amish Country

2011-11-23T14:25:00.017-05:00

The next time you travel to Ohio Amish Country you may be surprised to find artists and cultural options in addition to shopping and Amish culture. Holmes County Pottery is home to Ohio's largest wood-fire kiln and you will find a lot of functional pieces offered in the showroom. Eagles Song Studio has fireplace mantles carved from barn beams as well as bronze garden sculptures. Bowden Bells is full of recycled garden art. Berlin is home to Blue River Art Gallery and Berlin Creek Gallery offering several types of art. Wendell August Forge has items forged from aluminum, bronze, and copper from coasters to platters to cheese boards and vases. When it comes to cultural options you will want to see Behalt, a mural at the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, that depicts the history of the Mennonite and Amish communities. The Victorian House Museum in Millersburg has some very unique fireplaces and interesting history. These are just some of the arts and culture options when you travel to Ohio Amish Country.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Get Pampered with Spa Options on Your Amish Country Ohio Vacation Package

2011-11-21T10:50:00.005-05:00

Your next Amish Country Ohio Vacation package can be about pampering yourself and de-stressing, not just Amish culture and shopping. Not only can you purchase some wine and chocolates to pamper yourself in your lodging choice but there are spa options. There are certified massage therapists that will come to your guest room. You can choose from a relaxation massage, a deep tissue massage to work on sore spots, or a combination massage that offers both relaxation but emphasizes specific areas. There are also people that do Reflexology that will come to your bed and breakfast. You can choose from hand or foot treatments. Local salons offer pedicures and manicures and there are places to get facials and body treatments. If you want to get away from Amish-style foods there are other deliciously healthy options. Rebecca's Bistro is a wonderful lunch option. Table Restaurant is a must for dinner. So the next time you need some pampering visit Amish Country Ohio for a vacation package that will spoil you rotten.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Christmas Candlelighting Goes Perfect with Cottages in Ohio Rental

2011-11-19T11:32:00.003-05:00

If you're looking for a cabin or cottage in Ohio as a rental then be sure to come in December. Not only can you cozy up in front of the fireplace and enjoy the Jacuzzi tub but there are special events in December such as Christmas Candlelighting at Historic Roscoe Village in Coshocton. You have three weekends to choose from: December 3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, or 17th & 18th, 2011. Take a step back in time to the 1800's and learn how holiday traditions were practiced at that time. Share in the tree lighting tradition with the crowd singing Silent Night by candlelight. Hear carolers strolling the street, taste chestnuts roasting on an open fire, learn about old-time Christmas cards, toys and treat, etc. This is an annual event and many couples or families come year after year.

You have the option of taking a tour from the Visitor Center. Saturday Tour Times: 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. Sunday Tour Times: 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. There is a tour fee of $9.95 per person. Be sure to check out other area holiday activities when you visit.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Country Lodging Shares Peanut Butter Kiss Cookie Recipe

2011-11-17T15:50:00.001-05:00

Stay at our Ohio Amish Country lodging establishment and receive homemade cookies every afternoon. Around the holidays we pull our Mom and Grandma's cookie recipes to bake for our guests. When I was a little my grandmother would make us Peanut Butter Kiss cookies. Below is the recipe:

PEANUT BUTTER KISS COOKIES

2/3 c. creamy peanut butter
1/3 c. Crisco butter
1 c. packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 t. vanilla extract
1 1/2 c. flour
1/4 t. salt
Sugar for coating cookies
40 Hershey Kiss chocolates, unwrapped

Preheat the over to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl beat the peanut butter, crisco, brown sugar until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla...beat well.
On low speed blend in the flour & salt.

Shape the dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in granulated white sugar to coat lightly.
Place on an ungreased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8 minutes at 350 then add the Hershey Kiss and bake 3-4 more minutes until lightly browned.
Enjoy!

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Holmes County Ohio Lodging Suggests Millersburg Candlelight Church Walk

2011-11-15T14:57:00.003-05:00

If you're looking for Holmes County, Ohio lodging on December 9, 2011, you won't want to miss the Candlelight Church Walk. This year there are five Millersburg churches participating. The walk will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Each church will have historic information, music and refreshments. Along the walk you will visit Millersburg Christian, First Presbyterian, Faith Lutheran, Millersburg Mennonite, and St. Peter Catholic Church. End the evening with a concert by the Walsh University Chamber Singers at Faith Lutheran Church. For more information about the church walk call 330-674-4646.
Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast suggests making this a weekend trip to Holmes County, Ohio. Just a short drive from their lodging establishment you can also participate in other special events such as Shopping Under the Stars in Berlin on the 9th and Christmas Candlelighting in Historic Roscoe Village on the 10th.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Romantic Getaways in Ohio Should Include Ravens Glenn Winery

2011-11-13T10:01:00.009-05:00

If you're searching for romantic getaways in Ohio head over to Amish Country. Stay in a romantic bed and breakfast, do some wine tasting & have dinner at Ravens Glenn Winery, buy some chocolate from Coblentz Chocolate Company, and stop in Guggisberg Cheese for some award-winning cheese.
Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has the Garden Gate Suite which is the most romantic room at the Inn. It is decorated in a Thomas Kincaid garden theme and features a queen bed with a pillow-top mattress. The corner Jacuzzi tub and gas fireplace are musts for a romantic getaway. The luxury linens and bath amenities will pamper you royally! You'll love the homemade breakfast and afternoon cookies too.
Ravens Glenn Winery has some of the best wines in Ohio whether you prefer sweet or dry wines. They are situated on the Tuscarawas River and the dining room has a huge stone fireplace to add to your romantic experience. The menu has so many mouth-watering, Tuscan-style recipes that it will be hard to choose what to eat. Your waitress can help you to choose the perfect wine to accompany your dinner.
Coblentz Chocolate Company is a family owned chocolate factory where you can watch chocolates being made on the weekdays. In the showroom you can choose from boxed selections or you can visit the candy counter and build your own box with your favorites!
Guggisberg Cheese Factory has the best Swiss cheese in the State and it will be hard to choose between their Baby Swiss and regular Swiss cheese . . . oh perhaps one of each.
When you stay at Garden Gate Get-A-Way your innkeepers can make dinner reservations and map out some great places to visit. They can also arrange for special occasion packages in your guest room to put the "icing on the cake" for your romantic getaway in Ohio.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Christmas in Zoar Recommended by Amish Country Inn

2011-11-11T11:26:00.002-05:00

If you would like to take a step back in time with an old-fashioned Christmas event in Ohio, our Amish Country Inn recommends that you visit Christmas in Zoar. This German village was established in 1817 by a group of German separatists who came to the area for religious freedom and built a self sustaining village. On December 3 (from 10-7) and December 4 (from Noon - 5), 2011 you can learn about this historical town while celebrating Christmas. There will be reindeer, horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, arts & crafts fair with 35 vendors, free gingerbread and hot apple cider, private home tours, music and entertainment, and more. At the Zoar Church you will find organ music, high school choirs, a classical guitarist, bell choir, and a string quartet among the musical line up. The $7 admission fee will get you admitted both days so you can make this a weekend visit! Zoar is just a short drive from Amish Country Ohio so you will find plenty of holiday activities and shopping.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Christmas Shoppers Special at Ohio Bed and Breakfast

2011-11-09T14:09:00.003-05:00

Our Ohio bed and breakfast understands that while people are saving money for the holidays they don't always want to spend it on lodging. We've come up with a Christmas Shoppers Special on the week days to make it more affordable to spend more time shopping in Amish Country Ohio. From November 28, 2011 to December 22, 2011 guests who stay in one of our classsic/standard guest rooms from Monday through Thursday will receive a rate of $69 + tax (Reg. $105). Within 5-10 minutes of our Amish Country Ohio bed and breakfast you will discover fine gifts, flea markets, antiques, jewelry, candles, baskets, leather belts, quilts, and more! There are also food items that make great gifts such as locally made wine, cheese, chocolates, jam & jelly, and bakery items. Guests staying at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast can seek the help of the innkeepers to map out an itinerary to specific places to purchase the Christmas gifts that they are looking for. This holiday season shop while staying at our Ohio bed and breakfast.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Cottages in Ohio Recommend J.E.Reeves Christmas Tour in Dover

2011-11-07T10:47:00.002-05:00

Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast and our Cottages in Ohio have found several fun holiday activities for guests including the J.E. Reeves Victorian Home & Museum annual Christmas tour. This 17-room home is the former residence of Dover's first millionaire, Jeremiah E. Reeves. The Carriage House Museum on the same property has a vehicle collection, an exhibit about Canal Dover, and more information about Reeves. Every year they host a Christmas Tour which will take place this year from November 11 through 26, 2011 for Walk-through tours. Guided tours will be from November 27 - December 22, 2011. The tours are daily from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving) and there is an admission fee. Every room in the home is beautifully decorated for the holidays. The home and museum are located at 325 East Iron Ave. (State Route 800) in Dover, Ohio. Check out the cottages website for other Ohio Christmas events.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Autumn Oatmeal Cookies from our Bed and Breakfast Inn of Ohio

2011-10-26T10:39:00.001-04:00

Every season our bed and breakfast Inn of Ohio is looking for new recipes to fit the season. We've come up with these Autumn Oatmeal cookies that include dried cranberries and golden raisins that are sure to please everyone.

Autumn Oatmeal Cookies

1 cup butter Crisco
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
2 t. vanilla
2 cups quick cooking oats
2 cups flour
1 t. baking soda
1 t. baking powder
1 t. salt
1 cup golden raisins
1 cup dried cranberries

Beat the first 5 ingredients in one bowl.
In another bowl combine the remaining ingredients.
Combine the 2 mixtures until just moistened.
Drop by spoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets and bake at
375 degrees for 10 minutes. Yields about 2 dozen cookies.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Berlin Ohio Lodging Suggests Berlin Nativity Parade

2011-10-24T14:07:00.002-04:00

Like many small towns, Berlin, Ohio has an annual Christmas tradition for locals and tourists. Our Berlin, Ohio lodging establishment would like to suggest that you attend the Berlin Nativity Parade on Friday, November 25, 2011. The parade starts at 5:45 p.m. and goes down Main Street/State Route 39/US 62. It is a living nativity parade complete with shepherds, camels, wise men, etc. It will end at The Square in Berlin where there is a stage. A local minister usually reads the Christmas Story and there is candlelight caroling. Afterwards all of the shops in town re-open with holiday sales and refreshments. Just east of town Schrock's Amish Farm usually has sleigh rides and you can also shop at Tis the Season Christmas store. Stay for the weekend because there are many things to see and do in the area including other Christmas open houses.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

For Bird Watching in Ohio you must visit The Wilderness Center

2011-10-22T10:19:00.010-04:00

Many people flock to the Lake Erie area for bird watching in Ohio, but don't overlook The Wilderness Center in Wilmot. This nonprofit place is not part of any goverment agency but is dedicated to wildlife conservation, natural history, nature education, and community service.
It all started in 1964 when a college professor went to Miami and learned of community nature centers. After his return he was dedicated to getting one started in northeast Ohio. Volunteers scouted out various places to put a nature center and chose the Charlie Sigrist estate in Wilmot, Ohio. This property contacted a forest of trees that had never been cut. Some trees were over 300 years old! There are 619 acres of forest, meadow, marsh, and restored prairie. A lake was constructed in 1967 to attract waterfowl and is called Wilderness Lake. When it first opened it was comprised of volunteers. The first professional staff began working in 1965. There is an Intrepretive Building that was built in 1974 that offers learning for all ages. It was expanded in 1998 adding an astronomy education building, maintenance building, plus they did some major site improvements.

Bird lovers will find six trails totaling about ten miles at the Center who owns 2922 acres. When you want a rest check out the bird watching area in the Intrepretive Building. As you look through a glass viewing gallery you will find that they piped in the outdoor bird songs and sounds . . . a really neat affect. They offer bird walks and other nature hikes every month which can help to point out things that you may have missed on your own.

The current calendar includes:

October 2011, Order Bird Seed to pick up November 11-13
November 2, 2011, Wednesday, 10 a.m. Wilderness Walk
November 5, 2011, Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Nature Fest Arts & Crafts Show
November 5, 2011, Sunday, 2 p.m. Seeds, Nuts, Fruit & Such Walk
November 10, 2011, Thursday, 6 p.m. Full Moon Walk: Beaver Moon
November 11-13, 2011, Friday - Sunday, Pick up Bird Seed Orders; Bird Stuff sale
November 17, 2011, Thursday, 2 p.m. Wilderness Walk
November 19, 2011, Saturday, 8 a.m. Bird Walk; 11 a.m. Family Backyard Bird Feeding

The Wilderness Center is located near the Holmes County Amish Country, wineries, cheese factories, shopping, dining, bakeries, etc. Plan an extended stay with an Amish Country, Ohio bed and breakfast when you visit

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Visit Hershberger's Farm & Bakery on Your Next Amish Country Vacation

2011-10-20T10:42:00.002-04:00

Once a local produce stand, Hershberger's has grown to be a bakery and so much more. It is one of the must see places on your next Amish Country Vacation. When you pull in the driveway you won't believe that you are at an Amish-owned business. You will find a bunch of locally grown produce in front of the bakery. Inside you will also find jams, jellies, Ohio maple syrup, cheese, eggs, canned goods and noodles. There is a petting farm where you can feed goats up on a roof top or take a ride on Big Ben, Ohio's largest Belgian work horse. There is a shop with wood products, toys, horse tack, braided rugs and more. There is an outdoor lunch stand offering sandwiches made from local meats and homemade buns, homemade ice cream, etc. Just next to the stand is a covered pavillion with picnic tables to eat your food or baked goods that you purchased. You will usually find someone outside making and selling kettle corn. You can take an Amish buggy ride or Conestoga wagon ride. In the fall there is a pumpkin patch where you will take a horse-drawn wagon in to the patch to pick your own pumpkin.
Hershberger's Farm & Bakery in on State Route 557 about 1 mile south of State Route 39 near Berlin and Charm, Ohio. The have been on that site since 1986. It is currently owned by Daniel Hershberger but was started by his father.
One of the things that they are famous for are Fry Pies. They take a round of pie crust, fill it with a fruit filling, fold it over, crimp the edges and deep fry it. After it is cooked they dip it in a glaze. There are many varieties to choose from. They also offer delicious cinnamon rolls, creme sticks, jelly-filled donuts, homemade breads, and pies. All of the baked goods are made from homemade recipes and been used in the bakery for decades.
This is a seasonal business in that is closes at Christmas time and re-opens at the end of March. They are open daily from Monday - Saturday. Their hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hershberger's is located in the heart of the World's Largest Amish Community. The area also offers fine gifts, flea markets, antiques, museums, historical homes, cheese factories, wineries, chocolate factory, etc. Plan an extended stay at an Ohio bed and breakfast when you visit.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Coblentz Chocolate Company ... a Favorite of Amish Country Ohio Bed and Breakfast

2011-10-18T10:10:00.002-04:00

If you ask Carol Steffey, owner of an Amish Country, Ohio bed and breakfast, what the highlights of Amish Country are her answer will always include Coblentz Chocolate Company. If you have ever driven through Walnut Creek, Ohio, you will see a big, white, Victorian house that is is home to Coblentz Chocolates. Jason & Mary Coblentz started this family-owned business in 1987. The original operation was much smaller since they started with only 3 employees and 40 varieties of chocolate. The have grown so much that they now have 15 full-time and 10 part-time employees and produce 114 varieties of chocolate. There is a viewing gallery where you can watch the chocolates being made! Shoppers have the option of choosing a pre-boxed package or going up to the candy counter and "building their own box" by choosing a variety of their favorite kinds of chocolate. It will be hard to choose between caramels, clusters, peanut butter candies, creams, meltaways, cordials, jellies, barks, and fudge.

There is one thing that you will find in this chocolate factory that you won't find anywhere else . . .Amish Country Road Apples. If you follow a horse through Amish Country you will find "road apples" on the pavement. Coblentz "road apples" are much different even though they look similar. Coblentz makes them with milk chocolate, marshmallows, rice crispies, pretzels , and peanut butter chips!

You will find a retail store in the town of Berlin where you can purchase Coblentz Chocolates as well. So the next time you visit Amish Country, Ohio, stop in Coblentz Chocolate Company.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Berlin Ohio Bed and Breakfast suggests Christmas Tree Festival

2011-10-16T14:14:00.004-04:00

Our Berlin, Ohio bed and breakfast loves to find holiday events to send guests to. The Christmas Tree Festival in Dover is one to check out. The 2011 festival dates are from November 12-20 and the festival is located at Warther Museum. This marks the 18th year of this event that is hosted by the Union Hospital Auxillary. Visitors will find nearly 80 Christmas trees on display from table top trees to 8-foot tall trees. There is also a variety of wreaths available and holiday arrangements. If you purchase a tree they will deliver it to the buyer's home/office the week of November 21st. The festival runs daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Warther Museum normally offers narrated tours of their museum but this will not happen during festival hours. They will offer tours during the festival from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Both the museum and tree festival are worth seeing! There are so many things to see and do in the area from Amish culture to wineries and cheese factories to fine gifts to antiques that you should plan an overnight stay. Check out an Amish Country Bed and Breakfast when you visit.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Experience Holidays at the Mansion in Holmes County Ohio

2011-10-14T11:15:00.008-04:00

Put yourself in the Christmas spirit in Holmes County, Ohio with Holidays at the Mansion this year. This is an annual tradition at the Victorian House Museum in Millersburg. From November 19 - December 31, 2011 the house will be decked out for the holidays with trees, garland, flowers, lights, etc.
L.H. Brightman, a Cleveland industrialist, built this 28-room house in 1902. He lived there four years and moved away. At one time the home was purchased by local citizens and became a sanitarium for two years before it was sold to H.C. Lee, a senior partner of the Lee and Griggs Construction Company. For many years the house remained in the Lee family until it became a part of the Holmes County Historical Society in 1971. This Queen Anne style home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been featured on HGTV in the Victorian Homes Series.
Holidays at the Mansion will kick off on November 19, 2011 with a lighting ceremony and open house from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Tour Hours:
November 19 - December 31, 2011
Monday - Thursday 1 - 4 p.m.
Friday - Sunday 1 - 8 p.m.
(Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
There are many other holiday events and attractions in Holmes County so be sure to book a bed and breakfast stay when you come to visit.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Suzanne Woods Fisher Releases 'A Lancaster County Christmas'

2011-10-12T10:16:00.000-04:00

Christy award-winning author, Suzanne Woods Fisher, has done it again. Her latest book is hot off the presses and it's called 'A Lancaster County Christmas'. As the name implies this book setting is Christmas time in an Amish community. There is a winter storm that brings an "English" couple to an Amish home. The Fitzpatricks have been married for four years and their marriage is drifting apart. The Riehls (Amish couple) have been longing for a baby but have not had one yet. This book brings together two couples from two different worlds and focuses on the true meaning of love at Christmas.
If you would like to meet Suzanne Woods Fisher in person consider an Ohio Amish Country getaway. Suzanne is part of a "Dinner with an Author" package offered at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast the weekend of November 11-13, 2011. Bed and breakfast guests will have dinner with Suzanne Woods Fisher at the home of an Amish neighbor, followed by a book talk about 'A Lancaster County Christmas' and a book signing. Call 330-674-7608 for more information on this package.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast in Millersburg Perfect Stay for Ghost Walks

2011-10-10T14:37:00.013-04:00

This Halloween season getaway to a bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio and participate in Ghost Walks. Historic Downtown Millersburg is featuring Boo in the Burg on October 29, 2011. From 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. where you will find activities such as:

Ghost Walks retelling eerie stories of days gone by and eerie events in some of the historic buildings downtown
Tours of the Victorian House Museum that is reportedly haunted!
Moonlight Madness Sales in the stores
Horse & Carriage rides in the village
Entertainment, food, and more

There is a $5.00 fee for the ghost walk and you can order tickets at (330) 674-3955. Spend the weekend at an Ohio bed and breakfast when you come for these special activites. In addition you will find shopping, Amish culture, museums, tours, cheese factories, wineries and more in the area.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Fall Apple Cinnamon Muffins among Bed and Breakfast Recipes

2011-10-08T16:45:00.000-04:00

Autumn is apple season and if you look for bed and breakfast recipes you might want to try Apple Cinnamon Muffins. These muffins are simple and a big hit with guests at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio.

Apple Cinnamon Muffins
2 1/4 c. flour
1/2 c. sugar
1 T. Baking Powder
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. salt
2 eggs
1/3 c. melted butter
3/4 c. milk
1 1/2 c. chopped apples (peeled)

Topping:
1/3 chopped pecans or walnuts
1/4 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 t. cinnamon

In one bowl combine the 1st 4 ingredients. In another bowl beat eggs, butter, and milk. Add flour mixture to liquid and stir until just moistened. Fold in chopped apples.
Spray mini-muffin tins with Pam and fill 3/4 full with batter. Sprinkle with topping.
Bake 10-12 minutes at 375 degrees. Yields 48 mini muffins.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Wear Pink Clothes on Your Next Ohio Amish Country Getaway

2011-10-03T13:13:00.000-04:00

On your next Ohio Amish Country getaway wear pink clothes! If you visit Amish Country in October 2011 stop in Chalet in the Valley Restaurant near Charm wearing pink and you will receive a discount. This restaurant, along with Guggisberg Cheese Inc., is trying to promote breast cancer awareness. In October a portion of online and phone sales with Guggisberg Cheese will be donated to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. On November 9th the restaurant will host a Passionately Pink for the Cure day with a raffle and games, plus items for sale, where proceeds will go to the Foundation as well.

If you have ever stayed at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast then you know that the innkeepers highly recommend both the cheese factory and the restaurant. Herb Steffey thinks that the only item on the menu is their Smothered Chicken. Carol Steffey likes that dish too, but is very fond of the 5 kinds of schnitzel on the menu. So if you take an Ohio Amish Country getaway in October then wear pink and eat at Chalet in the Valley Restaurant.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Amish Country Inn in Berlin Shares Info on Tis the Season Mario Hausdorfer Glass Ornaments

2011-09-30T10:45:00.000-04:00

Book a room at our Amish Country Inn of Berlin the weekend of November 19, 2011. Tis the Season Christmas Store in Berlin will have Mario Hausdorfer on hand to demonstrate how he makes blown glass Christmas ornaments.
Mario is a decendent of the Hausdorfer Glas Manufaktur, a family owned workshop, from Haselbach where German glass blowing began in 1597. He is a 5th generation ornament maker. He watched his family making ornaments as a child and by age 15 he was blowing glass. The Hausdorfer workshop has the use of over 1000 different molds.
Tis the Season, Ohio's largest year-round Christmas store, has featured Mario Hausdorfer in the past and will have him back on November 19th. You can view a video of Mario making an ornament. Besides this special event with Hausdorfer you will find every kind of Christmas ornament imaginable, trees, nativity sets, lights, outdoor decorations, and more!
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

10 Things You Can Buy For Sweetest Day in Amish Country Ohio

2011-09-28T11:22:00.001-04:00

There are so many things to do and places to shop that I've come up with my Top 10 Sweetest Day Gifts from Amish Country in Ohio:

Gift Certificate to Getaway in Ohio for a Romantic Weekend
Box of Coblentz Chocolates (Truffles, Caramels, Clusters, etc.)
Wine Gift Basket from Ravens Glenn Winery or Breitenbach Winery
Gourmet Dinner for 2 at Table Restaurant in Millersburg
A Cheese & Trail Bologna Gift Basket from Guggisberg Cheese
Some hand-dipped, hand-carved candles from L & E Star Candles
A Heart-shaped tray or Photo Album from Wendell August Forge
Gift basket of Handmade Soaps, Bath Salts, or Men's Shaving Bars from Amish Country Essentials
One of a kind Garden Art piece from Bowden Bells
Piece of Art from P. Graham Dunn Gallery in Dalton

For more places to shop for Sweetest Day gifts in Holmes County, Ohio, check out our website.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Get Escorted on Your Next Ohio Amish Country Getaway

2011-09-26T10:47:00.005-04:00

As the weather gets colder, and the snow starts to fall, you can get escorted around Holmes County on your next Ohio Amish Country Getaway. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast is offering a new tour exclusively for their guests. It is a "Highlights of Amish Country Tour". The itinerary includes some of the most popular places in Amish Country such as Tis the Season (Ohio's Largest Year-Round Christmas Store), Coblentz Chocolate Company (Where you can see chocolates being made and purchase some to take home), Carlisle House of Gifts (one of the finest gift shops in the area), Lehmans (originally opened to serve the Amish it offers so many more household and gift items today), Ashery (bulk foods store), Heini's Cheese (one of the largest cheese factories with over 50 samples of cheese), Pleasant View Furniture (an Amish furniture store), and Wendell August Forge (only 2 in the USA and we've got one here). Some stops may be substituted due to weather or store closures. The tour is 4 hours in length which allows you time to still visit other places on your own. Guests have 3 room types to choose from and advance reservations are required for tours/rooms.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Cheese is a USA Champion

2011-09-24T14:05:00.004-04:00

Holmes County, Ohio and the surrounding area is home of many cheese makers. One Ohio cheese maker, located in the Doughty Valley Amish community took the United States Grand Champion award in 2011. In addition they took the Grand Champion award at the 2011 State Fair. That cheese maker is Guggisberg Cheese.
The original owner, Alfred Guggisberg, studied cheese making in Switzerland starting at age 16. He moved to the USA in 1947 and became known in the area as an exceptional cheese maker. He took over an operation known as Doughty Valley Cheese and it became Guggisberg Cheese in 1950. Their retail store is located on State Route 557 just a couple of miles south of State Route 39/US 62. Herb & Carol Steffey at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast send their B&B guests there, especially for Swiss and Baby Swiss cheese.
Guggisberg has been awarded the title of Ohio Grand Champion Cheese Maker several times since 2002. They have also won awards at the Grand Dairy Expo in 2007 and 2008. Their next competition will be at the Sugarcreek Swiss Festival on September 30 - October 1, 2011.
Just across the street they have a restaurant, Chalet in the Valley, that is famous for their Swiss specialties such as Cheese Fondue, Schnitzel, Spatzle, and more! Many of the recipes incorporate Guggisberg Cheese. This is one of the favorite restaurants of the owners at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast. The next time you are in the Doughty Valley, near Charm, Ohio, stop in and check out this exceptional cheese.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Choose a Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Ohio for Sweetest Day

2011-09-22T11:39:00.005-04:00

Sweetest Day is more than a "Hallmark holiday" and it is coming up on October 15, 2011. Why not choose a romantic bed and breakfast in Ohio to celebrate with your sweetheart? Sweetest Day actually dates back to 1922! Herbert Birch Kingston decided to do something special for local orphans, shut-ins, elderly, and other people that may have felt a little forgotten over holidays or other times of the year. Kingston worked for a Cleveland, Ohio candy company so he decided to give the gift of candy to these people. Many local candy makers in Cleveland picked up on Kingston's lead and began giving candy and called it the "Sweetest Day of the Year". Back then over 10,000 boxes of candy were distributed to over 26 charities in the first year. As time went by, Sweetest Day became more romance focused to include candy, romantic dinners, flowers, and more.
If you come to Holmes County, Ohio you will find Coblentz Chocolate Company that offers creams, caramels, truffles, clusters, and more! For Sweetest Day they offer chocolate-dipped strawberries that are absolutely scrumptious! To make the occasion especially romantic book at room at a bed and breakfast and stay over night.
If you cannot take your sweetheart away for Sweetest Day perhaps you can follow in the foot steps of Herbert Birch Kingston have give some chocolates or candy to some local orphans, shut-ins, or elderly people. Now you know the history of Sweetest Day.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast in Millersburg Ohio Recommends Antique Festival 2011

2011-09-20T10:33:00.001-04:00

The 49th Holmes County Antique Festival is just down the road from a bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio. There are so many activities you will want to spend 2-3 nights in the area. In historic downtown Millersburg you will entertain yourself with 2 days of antiques, arts & crafts, demonstrations, food, parades and more.

Saturday, October 8, 2011:
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Antique Market and Arts & Crafts fair
12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Antique and Classic Car Show
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Entertainment on the Small Stage
3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entertainment on the Small Stage
4:30 p.m. Antique, Classic Car & Fireman's Parade on Jackson Street
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Route 62 on the Large Stage

Sunday, October 9. 2011:
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Antique Market and Arts & Crafts fair
12:30 p.m. Lumber Jack Show on the Large Stage
12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. Smokin Fez Monkeys on the Small Stage
2:00 p.m. Grand Parade on Jackson Street

There will be plenty of food, cornhole, queen contests, and other activities to keep you busy. While you are in town you can visit the many antique shops, Bookworm shop with used books, and Amish Country Essentials for homemade soaps and bath salts. Take time to walk through the historic village and see all of the architecture and historical monuments/buildings. Tour the Victorian House Museum that was featured on HGTV and is also haunted according to Ohio's Paranormal Research Group. Another museum in town is the Millersburg Glass Museum. Millersburg Glass is a collectors item and even the Queen of England has some Millersburg Glass.
Millersburg, Ohio is in the heart of the world's largest Amish community. Take some time to visit the Amish-owned businesses, cheese factories, chocolate factory, museums, animal ranches, and other attractions in the are when you visit the Antique Festival.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast Recipes Include Easiest Ever Pumpkin Muffins

2011-09-18T11:49:00.001-04:00

Bed and Breakfast Recipes from Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Amish Country Ohio include Easiest Ever Pumpkin Muffins:

Ingredients:
1/2 c. butter, softened
1 c. sugar
1 1/4 c. canned pumpkin
2 eggs
2 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. nutmeg
1/4 t. salt
1 c. milk

Topping:
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 t. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375
Cream butter, sugar, and pumkin together until smooth. Add eggs.
In a separate bowl blend flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
Add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture alternatively with milk until just moistened.
Fill muffin papers 3/4 full with batter and sprinkle with topping.
Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Fall Tradition of Apple Butter Stirring at Holmes County Ohio Amish Tourist Attractions

2011-09-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

If you visit Holmes County, Ohio Amish Tourist Attractions in the fall months you will find a tasty annual tradition, Apple Butter Stirring. One of the first places to offer apple butter stirring is Yoder's Amish Home located at 6050 State Route 515 between Walnut Creek and Winesburg, Ohio. They start with a 30 gallon copper kettle over an open fire. You won't believe how many apples go in to a batch this size. Visitors can have a turn at stirring and try a sample of apple butter. They offer this on Saturdays, October 1, 8, and 15, 2011. On the 15th there will be some added events such as pumpkin butter stirring and homemade soap making demonstrations.
This farm was originally an Amish home that was purchased by Eli and Gloria Yoder in 1972. In 1983 it opened for tours after being renovated. Eli was raised Old Order Amish and left at the age of 21, so the Yoders are able to share information about how the Amish live with visitors that come to the farm.
When you visit there are various tour options. There is a barn that dates back to 1885. You can tour 2 Amish homes (that are no longer occupied) and learn how the Old Order and New Order Amish live. In one of the homes is a bakery where you may purchase homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, cookies, jam and jelly. There is also a school house on the property where you will learn all about Amish education which ends with the 8th grade. You can even take an Amish buggy ride while you are there! Any visit to Yoder's is both fun and educational but on Apple Butter Stirring days it is even more enjoyable.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Bed and Breakfast Suggests Getting 'Fired Up' this Fall

2011-09-14T10:16:00.002-04:00

One Ohio bed and breakfast is always looking for new things for guests to visit when they come to Amish Country. This fall there is one attraction to get 'fired up' about. That would be Holmes County Pottery. This business is home to Ohio's largest wood-fired kiln. It takes 8 days to load the kiln when they want to fire it up. It is such a huge process that they only fire the kiln 3-4 times per year. They have been busy working on some new works of art and will host a kiln opening on September 23, 24, and 25, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are located on Country Road 373 in Big Prairie a short way off of State Route 514. You will find everything from bird houses to ornaments to bowls to lamps, etc. While you are in Amish Country be sure to visit some of the Amish Cottage industry businesses, cheese factories, chocolate factory, museums, and art galleries.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Spice Up Your Life With A Murder Mystery Weekend in Ohio

2011-09-12T18:42:00.000-04:00

If you're looking for something different to do on a getaway to beat the boredom of checking in a place with 2 double beds with a nightstand in the middle then consider a murder mystery weekend in Ohio. At Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast gets actually play a murder suspect complete with costume and a motive! Starting with New Years Eve 2011 there are some all-new themes to choose from.
December 31st has the theme of a Mediterranean cruise;
January 6-8 is the theme of New York's Little Italy at an Italian Bistro;
February 17-19, a post Valentine mystery, has a wedding theme;
March 2-4 takes you to the setting of a Colorado ski area;
April 13-15 you can put on our hula skirt for this Hawaiian Luau;
May 4-6 we'll take you back to the 1950's for yet another murder mystery.
There is no acting experience necessary to participate. You will receive your character information in advance and the night of the mystery everything is facilitated by your hosts. The murder mysteries are played in rounds where you will be served a different course of food during each round.
Visit the website for details and pricing for these Ohio Amish Country getway packages.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Fall is the Perfect Season for Romantic Getaways in Ohio

2011-09-04T16:25:00.000-04:00

Fall colors, fall harvest, hot spiced cider, etc., make the perfect time for romantic getaways in Ohio. When the air is cool and crisp grab your sweetheart and head off to an Ohio bed and breakfast for a romantic weekend. Relax in a Jacuzzi tub, sip some wine in front of a fireplace, and go for a stroll to take in the fall colors. During the day take a drive to watch farm fields being harvested and see the leaves changing colors in the trees as you head toward an Ohio winery to do some wine tasting. Stop by one of the local restaurants and try some homemade soup or some comfort food for dinner. End the day sitting around a campfire and sip on some wine that you purchased during the day. Keep in mind that Fall is a busy time for lodging, restaurants and attractions in Ohio so make advance reservations before you go.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast near Sugarcreek Ohio suggests 2011 Ohio Swiss Festival

2011-08-30T10:58:00.009-04:00

After spending time as a child in Germany, and visiting Switzerland, a bed and breakfast near Sugarcreek, Ohio likes to visit the Ohio Swiss Festival. Sugarcreek is known as the "Little Switzerland" of Ohio and every fall they hold an annual Swiss Festival. The 2011 festival will be held September 30 - October 1st. There will be a Kiddie Parade on Friday and the Grand Parade on Saturday. There are multiple stages around town to offer musical entertainment. On Saturday afternoon there they will have those huge, long Swiss Alphorns that will be played as part of the entertainment. There are some contests that are native to Switzerland such as Steintossen (throwing a 138 pound stone), a yodeling contest, and a Swiss costume contest. No festival is complete without food and drinks and this festival is no exception. At the firehouse there is wine and cheese sampling, there are several restaurants in town, plus you will find food vendors. A Craft Tent will be set up both days and offers hand-crafted items. Whether you plan a day trip or a weekend getaway there are things for the entire family at the Swiss Festival.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Your Romantic Getaway in Ohio or Honeymoon Should Include Reservations at Table

2011-08-28T15:09:00.008-04:00

So you have planned a romantic getaway in Ohio, or a honeymoon, but where do you dine for this special vacation? Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way suggests that all of their guests have at least one meal at Table Restaurant. This unbelievable restaurant is located in Millersburg and is the serves the kind of food you would expect to find in a major city. Kent Welsh, co-owner and chef, has some pretty impressive credentials. Not only has he launched Ritz Carlton restaurants in Maui, Aspen, Laguna Niguel, Denver, & Washington D.C., helped Wolfgang Puck open restaurants in California, but he has catered Emmy and Grammy Awards and Julia Child's 80th birthday party. He has also worked at L.A.'s famous La Brea Bakery and wait until you taste what he bakes for you! The most shocking thing about this wonderful restaurant is the prices. You would expect this kind of food to cost about $35-$45 an entree but most dinners are $14-$16. Go with an appetite because you won't want to miss out on his mouth-watering appetizers or delicious desserts. This restaurant does not have a liquor license but you won't care when you taste Kent's non-alcoholic cocktails. Depending on the time of year you may find something with Key Lime, Passion Fruit or Cranberry flavors. The restaurant menu changes quarterly so there is always something new to try! This cozy restaurant has only 9-10 tables so reservations are highly recommended. You can contact Table directly or ask your innkeepers to make reservations for you.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Take Barbecue Cooking Classes on your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio

2011-08-26T14:49:00.005-04:00

There are lots of things to do in Holmes County, Ohio and the surrounding area, but did you know that you can take barbecue cooking classes on your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio? Lehmans in Kidron has teamed up with Old Carolina Barbecue Company and will have cooking classes. Old Carolina will have their barbecue experts on hand and will teach you some tricks of the trade. You will learn how to make flavorful rubs for ribs. They will also show you how to grill pizza, desserts, and more. The classes are:

September 8, 15, and 22, 2011 from 6-8 p.m.
The cost: $25 per person (includes samples)

You can contact Lehmans directly to register for the classes.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed and Breakfast Inn of Ohio Shares Simple Zucchini Muffin Recipe

2011-08-24T10:54:00.003-04:00

Summer seems to be the time of year when you find more zucchini in the garden than you know what to do with it. This simple muffin recipe is delicious and they disappear quickly. Visit our bed and breakfast inn of Ohio and you may find them on the menu:

HOMEMADE ZUCCHINI MUFFINS

2 c. flour
1 c. sugar
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. baking powder
2 t. ground cinnamon
1 c. golden raisins
1/2 t. salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 c. vegetable oil
1 T. vanilla extract
2 c. shredded zucchini

Preheat oven to 375. Line 24 muffin tins with baking cups.

In one bowl blend the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, raisins, and salt.

In another bowl combine the eggs, oil, vanilla.

Combine the 2 mixtures until moistened and gently fold in the zucchini.

Fill muffin cups 3/4 full and bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Mt.Hope Farmers Produce Auction Buffet in Holmes County Ohio

2011-08-22T13:24:00.001-04:00

Tantalize your taste buds at Mrs. Yoder's Kitchen on August 31, 2011. This Ohio Amish Country favorite restaurant is featuring a Mt. Hope Farmers Produce Auction Buffet from 3-6 p.m. Amish Country is known for home-grown produce but wait until you see the hot buffet, salad bar, and dessert bar this evening! You will find butternut squash, fried zucchini, cabbage casserole, cheesy bacon cauliflower blend, fried green beans, rope sausage with peppers & onions, pickled beets, pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, pumpkin cake, PLUS wedding chicken, popcorn shrimp, salad bar and dessert bar. No one leaves Mrs. Yoder's hungry and most return because the food is excellent.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Harvest Festival and Rib Cook-Off are part of Ohio Weekend Getaways

2011-08-20T14:58:00.003-04:00

Berlin, Ohio has combined two events to include in your Ohio weekend getaways. The first is an annual rib cook-off where local restaurants and groups compete to have the title of Best Ribs in Town for the next year. While strolling the streets of Berlin you can stop at the various stations where they are cooking ribs and purchase ribs to judge for yourself. The 2nd event is a Fall Harvest Festival. This event includes a parade, sidewalk sales at the shops in town, and entertainment. The 2011 Harvest Festival and Rib Cook-off is September 10th. While you are here pick up some fall decorations, squash, pumpkins and more. On Main Street (State Route 39) you will find craft malls, antiques, fabrics, quilts, baskets, leather, a general store and more! Take an Amish buggy ride while you're in town too. Berlin, Ohio is centrally located in Holmes County so you are close to visit attractions in Walnut Creek, Sugarcreek, Mt. Hope, Charm, and Millersburg as well.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Summer in Ohio Makes a Great Bird Watching Vacation

2011-08-18T14:29:00.012-04:00

The weather is warm, the flowers are in bloom, and this is the perfect time for a bird watching vacation in Ohio. In northeast Ohio you will find a hidden treasure called The Wilderness Center near Wilmot. They have 6 nature trails to choose from and a wonderful nature center. You'll walk around Wilderness Lake on the Pond Trail. Take a boardwalk over wetlands on Sigrist Woods Trail. Hike through an old apple orchard in lowlands on Fox Creek Trail. The Belden & Blake Trail is a wooded trail where you will find spring flowers and a marsh. Walk along a ridge in upland forest on Sugarcreek Trail. Find yourself in total solitude walking through prairie and woodlands on Pioneer Path. The different terrain make these trails a bird watchers paradise. When you need to relax you will find a bench in the nature center where you look out a huge glass window at bird feeders and many birds right in front of you. They have piped the bird calls inside so you can enjoy a symphony of tweets. There are picnic areas so pack a lunch and enjoy an entire day there. Check out their calendar for special hikes such as:

August 20, 8 a.m. Bird Walk
August 20, 1 p.m. Butterfly Walk
August 23, 2 p.m. Butterfly Walk
August 30, 10:30 a.m. Butterfly Walk
September 4, 2-4 p.m., Wildflower Exploration
September 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wildflower Exploration
September 7, 10 a.m., Wilderness Walk
September 15, 2 p.m., Wilderness Walk
The Wilderness Center is near the world's largest Amish Community so there are many other activities to warrant a vacation in the area.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate at Ohio Cottages

2011-08-16T13:51:00.003-04:00

When the owners of award-winning Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast decided to build Ohio cottages they had a theme in mind. The cottages had to be luxurious, romantic, and a place for people to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. With nature themes, Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way offer 2 choices: Falls Kiss Cottage or Springs Desire Cottage. Rest on the 23' porch facing a field where horses graze. Relax in front of the peninsula fireplace and watch the flames dancing. Rejuvenate in the Roman-style Jacuzzi tub with big, white pillars on each side and tile surround. When you walk in the door you will be greeted with a bottle of Sparkling Juice, a cheese & cracker plate and a chocolate sampler from Coblentz Chocolate Company. Your kitchenette includes a mini-refrigerator and microwave if you want to chill your favorite beverage and warm up a snack. If you want to take yourself in to a state of total relaxation then have your hosts book a Couples Massage right in your cottage when you stay. When you wake up in the morning indulge in some homemade coffeecake, fruit, juice and some coffee before starting your day. If you must, you will find satellite television in the cottage, but if rest is what you are looking for you may want to leave it turned off. The next time you want rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation in a cabin or cottage offering luxury in Ohio, check out Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Don't Wait For an Anniversary to Plan a Ohio Romantic Vacation

2011-08-14T11:31:00.002-04:00

Remember the "olden days" when guys would show up at a lady's door with a bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates "just because"? You don't have to wait for a special occasion to plan something romantic. In today's world where people work long hours you can really surprise that special someone with an Ohio romantic vacation. One of the things that bed and breakfast owners are good at is helping people plan that romantic vacation. They can arrange for a Couple Massage, flowers or chocolates in the guest room, map out directions to a winery where you can do some wine tasting, make reservations for some fine dining, etc. The other nice thing about a bed and breakfast is that you will find a variety of rooms and amenities for all price budgets. Pick up the phone today and make reservations to spark of the romance in your life with an Ohio romantic vacation.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Holmes County Ohio Lodging Recommends a Visit to Rolling Ridge Ranch

2011-08-12T10:11:00.001-04:00

If you are not sure what to see and do when you go to Amish Country there is one Holmes County, Ohio lodging establishment that can help. Herb & Carol Steffey, the owners of Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, make a point of getting to know their area. Bed and breakfast guests can ask for recommendations on where to eat, shop, learn about the area, etc. When summer comes, one place they always recommend is Rolling Ridge Ranch. This is an exotic animal farm with over 500 animals and 100 species from around the world. There are two ways to explore this attraction: (1) in your own car, or (2) on a horse-drawn wagon. Herb & Carol suggest the horse-drawn wagon. This option includes a bucket of animal feed. The wagon travels a 2 mile path making several stops where the animals approach the wagon to eat right out of your bucket! The ride is about 1 hour and you will never get closer to the animals than this. "This is better than any zoo I have ever been to being able to get that close to the animals.", said Carol. For first hand information about exploring Holmes County, Ohio, be sure to make reservations at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

New Ohio Wine Tours

2011-08-10T12:44:00.000-04:00

More and more wineries are popping up in the State of Ohio and people are flocking to explore everything from exotic Watermelon wine to traditional Chardonnay. If you don't want to limit your sampling because you have to drive then check out Ohio wine tours. Something very new in Holmes County, Ohio, is that Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast purchased their own tour bus to take B&B guests on various tours. Some of those tours include Ohio wine tours. Over the winter months you can take an afternoon tour that features a winery tour, wine tasting, and a 5-course dinner with 5 wines. Looking ahead to 2012 they have planned all-day wine tasting tours to Ohio wineries and Ohio cheese factories. You'll love having the designated driver to chauffer you around as you sample. Your tour includes lunch and dinner on the road as well. These tours are exclusively for bed and breakfast guests so you won't have to deal with big crowds of people on the wine tours. For more information on these wine tasting weekends be sure to check out this Ohio Amish Country getaway website.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Country Getaway Features Author Serena B. Miller

2011-08-03T10:40:00.012-04:00

One Ohio Amish Country getaway offers more to guests than just a room. They have "Dinner with an Author" packages, wine tours, murder mysteries, and more. Author, Serena B. Miller, will join bed and breakfast guests the weekend of April 20-22, 2012 for "Dinner with an Author". She is releasing a new book called, 'An Uncommon Grace'.
About the book:
A military nurse moves to a farm community in Ohio hoping to get past her experiences in Afghanistan in the war. She finds herself helping an Old Order Amish family and finds herself falling for a single man in the family. The Amish young man begins to question what he has been taught all of these years and knows that he could be shunned if he were to leave the Amish for the "English" nurse. This love story shows how one can be torn between love and family responsibility.
This is not the first book by Serena Miller. She has written 'Love Finds You in Sugarcreek Ohio'. Sugarcreek is just down the road from the bed and breakfast where she will give her book talk. Other new books will be released in 2011 and 2012.
For more information about this package visit the website of the bed and breakfast.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

August 6, 2011 is the Day to Visit Millersburg Antiques in Ohio

2011-07-31T14:42:00.005-04:00

If you love to shop in Millersburg for Antiques in Amish Country Ohio then mark your calendar for August 6, 2011. It is the next date for 'Antiques in the Alley'. Not only will you find several antique shops on Main Street (SR 39/US62) in downtown Millersburg, but you will find antique sales along the streets, in the back door area of the shops, plus some antique dealers set up booths in parking lots and alleys. Some craft vendors will be in town for this special event. The sale will run on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. rain or shine. They are expecting 50 antique vendors to shop with plus craft demonstrations on the Courthouse Lawn. While you are in town visit some of the local shops such as Amish Country Essentials where they make soap, bath salts, and bath bombs.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Vacation Package Includes Dinner with Suzanne Woods Fisher

2011-07-29T10:06:00.003-04:00

Looking for something new for your next Ohio vacation package? How about a dinner with a famous author? Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio, has teamed up with Suzanne Woods Fisher for an exciting evening. Guests will check-in on Friday, explore Amish Country Ohio on Saturday, and then have dinner with the author on Saturday evening. The dinner with Suzanne Woods Fisher will be in the home of an Amish neighbor to the B&B. After dinner Suzanne will give a book talk about her latest book, 'A Lancaster County Christmas'. Guests will get the chance to participate in a question and answer period before having Suzanne sign of copy of the book for them to take home. For more details and pricing visit the bed and breakfast website.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

New Wine Tasting Weekends in Ohio Amish Country

2011-07-27T19:02:00.000-04:00

Starting in November 2011 there are new wine tasting weekends in Ohio Amish Country. Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has their own tour bus to take B&B guests on various tours. Starting in November 2011 through Spring 2012 they are offering 1 wine tasting weekend per month. Guests will check-in on a Friday, have free time to explore Saturday morning, and depart on the tour in the afternoon. The first stop will be Heini's Gourmet Market in Sugarcreek. Guests will be treated to a wine tasting and have time to shop and sample Heini's Cheese. There is musical entertainment on Saturday afternoons while at this stop. The next stop is Pearl Valley Cheese where guests are encouraged to try different types of cheese, some they may have never tried before. The ultimate destination will be Ravens Glenn Winery where the group will start with a winery tour, then participate in a wine tasting, and end with a 5 course dinner with a glass of wine to compliment each course. After a leisure breakfast on Sunday guests will head for home. Visit the bed and breakfast website for details and pricing.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

From Our Bed and Breakfast: Things to See & Do in Sugarcreek, Ohio

2011-07-13T14:27:00.005-04:00

Our bed and breakfast is located near Sugarcreek, Ohio and you will find everything from history to shopping there! The history of Sugarcreek includes German and Swiss immigrants and today it is known as "Little Switzerland". If you are a history buff you need to visit the Alpine Hills Museum! You will find 3 floors of artifacts dating back to the 1800's. Years ago you may have come across shops with Swiss imports but today you will find everything from bulk foods to bakeries to gift shops. Be sure to visit Broad Run Cheese that is one of the oldest cheese factories in Ohio. Ask for a sample of their award-winning Swiss cheese while you are there. They also have Swiss Heritage Winery in the same building where you can do wine sampling. Just across the street you can visit Ohio's 2nd largest winery, Breitenbach Winery. Whether you prefer sweet, fruit flavored wine or a dry Cabernet you will find it at this winery that is located across the street from Broad Run Cheese. Tantalize your tase buds in the village at Swiss Village Bulk Foods. This store carries bulk foods, natural foods, ice cream, sandwiches, kitchen gadgets, and more. If you're hungy stop in Beachy's Country Chalet in the village. They offer both Swiss and Amish cooking. Swiss Village Quilts & Crafts is another local shop that you will like. In addition to selling authentic, Amish-made quilts they also have a P.Graham Dunn gallery on site. Hop on the Swiss Valley Trolley from Thursday - Saturday to get around town. The driver is very knowledgable about the shops and history of the area. Collectors Decanters & Steins has more than 3000 decanters and steins to see. Very few people know about the decanter museum in the back of the store. Ask to see it the shady past of this building. You can also tour the home of the 1st Amish settler in Sugarcreek, the John S. Yoder Home. If you need some snacks to take back to your bed and breakfast be sure to stop in Heini's Gourmet Market. Many of the foods and snack items are made in Ohio!
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Holmes County Ohio Amish Tourist Attractions Make a Great Summer Vacation

2011-07-11T10:56:00.000-04:00

You may plan a trip to Holmes County, Ohio to visit Amish tourist attractions this summer but know that there is so much more to do. You can plan several day trips in the area and visit something different every day. Holmes County is home to the world's largest Amish community and there are so many Amish businesses including candle makers, basket makers, furniture builders, quilt makers, general stores, bulk foods, etc. In addition the area is home to fine gifts, flea markets, animal ranches, museums, bakeries, cheese factories, chocolate factory, and more. One itinerary might include Amish culture, Lehmans, pottery shops, animal ranch and more. Yet another itinerary will visit places like Coblentz Chocolates, Walnut Creek Cheese, an Auction, Antiques, Tis the Season Christmas store, and more. You can use our area as home base for visiting such attractions as the Mansfield Reformatory, Stan Hywet Mansion & Gardens, Roscoe Village, Longaberger Baskets, and the Village of Zoar.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Romantic Places in Ohio's Amish Country

2011-07-10T17:45:00.001-04:00

While some people visit Holmes County to shop and just need a bed to sleep in others are looking for romantic places in Ohio's Amish Country. We would like to feature the Garden Gate Suite at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in this blog. The usual checklist for romantic getaways in Ohio usually include a Jacuzzi tub for 2, a fireplace, a peaceful setting, luxury amenities, and the option to purchase a romance package or a couples massage. The Garden Gate Suite is so much more! When you arrive you can kick your feet up in the reclining, LazyBoy chairs while you sip on some wine. Next you may want to swing on a porch swing in the gardens or perhaps hop in the Jacuzzi tub and use some of the special packets called InSpaRation that are provided for you. Need a nap? Slide in to 600 thread-count, cotton-sateen sheets on a pillow-top bed mattress and drift off in to a peaceful slumber. In the evening you have the choice of gathering around the evening campfire with other guests and watch the stars come out or relaxing in front of the fireplace in your guest room. When you awaken the next morning you're going to love the luxury soaps, shampoo, bath gel and other special bath amenities in your shower. When you climb out we have some soft, luxurious bath robes in wrap up in. Before you begin your day in Amish Country indulge in our homemade breakfast that is made from scratch in our own kitchen each day. This guest room is located on the end of the house and sits by itself offering more privacy on your romantic rendevous. If you are looking for even more privacy be sure to check out Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way on the same property. If your idea of romance includes wine and cheese then let your innkeepers map out a wine & cheese trail in the area to try locally made cheese and sample award-winning wines.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Berlin Ohio Bed and Breakfast shares Blueberry Banana Bread Recipe

2011-06-30T10:52:00.003-04:00

If you are out picking blueberries then you will want to check out this "easy as a breeze" recipe from a Berlin, Ohio bed and breakfast. The recipe is for Blueberry Banana Bread:
2 c. flour
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 t. Vanilla
2 medium, ripe bananas, mashed
1 c. blueberries

Combine the first 3 ingredients in a small bowl. In a large mixing bowl combine the next 5 ingredients until well blended. Add the first bowl of dry ingredients to the larger bowl and mix until just moistened. Gently fold in the blueberries. Pour in to a greased bundt pan and bake at 350 for 45-55 minutes depending on your oven. Cool for 10 minutes before turning on to a plate.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bluebirds and Buggies: Bird Watching in Ohio

2011-06-28T16:38:00.001-04:00

You don't have to flock to the shores of Lake Erie for some good bird watching in Ohio. Head over to Amish Country Ohio. The Wilderness Center in Wilmot, Ohio offers 6 hiking trails, a Nature Center, plus picnic areas. Some trails are in wetlands, some in a prairie, some around a lake, so bring your binoculars to check out the many varieties of birds. The trails range in length from 3/4 mile to 1 3/4 miles. In the Nature Center you can relax in a quiet corner that is all glass windows to view birds. They have piped in the bird sounds from outside so you not only get to view a variety of birds, but you can hear their beautiful songs too! The Wilderness Center offers bird walks and nature hikes with a Naturalist on specific dates so that you can learn more about the wildlife and nature that you see along your hike. They also have specialty programs like Moonlight Serenade where you take a walk with musical ensembles in various locations around the lake or Nature Center. Your ticket treats you to some wine or you can purchase a picnic basket. All of these programs are great options for bird watching in Ohio. The Wilderness Center is located in the middle of an Amish area so allow time to eat, shop, and explore Amish Country, Ohio while you are there.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Cottages Warn: The Indians are Coming!

2011-06-22T11:27:00.001-04:00

You may not see any cowboys in Ohio Amish Country but keep your eyes peeled for Indians from July 8-10, 2011, warns some Ohio Cottages. It is the Annual Mohican Indian Pow-Wow in Loudonville! Traditionally an Indian Pow-Wow was a gathering for where Indians would dance, sing, and renew friendships. It was also a way to educate and share traditions passed down through the generations. Today it is very similar. The public is invited to the Pow-Wow in Loudonville. Over the 3-day gathering you will experience things like tomahawk throwing, fire starting demonstrations, tribal dancing, hoop dancing, ceremonies, story telling, and more. See colorful costumes, be able to buy Native American crafts, and eat some great food.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Don't Have to Dial 411 to Hear God Calling

2011-06-20T13:52:00.001-04:00

At our Berlin, Ohio lodging establishment we are often asked why the Amish community doesn't fall apart when they see computers, electricity, and modern, worldly inventions. The Amish community is not falling apart and fact is is "super-glued" strong. The #1 reason for that is faith. The Amish feel a strong connection to God and that is a bond that no man can break.
One neighbor explained that when tourists see toddlers running around their yard without adult supervision that we should not worry because God is watching over that child. They explained that if for some reason that child ran in front of a car to retrieve a ball and got hit by the car that it would be God's will if they lived or died.
The Amish community is dedicated to living a faithful life. God and family always come before anything else. An example of this is when a local Amish-owned business asked their emloyees to work on Saturdays for 1/2 day for one month to get a job produced. The employees replied that they preferred to have Saturdays off to spend time with their family. The customer was told that it was impossible to get the job completed in one month. Another example of this is weddings and funerals. We have stopped in local businesses on a weekday only to find a closed sign on the door. The owners went to a wedding or funeral and did not worry about how much money they lost that day in order to attend a wedding or funeral.
We all know that no man is perfect and the Amish community has its problems. Their faith in God and commitment to family helps them to work through any struggles. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the entire world put God and family first?
If you want to learn more about the Amish culture we encourage you to travel to Holmes County, Ohio and take a tour or visit some of the area attractions such as Behalt. Behalt is a mural that depicts the history of the Mennonite and Amish faith.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Amish Country Lodging is the Perfect Summer Vacation

2011-06-18T11:35:00.003-04:00

Some people like water parks and big city life but Ohio Amish country lodging can help you experience the perfect summer vacation. Many people have stressful lives and jobs and need to vacation where you can slow down and let your cares melt away. In Holmes County Ohio Amish Country life is much slower. The area is home to the world's largest Amish community. In the evening you can swing on a porch swing or rock in a glider. You can take time to smell the flowers. You can even pamper yourself with a calming massage at your lodging establishment. During the day you will discover gift shops, wineries, cheese factories, museums, historical homes, animal ranches, flea markets, auctions, antiques, and Amish culture. You can be as active or relaxed as you want. There is always plenty of time to kick your feet up for some stress-free time. There are dining options for every palette from fast food to fine dining and everything else in between. Some bed and breakfasts can arrange for you to have dinner in an Amish home. Talk to your innkeeper to choose some special options to help you de-stress while you visit Ohio Amish Country.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Visit Black Diamond Golf Course on your Ohio Golf Getaways

2011-06-16T14:14:00.001-04:00

When you are planning Ohio golf getaways be sure to look in the Millersburg area. Black Diamond Golf Course has received awards of being 1 of the Top 25 Golf Courses in Ohio and 100 Greatest Golf Courses in the USA. This course is not for the beginner! The course has Ohio's only Par 6 hole that is 720 yards. The pros even find this course a challenge. It has beautiful, rolling hills with natural rock formations and ponds and waterfalls. The views from the various holes are breathtaking. You have the option of booking golf & lodging packages with places like Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast or if you are just coming down for the day then visit their website for possible discount offers. The golf course is located in the heart of Amish Country, Ohio at 7500 Township Road 103, Millersburg, Ohio. It is just off of State Route 83 south of the Village of Millersburg.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio Should Include a Visit to Yoder's Amish Home

2011-06-14T11:07:00.002-04:00

If you want to learn more about the local culture on your next Amish Country vacation in Ohio, be sure to visit Yoder's Amish Home & Farm. This property was actually an Amish homestead before it was purchased by the Yoders in 1972. There are 116 acres on this property complete with a barn, farm houses, schoolhouse and more. Mr. Yoder was raised Amish until he turned 21 years old. His wife was raised in the "English" community but was surrounded by Amish. You have several options for touring here. Visit the barn that was built in 1885 and has some unique hand hewn beams and pegs besides bunnies, lambs, beagles, and colts. You can also take a 30-40 minute tour through the 2 homes on the property and learn about the differences between Old Order and New Order Amish. Don't leave without taking a ride in a real Amish buggy. The drivers are members of the Amish church and love to visit with the tourists. After taking the buggy ride you will be glad that you will leave the property in a car! A few years back a one-room schoolhouse was moved to the property so that visitors could learn more about Amish parochial schools that are free of electricity. Throughout the year you will find various special events such as Apple Butter Stirring or Fall Butchering Days. Take time to visit the gift shop and bakery while you are there. This is a seasonal business that opens some time in April and closes in October. It is located off of State Route 515 not too far from Walnut Creek. This State Route is a very scenic drive so take your time and enjoy the view!
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Amish Country Inn Offers Bus Tours To Guests

2011-06-12T13:48:00.001-04:00

New in 2011, one Amish Country Inn has purchased their own tour bus and will be offering tours to guests that stay there. The first tours offered were all-day wine tasting tours that included lunch and dinner. The newest tours include a 2-hour tour and a 4-hour tour. Guests will board the bus right at the B&B to head out on an adventure that will teach them all about the Amish culture. Along the way they will visit Amish-owned businesses where there will be opportunities to shop. Be sure to bring cash if you book one of these tours because with no electricity and telephones you won't find credit cards accepted at these businesses. If you bring friends and family to take over the entire Amish Country Inn you can request a customized tour. Where does your group what to go? What do they want to experience in the area? Tell your innkeepers and they will quote a price for a custom tour just for your group. For details contact Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Holmes County, Ohio, 330-674-7608.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Jello Flinging and Idols Singing this 4th of July Weekend

2011-06-10T11:01:00.003-04:00

If you have ever visited Amish Country Ohio you know that it is like taking a step back in time. The busy city life slows down and this 4th of July weekend is no exception. Historic Downtown Millersburg is hosting Thunder Over Holmes County. On Friday evening you will experience an "American Idol" like experience while pigging out at the food vendor stands. On Saturday there are activities from Noon until the fireworks display around 10 p.m. When was the last time you participated in a Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest? Have you ever been involved in a Jello Flinging Contest? How about an old-fashioned pie eating contest? There will also be a Civil War Interactive Booth, Courthouse Tours in our Historical Courthouse, bands playing, a strolling magician, and plenty of food. At 8 p.m. the Wright Patterson Air Force Band of Flight Prism Brass ensemble will put on a concert at the square. This concert can only be topped by the beautiful fireworks display at the end of the night. Make it a weekend, stay at a bed and breakfast, and take an Ohio Amish Country Tour to learn about the culture and customs in the area. Explore the many shops, antiques, wineries, cheese factories, chocolate factory, and more.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Bed & Breakfast Inn of Ohio Recipe for Easy Strawberry Streusel Muffins

2011-06-08T19:47:00.000-04:00

June is a month when strawberries ripen on the vine in the Midwest and one bed and breakfast Inn has a delicious muffin recipe to check out.

Strawberry Streusel Muffins:

Cream together:
1 stick of butter, softened
2/3 cup sugar
Add 2 eggs (1 at a time)
Add 1 t. Vanilla
3/4 c. milk

In another bowl mix:
1 3/4 cups flour
2.5 t. baking powder
1/4 t. salt

Combine the wet and dry mixtures until just moistened. Gently fold in 1.5 cups chopped fresh strawberries. Fill greased muffin tins 3/4 full and add Streusel Topping.

Streusel Topping:
1/2 stick butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 t. cinnamon
2/3 cup flour

Mix streusel topping ingredients with a pastry blender until crumbly and spoon on top of muffins before baking.

Bake 25 minutes at 350 degrees. Yields 1 dozen muffins.
The next time you are in Holmes Country, stay at this award winning Ohio bed and breakfast.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Choose a Romantic Cottage for Your June Honeymoon or Anniversary

2011-05-30T10:28:00.001-04:00

June is known as the month of weddings and many people are looking for a special place to honeymoon or celebrate an anniversary. The owners of the multi-award-winning, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast have the solution: a Romantic Cottage. A little over a year ago they built 2 luxury cottages where couples can be pampered. Each romantic cottage has a Roman-style Jacuzzi tub with big white pillars on each side and tile surround, a peninsula fireplace, Amish-made cabinets and bed, a pillow-soft mattress on the bed with 600 thread-count, cotton-sateen sheets, a kitchenette with a mini refrigerator and a microwave oven, and a 23 foot private porch off the back that faces a field where their Amish neighbor grazes horses. To insure that guests have full privacy they put privacy shades on the porches of each cottage so that when you sit outside you won't be looking at your neighbor. These cottages in Ohio even have romantic names: Falls Kiss Cottage and Springs Desire Cottage. Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way is located in the middle of Holmes County, Ohio, so whether you want to visit wineries, cheese factories, museums, shop, etc., you will be close by just about everything.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Shop 'Til You Drop in Holmes County Ohio

2011-05-28T10:04:00.040-04:00

If you are one of those people that likes to "shop 'til you drop' then you won't want to miss Holmes County, Ohio.
Many people know this area for the Amish community but you will also find fine gifts, flea markets, antiques, and more in Holmes County.
If you ask the owner of an
Amish Country Inn near Berlin
about shopping you will get an extensive list of places:

AMISH BUSINESSES: Lamp & Light Candles, R.W. Leather, Swartzentruber Quilts, Millers Quality Crafts, Prairie Lane Furniture, Millers Bakery, Hershberger's Farm & Bakery, Farmerstown Furniture, Erb's Stove Center, Ashery Country Store, Ruth's Amish Dolls, basket makers in Amish homes, etc.
FINE GIFTS: Berlin Village Gift Barn, Carlisle House of Gifts, Dutch Valley Gifts, Bowden Bells, Treaty Line Pottery, Holmes County Pottery, Berlin Creek Gallery, Blue River Gallery, Eagle Song Studio, Polish Niche, Pine Tree Barn, Tis the Season, Wendell August Forge, P. Graham Dunn, etc.
ANTIQUES: Starlight Antiques, Pretty Penny, Hershberger Antique Mall, Shaker House Antiques on the Square, Walnut Creek Antique Mall, Berlin Village Antique Mall, 55 West, Antique Mall at Schrock's Amish Farm, etc.
FLEA MARKETS: Holmes County Flea Market, Walnut Creek Flea Market, Flea Market at the Mt. Hope Auction, Flea Market at the Kidron Auction
FOOD SHOPPING: Coblentz Chocolate Company, Heini's Cheese, Guggisberg Cheese, Walnut Creek Cheese, Breitenbach Wine Cellars, Broad Run Cheese & Swiss Heritage Winery, Gateway Place Wines, Der Bake Oven, Mrs. Yoders Kitchen, Millers Noodles, Nature's Food Market, Troyer's A Country Market, Troyer's Trail Bologna, Java Jo Coffee Shop, Winesburg Meats, Doughty Valley Meats, etc.

The above mentioned businesses do not include quilts, fabrics, miscellaneous gift shops, many furniture stores, craft malls, thrift shops, museums, animal ranches, historical homes, and more. You could easily spend a week in Holmes County, Ohio Amish Country and do something different every day.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Awesome Amish Adventures in Autumn But Book Your Ohio Amish Country Getaway Now

2011-05-26T11:30:00.011-04:00

Did you know that October is the busiest month of the year for an Ohio Amish Country getaway, or even a day trip? The Fall colors throughout the rolling hills are just breathtaking but there are many festivals and events every October as well. Every year people assume that because kids have gone back to school that they don't need an advance reservation and they will find a room to spend the night. Innkeepers struggle to find those people a room in Holmes County or the surrounding area. Some of the 2011 events in October include:

October 1st is an Apple Festival at Schrock's Amish Farm in Berlin
October 1st is the Annual Williamsburg Festival in Shreve
October 1st is Apple Butter Stirring at Yoders Amish Farm near Walnut Creek
October 1st is an Oktoberfest at the J.E.Reeves Victorian House Museum
October 4th-8th is the Street Fair in Loudonville
October 7th is Charm Days
October 8th is Apple Butter Stirring at Yoders Amish Farm near Walnut Creek
October 8th is Octoberfest at Heini's Gourmet Market in Sugarcreek
October 8th-9th is the Holmes County Antique Festival in Millersburg
October 14th-16th is Apple Butter Stirring & Fall Festival at Roscoe Village
October 14th-15th is Behind the Scenes Tour of Zoar
October 15th is Apple Butter Stirring at Yoders Amish Farm near Walnut Creek
October 28th-29th is Haunted Halloween at the Victorian House Museum
October 29th is Halloween Ghost Walks in Millersburg

Add all of these special events and festivals to fall colors, farm stands, apple picking and fresh apple cider, etc. and it makes for a very busy time. If you want to guarantee a room reservation at your favorite lodging establishment you should consider making your reservations 4-6 months in advance.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Antiques & Amish When You Travel Ohio Amish Country

2011-05-24T11:01:00.001-04:00

When some people decide to travel to Ohio Amish Country they plan on visiting Amish places and antique shops but there is one place to do both, Hershberger Antique Mall. It is located on State Route 557 just south of Charm, Ohio. There is one thing to note when planning an antique adventure: Some "antique malls" sell collectibles and not authentic antiques. Hershberger Antique Mall sells authentic antiques and some of them are 75-100 years old. Ben Hershberger, a local Amish man, broke the stereotype that Amish only farm for a living when he started his antique mall several years ago. Antique furniture was something that really caught his eye. The old pieces had beautiful dovetailing and intricate details and that is a big part of his business. In addition to furniture you will find lamps, clocks, Carnival Glass, and more. There are 3 buildings on the property, one of which is a bargain building with items in need of repair or refinishing. It is quite common to see a customer in the store trying to sell their antiques to Ben. Hershberger likes to focus on unique and unusual pieces that you don't just find anywhere. In his years of retail business Ben Hershberger has learned the importance of customer service and can help you find just what you are looking for. Unlike most Amish businesses that close at 5 p.m., this antique mall stays open until 8 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday but they are closed on Sunday. While you are in the area you will want to visit downtown Millersburg, Walnut Creek, and Berlin for more antique shopping. If you travel the township roads near Hershberger Antique Mall you will find Amish-owned businesses such as candle makers, furniture builders, leather belts, brooms, and more. The next time you travel to Ohio Amish Country stop in and see Ben Hershberger.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Carol's Favorite Wines from Ohio Wineries

2011-05-22T14:41:00.032-04:00

Over the past five years we've found more people planning a weekend getaway around where they can visit or tour Ohio Wineries. Many people don't realize that there are wines out there for every taste. "A good wine is one that you like" is what one local winery owner told us. As I have visited and tried wines I have gone from enjoying sweeter wines to preferring a dry wine. While the following list shows my top picks, the wineries represented serve many types of wine from dessert wine to dry wine:

White October. This wine is available from Ravens Glenn Winery. It is similar to a Chardonnay but much better! It goes great with everything from chicken to cheese to pasta but a chilled glass by itself is wonderful too. It is made from Chardonel grapes and has won a Platinum Medal in 2010.
Cabernet Sauvignon. My favorite Cabernet is also from Ravens Glenn Winery. I love the oak undertones and the smoothness of this wine. You'll pick up the taste of currants when you drink this wine. It goes great with steak, pizza, and heavy cheese.
Chambourcin. Al-Bi Winery on Atwood Lake makes this wine. This is a dark, dry, red wine with oak undertones.
Ares. This wine is made at Rainbow Hills Vineyards in Newcomerstown. It is a dry red wine with flavors unlike typical dry red wines.
Festival. Breitenbach Wine Cellars produces this wine. It has a blend of 3 grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. This goes well with red meat or sharp cheeses.
Cabernet Sauvignon. Another Cabernet that we like is from JC Wine Cellars in East Springfield. It is located in an old auto repair garage and has a gourmet restaurant on site. This wine goes well with meat and pasta.
Red Raspberry Wine. This dessert wine is from Ravens Glenn Winery and goes down great with their Chocolate Zinfandel Cake from their restaurant. I'm not usually a sweet wine drinker but there is a time and place for this wine ...the place is paired with chocolate.
Foreplay. This wine is from Al-Bi Winery and is another dessert wine. It combines a couple of berry flavors and is perfect for dessert or just sipping by itself.
Old Dusty Miller. Breitenbach Winery makes this semi-dry wine. It pairs well with seafood or salads. It is also great for just sipping on a glass of wine.
Eclipse. Winery at Perennial Vineyards makes this wine from a Chambourcin grape. It goes great with their homemade pizza and Lappolito, which is one of the Grandmother's recipes.

You can drive your own vehicle around for wine tasting but why not grab a group of friends and stay at Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast. You can charter their tour bus and have a designated driver for all of your winery stops. Ask about the dates for their planned wine tours.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Weekend Getaways Include Car Shows

2011-05-20T14:05:00.004-04:00

There are so many things to do on your Ohio weekend getaways but this June you will want to check out a couple of car shows. On June 10 & 11, 2011, Sugarcreek, Ohio is hosting the 21st annual Fabulous Fifties Fling. This car show has grown each year! Not only are there 50's cars and 50's food and 50's music, but you will find cars on display from many different model years. This show has been named one of the Top Downtown Events by Cruisin Times Magazine. On Friday night there is a cruise-in for cars of any age. On Saturday, participating vehicles must be from 1975 or older.

The second event in June is the Corvette Cruise-In at Roscoe Village in Coshocton. That is held on June 12, 2011, so you can visit both car shows on the same weekend. The main street going through the village is closed off for Corvettes on display. There is food, shopping, and history all packed in to this one place. This event is hosted by Classic Glass Corvette Club. They are expecting 200 Corvettes at this event. As you stroll the streets of Roscoe Village to see the cars you will be entertained with music of the 1950's and 1960's. The event starts at 10 a.m. and goes on until 4 p.m.
When you come to visit both of these car shows consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio which is about half way between the two car shows.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

New Amish Country Tours in Holmes County Ohio

2011-05-19T14:12:00.002-04:00

This past winter Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast purchased a tour bus in order to offer Amish Country Tours to their bed and breakfast guests. The B&B is surrounded by Old Order and New Order Amish neighbors. The owners of the bed and breakfast have gotten to know their neighbors and learned quite a lot about the Amish culture. In addition they have scouted out the area to find places that their guests may be interested in visiting so that they can share their knowledge with the guests. They started with an all-day wine tasting tour and got outstanding reviews from guests. This summer they are offering 2-hour and 4-hour tours on the weekdays which will teach their guests about who the Amish are and how they live. Along the route they will make stops at Amish-owned businesses such as bakeries, general stores, basket makers, furniture, and more. If you choose to take one of these tours keep in mind that the Amish don't have telephones and electricity so you cannot purchase items in their stores with a credit card. Some places do not even accept personal checks so you should have cash with you if you plan on shopping. Another itinerary is a Sunday Special Tour that guests will take after they check-in when most businesses are closed. It will be a sunset tour at a special price and they will travel the back roads of Holmes County, Ohio teaching people more about the Amish. When small groups take over 4-5 guest rooms at the bed and breakfast they can request a customized tour where they pick the length and kinds of places that they would like to visit. Garden Gate Get-A-Way B&B will work out a price for the customized tour.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Easy Lemon Muffin Bites from Ohio Bed and Breakfast Recipes

2011-05-18T10:33:00.009-04:00

When choosing recipes for our bed and breakfast in Ohio I love to find those that are tasty, perhaps gourmet, and yet easy to make. These lemon flavored muffins will remind you of pound cake.
Ingredients:
1/2 c. butter, softened
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla extract
1/2 t. lemon extract
1 3/4 c. sifted flour
1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. baking soda
1/2 c. sour cream
Glaze:
2 c. powdered sugar
3 T. lemon juice

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and grease some mini-muffin pans.
Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add eggs and extracts; beat well. In a smaller bowl combine flour, salt, and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with sour cream. Do not over mix.
Fill greased muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 400 for 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (Note: Do not cook until brown or they will be tough)
Cool for 5 minutes, remove from pan to a cooling rack, combine glaze ingredients, and drizzle the glaze over the top. Yield about 2 dozen.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Ohio Bed and Breakfast Reflections of an Amish Mothers Day

2011-05-16T17:14:00.000-04:00

An Ohio bed and breakfast owner reflects on the Amish and Mothers Day.
Growing up I've heard my mother talk about when she was young. There were no televisions or computers or modern conveniences. When Mothers Day rolled around all of the children and their families would head over to the mother's home for a special family day. People would gather outside in the yard and sit around in lawn chairs or folding chairs because there was no air conditioning. Mothers were highly respected and a family member would not dream of staying home on Mothers Day unless they were sick.
This past Mothers Day, in May 2011, I looked out my living room window and saw a grouping of Amish buggies and cars parked across the street. All of the children and grandchildren came to the Old Order Amish home to celebrate Mothers Day. The family was gathered in a circle of lawn chairs visiting with each other. The young children were running around the yard and screaming with giggles and delight. There were no televisions, no electronics, and no one was missing.
Seeing the Amish family really made me stop and ask myself what has happened to our world? In the non-Amish world where both the husband and the wife have jobs outside of the home very few families get together on Mothers Day. Some families don't even send a card or a gift to their Mother. Many mothers sit home alone on that day without as much as a telephone call from their family. Why does this happen? Many say that they are too busy, and that they are mothers themselves, and they can live with the little bit of time that they dedicate to their mother each year. Many that do call their mothers on the telephone do so in route to work or the store so the conversation gets cut short.
I thought that it was bad enough that many families don't sit around a dinner table together any more. I think that it is worse that some can "put their mother out to pasture" because they are "too busy" in their own lives to take the time for her. There is definitely a good lesson to learn from the Amish. In the Amish community you will see that God and Family always come before the job and other outside distractions. I wonder how many more lessons one could learn from the Amish?
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Canoes, Cliffs, and Cardinals near Bed and Breakfast in Millersburg Ohio

2011-05-13T21:29:00.003-04:00

Nature lovers will find canoes, cliffs, and cardinals on river trips and nature hikes near a bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Ohio. Just a short way down the road from Millersburg is the "Canoe Capital" of Ohio. It is located in Loudonville! There are several canoe options from 1/2 hour trips to multi-day trips. The Loudonville Canoe Livery on Main Street is the oldest canoe livery in operation at the same location in the State of Ohio. Mohican Adventures located on State Route 3 in Loudonville is celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2011. In addition to canoeing Mohican Adventures also offers adventure golf and go karts. In the same area is Mohican State Park where you can go hiking, bird watching, horseback riding and more. The parks boasts 6000 acres that are hilly and full of cliffs from glacial formations created by the Wisconsin Glacier many years ago. A couple of the highlights at the park include Lyons Falls and Clear Fork Gorge. The gorge is over 1000 feet wide at one point and is surrounded by Hemlock and Pine trees. It is 300 feet deep and is a National Natural Registered Landmark.

Another site to see in the Mohican area is Lyons Falls. There are both upper and lower falls. The upper falls are near Lyons Cave and drop 40 feet. The lower falls cascade through Clear Fork Gorge and drop 30 feet. There are marked trails in the Mohican State Park. If you are in to bird watching you will see native birds such as the Cardinal or Eastern Bluebird as well as some rare specifies, especially during migration season. The park has picnic areas so be sure to pack a picnic whether you are canoeing or hiking or bird watching.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Do You Know How to Relax?

2011-05-02T20:46:00.000-04:00

In today's world many couples work 14-16 hour days and when they come home they have work in the home and yard, grocery shop, and do other chores and errands. If you ask a doctor we need to stop this destructive behavior and learn to relax more in order to have good health.
One way to force yourself to relax is to book a stay at a bed and breakfast. Choose one that is not in the middle of a busy city. Don't get on the Internet to explore where to shop, what to see, what to do, etc. Book that bed and breakfast as a destination. Pack yourself a "stress buster kit". Your kit should include some books and magazines, comfortable clothing, some bath salts, and a bottle of wine (or your favorite beverage). You might even challenge yourself to leave any televisions turned off and focus on de-stressing.
Many people don't think of booking a bed and breakfast as a destination and yet it can be so relaxing. Many bed and breakfasts offer massage therapy in your guest room which gives you one more way to beat the stress. Your innkeeper will pamper you with some great breakfasts and can recommend some very peaceful dining options for lunch and dinner.
At bed and breakfasts like Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Amish Country, Ohio, you will find porch swings where you can sit outside and view flower gardens plus each evening you can gather around a campfire with other B&B guests and watch the stars come out. Flowers and campfires definitely can promote relaxation.
Write yourself a prescription for good health and book yourself a stay at a bed and breakfast and go there as a destination.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Blooms, Butterflies, and Birds Abound Near Holmes County Ohio

2011-04-27T10:47:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, April 30, 2011, blooms, butterflies, and birds will abound near Holmes County, Ohio. The Wilderness Center near Wilmot is having a native plant sale and gardening seminars from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The native plant sale is an annual event where you can purchase plants that are native to Ohio and therefore will be more hardy when it comes to keeping them in your garden. Plants offered are for various areas of your garden from marsh plants to shade plants to those that thrive in sun. The seminars include topics such as birds, canning, edible landscape, butterfly gardening, plant problems, and weeds. There is a nominal fee for the seminars with the proceeds going to help support The Wilderness Center. You can pre-register for the seminars but it is not necessary. The plant sale is first come, first served; no advance orders. Continue the fun on Sunday with a wildflower walk at 2 p.m. While you are there take time to check out their various nature trails. The interpretive center inside is also worth a 2nd look.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Carol's Favorite Places to Eat on Your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio

2011-04-22T10:55:00.011-04:00

It doesn't matter if you want Amish home cooking, fine dining, fast food, barbeque, pub-style dining, etc., you will find lots of choices on your Amish Country vacation in Ohio. These are my favorites:

Chalet in the Valley. This restaurant is owned by the Guggisberg family that moved here from Switzerland several years ago. The cheese fondue and 5 kinds of schnitzel are awesome! My husband thinks that Smothered Chicken is the only thing on the menu (and it is really good!)

Table. A guest of ours describe Table restaurant as 5 star dining at 1 star prices. This renowned chef/owner has worked with Wolfgang Puck, catered Emmy and Grammy awards as well as Julia Child's 80th birthday. They are located in the back of a retirement village but don't let that fool you as to what kind of food you will experience.

Mrs. Yoders Kitchen. If you are looking for Amish home cooking, this is your restaurant! The food is fabulous and the salad bar is one of the best in the County. Save room for homemade pie because it is second to none.

Bags Sports Pub. Some people like to have a beer or cocktail with dinner and much of Holmes County is dry with no alcohol. Bags offers 100 beers plus cocktails along with some fantastic food. Whether you want a burger on a pretzel bun, Caesar Salmon Salad, a Grouper Wrap, or a Steak dinner, you will find it all at Bags. The quality of the food is not quite 5 star but pretty close and yet the atmosphere is casual.

Millers Dutch Kitchen. This restaurant is best known for their Broasted Chicken and authentic Amish cooking. They have a good variety of home-cooked meals such as Swiss Steak, Pork Chops, Meat Loaf, and Roast Beef. The desserts include homemade Vanilla ice cream, homemade pie, sundaes, and chocolate Angel Food cake. They are located in Baltic across from Baltic Mills gift shop and bulk foods.

Rebeccas Bistro. You won't find menus in this restaurant because they offer different lunches every day. They offer fresh foods and local produce in the quiche, entree salads, soup, and sandwiches. They are not usually open for dinner except for the 2nd Friday of each month they have a special Gourmet dinner by reservation.

The restaurants mentioned are certainly not the only restaurants that offer good food in Amish Country but they are Carol's favorites.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Carol's 10 Favorite Places to See on Your Amish Country Vacation in Ohio

2011-04-20T14:11:00.000-04:00

There are so many things to see and do in addition to experiencing the Amish culture on your Amish Country vacation in Ohio. The following are my 10 favorite places that you should not miss:

1. Warther Museum. The thing that sets this museum apart from others is the guided tour. You really get to know Mooney Warther and understand what you are looking at when family and friends of Warther deliver your tour. Mesmerizing, Amazing, incredible!

2. Wendell August Forge. They make everything from coasters to trivets to platters to chip 'n dip plates and more. There are only 2 in the USA and we have one in Berlin, Ohio. They have designs for everyone's taste.

3. Walnut Creek Cheese. They are so many things under 1 roof! You will find a granola, jam and jelly factory, bulk foods, bakery, ice cream parlor, Uncle Mike's beef jerky, kitchen gadgets, lunch counter, and of course, cheese.

4. P. Graham Dunn. This inspirational gallery has wall decor, home furnishings, and gifts. Through a glass wall you can view how they make everything since the factory is attached to the retail store. Be sure to visit the seconds room.

5. Millers Bakery. This Amish-owned bakery is just off of State Route 557. Everything is homemade, not processed by a bunch of stainless steel! I love their cinnamon rolls but you will also find cookies, cream cheese tarts, donuts, breads, and more. My favorite bakery in Amish Country.

6. Behalt. This 360 degree mural was painted by Heinz Gaugel and it depicts the history of the Mennonite and Amish communities. Not only is it one of the most beautiful works of art I've ever seen, but it is a history lesson. The tour of the mural is narrated. Behalt is one of four cycloramas in North America.

7. Rolling Ridge Ranch. I love animals and on this tour you sit on a horse-drawn wagon with a bucket of feed and see over 500 animals from around the world. The driver stops every few minutes for the animals to approach the wagon and eat right out of your bucket. Have you ever seen a Zonkey?

8. Amish Country Essentials. Shane learned to make soap from his grandmother at the age of 12. Today he sells homemade soaps both retail and wholesale. You will be shocked to find out all of the bad ingredients in the soaps that you use at home. You can purchase bar soap, bath bombs, bath salts, shaving bars, lotion and more. They even offer soap making classes!

9. Guggisberg Cheese. When I have tasted cheddar, coolly, jalapeno jack and other common cheese in Holmes County they all seem to taste the same. Guggisberg Baby Swiss has not been duplicated in my opinion. It's delicious, it's unique, and has won many awards. Stop in their store between Berlin and Charm and see for yourself.

10. Coblentz Chocolate Company. What woman doesn't like chocolate? I'm no exception. These family chocolate recipes are wonderful! They have a viewing gallery where you can watch chocolate being made on the weekdays. Choose from pre-boxed chocolates or visit the candy counter and build your own box to take home. A couple of times each year they sell tickets for a chocolate tasting and making where you go in the factory and make some chocolates!

I've left out many wonderful places so make plenty of time on your Amish Country vacation in Ohio to visit more than these ten.

Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Produce Stands in Amish Country Ohio

2011-04-17T10:42:00.011-04:00

Almost nine years ago when some bed and breakfast owners in Amish Country, Ohio were asked by guests where they could find produce stands it was hard to come up with an answer. People assumed that every Amish family had a garden and sold their produce. What they didn't realize is that many Amish families have gardens but they can their produce to provide food for their families. Today more and more produce stands are popping up around Holmes County Amish Country. The next time you visit Amish Country visit these places:
Hershberger's Farm and Bakery Some of you know this business on State Route 557 as Hershbergers Truck Patch. Started by Daniel Hershberger, this place used to be a seasonal produce stand. The next generation has taken over and you not only will you find fresh produce, but they have a bakery that specializes in cinnamon rolls and fry pies. They also have their own label of canned produce. There is a store/gift shop and a petting farm. Children love to feed the goats and take a ride on Big Ben, Ohio's largest Belgian work horse. Plan on spending a while because you will find kettle korn, homemade ice cream, lunch, animals, produce and more! Hershberger's Farm and Bakery is located at 5452 State Route 557 just south of State Route 39/US 62 and north of Charm.
The Farm at Walnut Creek Not only is The Farm a place to view exotic animals from around the world, but they also have a working farm. Tour Amish homes, blacksmith, barns, etc., and learn what it is like to live on a farm. The produce grown on this farm is available for sale on the premises. They are located in Walnut Creek, Ohio at 4147 County Road 114 just south of State Route 39.

Blessing Acres  Visit an Amish farm between Mt. Hope and Berlin for fresh produce. They are located on Township Road 362 and the Miller family owns and operates this 25 acre produce farm. You will find hand-painted signs to guide you to their stand and depending on what is in season the sign changes. The farm-fresh produce includes strawberries, zucchini, onions, potatoes, beets, cucumbers, corn, etc. You will also find honey and pickles for sale at Blessing Acres.
Hillcrest Orchard  This is an apple orchard and produce stand located at 2474 Township Road 444 in Walnut Creek. They are just past the famous Der Dutchmann Restaurant. You will find fresh produce, squash, pumpkins, honey, apples, maple syrup, jams and jellies. They also have 50 acres of apples and peaches. In the fall you will love their homemade apple cider.
Sharp Run Market  This is the newest produce stand in Holmes County and it is located at 5841 State Route 39 just west of Berlin. They offer various produce depending on the time of year. In 2010 they set up an organic corn maze in addition to the produce stand.
There are other produce stands in Amish Country Ohio but we've just mentioned a few. To find the most fresh produce drive up and down the back roads and look for signs in front of Amish farms.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Horseback Riding in Holmes County, Ohio

2011-04-15T10:21:00.002-04:00

Millions of visitors venture to Amish Country, Ohio each year for Amish culture but many are looking for a place to go horseback riding in Holmes County. Amish Country Riding Stables offers tourists a place to go horseback riding. They accept both experienced and non-experienced riders. You ride in small groups and there is a trail guide that goes out with you. Experienced riders get the chance to not only walk the horse, but trot and run too. Rides are available most days from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Rides usually last around 45 minutes and they do have a weight limit. Riders must be at least 7 years old. The rides take you through the beautiful Charm countryside with breathtaking scenery all around you.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com

Sunday Sunsets in Your Ohio Amish Country Getaway

2011-04-13T11:22:00.005-04:00

If you have ever visited Holmes County, Ohio on a Sunday you have probably asked yourself, "Why are so many businesses closed?" Learn the answers on an Ohio Amish Country Getaway. This is one community where God and family beat out the "almighty dollar". Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast has come up with a Sunday evening activity. From July through September 2011 they will offer a 'Sunday Sunset' tour of Amish Country. The Sunday night bed and breakfast guests have the option to take a 2 hour tour of rolling pastures of Amish Country. While on their private tour bus you will learn about the Amish church districts. You'll find out why the Amish businesses are closed on Sundays. Your innkeepers will explain their education and more mysteries of their culture. To keep things in the "English" world each guest will be treated to a glass of wine and some cheese while they traverse the roads of Holmes County Amish Country. When the tour ends you can unwind at the night campfire back at the bed and breakfast. For more information and rates check out their Amish Country Tours on the website or call 330-674-7608.
Written by Carol Steffey, Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, Millersburg, Ohio (330) 674-7608 www.garden-gate.com