Swiss Woods Bed and Breakfast

Lancaster County and Country Music Classics

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Wed, 09 May 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Shindig in the Barn... if that rings any bells with you, you were most likely living in Lancaster County in the 60's when the Guernsey Barn on the corner of Rt 30 and Rt 896 was packed to overflowing on Saturday night with Country and Gospel music fans. Straw bales lined the walls. Chairs crowded the floor and there was barely room to turn around to see and be seen. Groups like the Oak Ridge Boys, the Statler Brothers, and the Imperials were standard fare here. While, at the time I did not have an opinion about Country or Gospel music, it was one of the few allowable hangouts of my teenage years and I have fond memories of those times.

Last week I had the opportunity to see the American Music Theater Country Classics Show, and I can tell you, all those wonderful memories just came flooding back. This show hopped and skipped its way over 4 decades of the best that country had to offer, done well, creatively and judging from the audience response I was not alone in my appreciation. Included were songs that I had forgotten even existed. It was like sitting in the middle of a Time Life Series, but it didn't stop with the oldies. The second half has some of the best that today's country has to offer with songs from Vince Gill, Reba and Josh Turner. This show also features some incredible musicians, not the least of which was a fiddle player extraordinaire. Great voices, fun costumes, and a wonderful venue all add up to an extraordinary night out.

Why not plan a trip to our Lancaster County Bed and Breakfast and include and evening or matinee with the good folk at the American Muisic Theater. If you like, we would be glad to procure your tickets for you.

Swiss Alphorn and Yodeling Concert in Lancaster County

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Now, here is a great reason to come stay at our Lititz Bed and Breakfast.. an Alphorn Concert in Lancaster County! Lorenz Schwartz and Ernst Baenninger from Wattwil Switzerland are presenting an Alphorn and Yodeling concert on April 23 at 7PM at the Conestoga Mennonite Church, just west of Morgantown.

Life is interesting in how it so often circles around. When Werner and I lived in Switzerland during the early 80's, we would take our little girls Mirjam and Esther, both under 3 at the time, to a small inn in the Grissons (Graubunden) in a little storybook town of La Punt. This hamlet was just a few miles outside of the much better known St. Moritz, but had so much charm. The inn was amazing, though a bit rustic, and so much of what we do here at Swiss Woods started as a dream during our stays there. Lorenz and his wife Andrea ran the inn and we so looked forward to our winter trips there.
Today the Schwarzs live in Wattwil, just a few miles south of where Werner and I lived in the Toggenburg Valley. All this history,( a veritable trip down memory lane for me) just to say ....an alphorn and yodeling concert in Lancaster County! If you enjoy this kind of thing why not join us?

Auctions in Lancaster County, a fun thing to do

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 20:17:00 +0000

My dad loved auctions, all kinds of auctions but especially those estate sales that went on all day and had everything under the sun for sale. He was very good at bidding and winning items at very good prices, oft times downright cheap! My younger sister and I would go along on Saturdays to these events, that were oft times very social and included great food. We would set up our folding chairs and watch as one item after the other found its way to be sold.

I was not very old when Dad gave me $10, a fortune back then, and allowed me to look around, choose something I might like to have and then, bid on it myself. My very first acquisition this way was a wash basket full of beautifully embroidered linen that I bought for next to nothing. I still have some of those beautiful pieces. From that moment on, I was hooked. Auctions were the best!

These days, Saturdays are busy and I don’t have much time to spend a whole day in this manner but Lancaster County still has many wonderful auctions any day of the week. Driving home yesterday from Lititz, I passed a sign for one just up the road and decided .. this one I will try and attend, and not just for the homemade chicken corn soup or hamburger bar-b-que.

Why not plan a trip to Lancaster County with just this in mind? Swiss Woods is not far from so many auction options. Wednesday’s Horst Auction center has indoor estate auctions just a few miles from the inn. They also run special auctions that include coins, folk antiques and other specialties. Spring and fall are prime times for estate auctions that take place at the property. Ask us for any that might be happening while you are here. We will be more than happy to help you find that perfect place to spend a Saturday morning watching the auctioneers gavel fall! You never know what you might find.

Greenhouses in Lancaster County...

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 20:47:00 +0000

..just a stone's throw from our Lititz Bed and Breakfast.

With Springs abrupt arrival the myriad of small greenhouses that dot the countryside here are hanging out their “open” signs. Flats of pansies, seed packets, early annuals are all in beautiful display on the watering benches. Lancaster County is a farming community and spring planting, huge manicured gardens, banks of beautiful flowers and even window boxes are just a way of life here. It is one of the things that makes this area different and so very beautiful. A recent facebook post by my sister proclaiming “I don't remember ever planting peas, potatoes, and onions before mid March! It sure feels good to have a head start this year! Planted some beets, lettuce, chard and kale, too”

We live close to more greenhouses than I can count. There are tiny farm stands that then sell produce in the summer, there are medium ones like Hoovers that started as a home grown produce market and turned into a full fledged greenhouse. There are the mega big ones that have everything garden related you can think of like Esbendshade's, just a short 10 min from the inn.

As March moves into April we find ourselves mapping flower buying trips for our guests. Over the years they have learned what a find this area is and come prepared to wander the back roads and visiting the farmers markets purchasing flats of flowers and veggies, hanging baskets and herbs, and even additions to their water gardens, all to take home and plant. Let us help you find the perfect spot for economical and beautiful flowers to plant all summer long all the while enjoying the beautiful one of a kind PA Dutch countryside.

Spring and Summer on the way to this Lancaster County Bed and Breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:02:00 +0000

“Can I pick fruit anywhere in Lancaster County?” At our bed and breakfast, this was a new question. Most of our guests are coming to tour and shop, eat and relax, not necessarily to pick fruit. But why
not? As I thought about it, it made perfect sense. We encourage our guests to shop the farmers markets. We have a large refrigerator just for their use to store anything they find and want to take home with
them and we even have coolers for sale if they forget to bring their own!

The Lancaster area is home to many pick your own farms. Cherry Hill Orchard features the most amazing cherries in June and every kind of apple you can think of starting in late August. Strawberry farms dot
the countryside, many of them not far from our Bed and Breakfast in Lititz. Every spring we pick quarts and quarts of these to make our amazing fresh strawberry jam.

Starting now, the multitude of fabulous greenhouses stock their spring and summer plants, also a popular item to purchase at really great prices and take home. Stay tuned for more on our huge variety of greenhouses.

Why not plan a trip to pick up spring garden plants or pick berries, soak up some one of a kind relaxation in the quiet of the garden, and allow us here at Swiss Woods to spoil you with our great breakfast and one of a kind hospitality.

Rooms are filling up for the spring, summer and fall. Book early for your choice.

Book one of our specials for a great value. Visit our area page on the website for updated listings on all there is to do and see, special events and shows in Lancaster, auctions, farmers markets and shopping. And be sure to "like" us on facebook to get all of the up to the minute happenings. Can’t wait for spring? Well, it has arrived here in beautiful Lititz, PA.

What to do with 3 days in Lititz, Lancaster County

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 22:00:00 +0000

As fall comes into full force and the days grow shorter and cooler many folks think that activities in this part of the world slow down as well. I am here to tell you that it “just ain’t so”! Late fall and winter are some of the richest, activity wise, in Lancaster County. Here are some fun filled ideas of what you can do with 3 days in beautiful Lancaster County. Visit our website for links to those that have websites. For those that don’t we will have all the info for you here when you check in.

Fridays
Of course we are near Lititz and love all that there is to do right here! November brings 2nd Friday on Nov 11, with shops open later, music and other fun things to do. Lancaster City boasts 1st Fridays with special events, food and music as well. While there visit the Central Market, the oldest inland farmers market in Lancaster County, open only on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Friday’s are also Green Dragon days, a busy outdoor/indoor farmers market in Ephrata. Auctions, produce, crafts and flea market all rolled into one.
Saturdays
This is a great day to tour through Amish farmland, slow your pace to that of the horse and buggies around you, add in a stop at Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse for some shopping. Jellies, jams and preserves abound here. Small stores with handmade crafts, and other beautiful things can be found here as well. Quilt shops are dotted through the countryside. Ask us for our favorites. You will want to stop for ice cream on an old order Amish farm that makes just about the best ice cream on the face of the earth! End your day with one of the many performances at the Millennium Theater, Rainbow Dinner Theater, or the American Music Theater.
Sundays
Sunday is the quiet day here in the county. Pretty much anything Mennonite or Amish run will be closed. Buggies wend their way through the back roads to and from church services or visiting. Today is a good day to visit some of the museums in the county. Most are open from noon to 5. The Ephrata Cloister is fascinating and has several programs throughout the year. My favorite is the Christmas Lantern Tours and Christmas at the Cloister, both in December. These require tickets and advance reservations.
President Buchannans home, Wheatland is open for tours as well.
Landis Valley Museum, is a living history village and farm, which collects, preserves and interprets the history and material culture of the Pennsylvania German rural community from 1740 to 1940. Also open 12-5 on Sundays and well worth a visit.
End your day with dinner at one of the amazing restaurants close by. We love Lily’s on Main in Ephrata or the General Sutter Inn on the square in Lititz.
Monday
We love telling guests about the New Holland horse auction that takes place on Monday’s. This is not a tourist attraction and cameras are not allowed. Many Amish go here to purchase new carriage or work horses. It is fascinating and we will be happy to give you directions. Monday’s are also wash day in Amish country and touring through the farmlands is beautiful no matter what the time of year. This is a good day to visit the outlets as they are far less busy than later in the week.
Tuesday
Year round farmers markets include Lancaster’s Central Market open on Tuesday. Schedule a visit to the Quilt Museum just next door while you are there. Lancaster also offers walking tours and boasts some excellent restaurants. Like other small cities it is filled with small shops and interesting things to do. The Fulton Opera House boasts some excellent performances year round.
The other farmers market that is only open on Tuesday is Roots. This is an outdoor/indoor market chock full of excellent stands. Just south of Manheim it is a short drive from the Inn. On your way back to the Inn a visit to Waltz Vineyard just west of Manheim. We love Waltz wines! Their wine tasting room is beautiful and bright, the perfect spot to spend a few winter hours. Be sure to try their award winning Fusion wine.
Wednesday
Outdoor activities abound in northern Lancaster County all year round. Take an afternoon to hike the trails behind the Inn, or at Middle Creek Wildlife Preserve just a short drive from us. At the end of January, beginning of February through the middle of March you can enjoy the migration of the snow geese and tundra swans. Not just a few but tens of thousands of them find their way north with a stop at Middle Creek. Several hundred overnight here at our own Speedwell Forge Lake, but the really impressive flocks are just a short drive away at Middle Creek. Bring your camera! Bikers love this area and we have access to cue sheets to help you find your best route. Covered Brideges are scattered throughout this part of the county and make a beautiful tour. End your day at the Boars Head Pub in Lititz for one of their incredible craft beers on tap. Jeff, the bartender will help you find the perfect one to go with your traditional pub fare . What a great place to spend a wintery evening!
Thursday
Wow are we through a whole week already? I have barely touched the list of all there is to do here in the county. Today would be a great day to take a short 25 min drive to Hershey if you want to visit Chocolatetown USA, or for a closer chocolate fix a trip to Wilber’s right here in Lititz is in order. Home of the Wilber bud they have a wonderful chocolate museum and great outlet store for your Christmas and Valentines day needs. Down the street you will want to stop in at the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Factory and try your hand at twisting a pretzel. Do a good job and you will come away with a certificate to hang on your wall. For more pretzel fun we can send you to a small Mennonite run pretzel bakery where they still stand around tables twisting pretzels and singing. Out to dinner and why not end your day with a nice hot cup of coffee in front of our roaring fireplace.

I have not even scratched the surface of all there is to do. Check out the Area section of our website for links and more events and things to see and do. Every month is filled with special events, theater preformances, concerts, and tours. Werner and I have innkeeping for 25 years and we love to map out days tailored to what you, our guest want to experience. I hope you have enjoyed your armchair week in Lancaster County, Why not come for a visit?

Forcasting the winter

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 20:01:00 +0000

Much folklore surrounds predicting the amount of snowfall one can expect in the upcoming winter If the band on the black and red catapiller is broad, not so hard, if it is a thin line, very hard winter. If the acorns are big and plentiful, hard winter, and the list goes on and on.. I must say I enjoy listening to the speculation as we go into fall and wonder what we can expect. I have my own harbinger of prediction that has a really good success rate. I look out and see how Werner's woods stacking is going. The more wood stacked, covered and ready, the harder the winter promises to be.

One stack of MANY

Well I have news for you. I cannot remember a time that there has been more wood, split and stacked than there is this year. Every available corner, wall, overhang.. you name it, is filled with beautiful oak, poplar, maple and chestnut. Werner has the most beautiful wood piles I have ever seen. Guests comment on them, take pictures of them, ask him for lesson on how to do them.. they are just perfect.
And as precise as a barometer.
So, if setteling in next to our roaring fire and knitting, reading, taking or even napping sounds like a great idea, make your plans now to visit us when the snow flies!
During Sept, October and November we keep the fires burning on the patio in our very popular fire pit. December onward the main fireplace takes over and is the place to be.

Wild Mushrooms in the Swiss Woods

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:15:00 +0000

Werner and I took the time on Sunday afternoon to hike the back trails behind the Bed and Breakfast, and take a look at a new bridge the boys built across the stream. The bridge makes that trail a guest favorite. It winds its way back to the marshes and then along the inlet where the owl box hangs, wood ducks nest and frogs sing. If we are lucky the owl will be looking out her door even during the day.
Because of the regular rains we have had this year the hiking paths were lined with mushrooms of every imaginable shape and size. We commented that we really need to find someone to teach us the art of identifying mushrooms that we can eat. There is nothing as wonderful as mushrooms fresh from the forest and we have acres here for them to grow on.
So today when the doorbell rang and it was my nephew Ben, Mr Outdoors, with 2 friends asking if they could hunt mushrooms in the woods, I said, sure, if you bring them back for me to see!
When they returned it was with a 5 gallon bucket filled with Hen of the Woods. One of them is now in my kitchen waiting for me to figure out what to do with it, and I know where to find more when I get it figured out! I love that we are never done finding new things to be excited about on this property. Let me know if you have a favorite way of preparing wild mushrooms!

A Bed and Breakfast is the perfect way to visit Lancaster County

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 20:48:00 +0000

Every year Werner and I host a group of Swiss Farmers. They arrive after touring through New England and Canada and Lancaster County is the last stop on their trip. We are always challenged with showing them the best of the area and it serves as a wonderful opportunity for us to evaluate all that this area has to offer. Every year we are overwhelmed by just how much there is to do here!

Jeff the vineyard manager ( with the pipe) and Werner (with the cup) learning details of winemaking. Thank you Jeff!

Our guests enjoying Waltz wines and locally made cheese

Yesterday we visited Waltz Vineyards in Lancaster County. This vineyard is newer to the Lancaster scene and all I can say is .. Welcome! What a wonderful place with wines to match. (My favorite is their Fusion) Located just north of Manheim it is proof positive that Lancaster can produce wonderful wine.
Today in addition to a visit to a local peach and apple orchard the group is touring through pristine Amish farmland, shopping for quilts and learning all there is to know about local milking operations. Tonight we will grill wonderful sausage from S. Clyde Weaver's sweet corn grown 1/2 mile from the inn, and a decadent peach dessert featuring peaches from the farm at the end of the road. Lancaster truly is a cornucopia of the best food imaginable.!

Outdoors at a Lititz Bed and Breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:52:00 +0000

So often when talking about the Inn we forget to mention the truly spectacular setting that Swiss Woods enjoys. 35 acres of bliss as one of our recent guests put it. Overlooking Speedwell Forge Lake and bordering on state conservation land not only affords us a very quiet setting, but a wide variety of outdoor activities that only require a pair of sneakers and a step outside. We are very pleased this year to be awarded with a "Certified Wildlife Habitat" designation from the National Wildlife Federation.

One circular trail that is easy to walk and takes you into what feels like untouched woodland is only about 45 minuites long. Werner's logging trail provides a great walk back to the wetlands and the Conestoga trail picks up there and brings you back along the inlet, past the owl box and numerous waterfowl nesting spots, back around to our lower gardens. Bull frogs, heron, and a pair of young eagles can be found along the way. If you are very quiet and lucky there are several pileated woodpeckers who call this area home as well. Pennsylvania White Tailed Deer with their fawn live here as well, feeding at the edge of the woods at dawn and dusk.
For the more adventurous we keep canoes at the lake. Early mornings before breakfast or in the evening when the sun is almost ready to set are fabulous times to enjoy the unique quiet and wildlife on the lake from the vantage only a canoe will give.
Why not take a few days and join us in this special corner of Lancaster County surrounded by all that unspoiled nature has to offer?

Lititz Bed and Breakfast is a better way to stay!

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:52:00 +0000

Homemade root beer and short cake

Memorial Day in Lititz is past and we are now officially into summer.I, for one, love summer, the warmth, the farmers markets, roadside stands, and all the special events that pop up all over the countryside. In keeping with a current national bed and breakfast promotion called "A Better Way to Stay" we are constantly reminded of the reasons our guests choose to stay with us. One of the reasons is how connected we are with what is happening around us. We enjoy telling visitors about out of the way things to do. This weekend is no exception.

On my way home from Roots Farmers Market with my watermelons, bananas, cantaloupes and home grown strawberries I passed my favorite Amish farm stand. A huge sign proclaimed that Saturday they would be making homemade ice cream. If you have never had freshly churned homemade ice cream you are missing something amazing. Vanilla served with freshly picked fruit or any variety of flavors, homemade ice cream was a staple in the summer at home growing up. Neighbors would gather and all bringing something to go along with the ice cream. We would enjoy a warm evening watching fireflies and savoring the creamy treat. Neighbor John Landis even hooked the churn up to a tractor motor one summer so we could all sit and watch it churn… but there is still something nostalgic about hand turning a batch.

Boxes of freshly picked berries, sugar peas and fresh jam

We still have a few rooms available this weekend. Why not escape to the country for a few nights, enjoy some homemade ice cream at the Amish farm up the road and relax in some of the most beautiful gardens around.

Other fun events:
Waltz Vineyard wine tastings are a must for any wine lover out there. Just 15 short minutes from the inn this beautiful tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy the amazing wines that Waltzes produces right here on Lancaster County farmland. They have truly earned the many medals they display.

Just around the corner is the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Once a month they hold an evening event called the Full Moon Tour. Our guests just love this event, many returning several times to it visit again. The next full moon tour is the weekend of June 16.

This year we will again have tickets available for the Nissley Vineyard Lawn Concerts. We are happy to provide chairs and a picnic with 24-48 hours notice. This is such a fun night under the stars dancing.

Hoping to see in Lititz soon

Swiss Woods, crown of Lititz Gardens

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Sat, 21 May 2011 21:32:00 +0000

MayEvery spring as the daffodils just take our breath away and then give way to the staggering variety of spring flowers and plants, I am just astounded at what all grows in the Swiss Woods gardens. Today the early daylilys are blooming profusely, the rhododendrons are loaded down with the brightest pink and purple blooms, Jack in the pulpits in white and stunning dark purple, perennial orchids, and bright red poppys. The plentiful rain has only served to make everything more lush than usual. The iris are starting to bloom around the water garden and the birds are building nests in every available tree.

Do you recognize the plants at right? We have had guests ask if they are fake, garden art, statues. If you walk close to them their distinctive smell will tell you that they are every bit alive and growing. They, for lack of a better word... stink. After the black lily stage they turn into what some call an umbrella tree. It is called Devil's Tongue or the Umbrella Tree Plant. They are truly impressive.

There are still a few rooms available for Memorial Day weekend. Why not join us? There are many interesting and fun activities going on all over Lancaster County, or you can just soak up our wonderful peace and quiet.

Local Events.. just a smattering, there are far too many to list here

Flavor Fest at Mt Hope Estate and Winery, just a short 10 minutes from the Inn

Shows at the American Music Theater, Bill Cosby, Kelly Pickler, Dwight Yoakim and many more.

Who goes Bare at the Rainbow Dinner Theater. This dinner theater is always good for a laugh and a good time.

Make plans now to visit us for a weekend in July and August for a wonderful picnic at Nissley Vineyard for their music in the park.

Lancaster County PA, Greenhouses galore!

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Wed, 18 May 2011 21:04:00 +0000

Spring is in full swing in Lititz and it is time to turn our attention to the gardens. How fun is that! Every year I am astounded at the number of greenhouses scattered all over Lancaster County. One close to us here at Swiss Woods specializes in geraniums and produces more than a million a year to sell wholesale. Their retail store is like an FA Schwarz of greenhouses, a veritable gardners delight. But they are not the only option by far. Some focus on water gardening, some on herbs and heirlooms, some of shrubs and then there are the auctions that sell plants by the pallet to Roots and Green Dragon’s produce auction that sell by the piece or flat.

Yesterday Erma and I took a few hours to visit the Roots plant auction. What fun that was to bid on hanging fuchsia baskets, flats of colorful inpatients, marigolds, hosta and coral bells. The prices were amazing .. as low as $3 a flat for marigolds. I totally love auctions!

We will be happy to map these greenhouses out for you, sending you to our favorites. Roots is on Tuesdays and Green Dragon Farmers Market is on Fridays. The Leola Flower auction runs the beginning of the week. Why not come and stay and see these colorful wonders for yourself?

Werner on the left. .. having a great time!

Lititz Quilt Shop, in northern Lancaster County

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:45:00 +0000

A

With March just around the corner and masses of quilters descending on Lancaster County for the annual Americans Quilters Show (March 16-19) I thought it would be appropriate to highlight a real hidden gem here on the outskirts of Lititz. Weaver’s Dry Goods is housed in an unassuming building along Brubaker Valley Road less than a mile from Swiss Woods. From the outside it doesn’t look all that big and if you do not know it is there you could easily miss it. That, would be a shame and you would miss a gem of a quilt /fabric store as well as a traditional bit of Lancaster County.

Walking in the front door you are welcomed with a variety of crafts, wall hangings and notions, but the heart of this place is the rows filled with bolts of the most colorful fabric in every shade and pattern imaginable. Putting together the colors and fabrics for a quilting project here is pure joy. For those who love fabric this is inspiration waiting to happen. You can hardly walk through the isles here without wanting to start something. Little bundles of color coordinated fabric cut in what are known as fat quarters fill large cabinet. The day I was visiting ladies, arms laden with bolt after bolt of brilliant colored cottons made their way to the cutting station.

A quilting visit to Lancaster County would not be complete without a visit to Weavers Dry Goods. For quilters who want a personal fun place to stay, we are just around the corner. Come with your friends and turn your quilting convention into a true girlfriends get-a-way.

American Quilt Show

at the Lancaster Convention Center

March 16-19

Lititz Fire and Ice, Quilt Shows and more

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:00:00 +0000

One of the joys of a small town is being able to enjoy a wide variety of festivals. Fire and Ice is one of those and the first Lititz event to kick off the year. There are many more as you can see on our event schedule at the bottom of the blog. Fire and Ice is an ice sculpting event and a chili cookoff. It is great fun and a good way to shake the winter blues, get outside in the fresh air and enjoy people, food and a great small town.
Visit the Lititz website for a complete schedule of events. Friday night kicks off with the ice being sculpted on the street. Why not come join us for the weekend and enjoy the festivities!

Mark your calenders for these upcoming events. Swiss Woods will be running a winter special from February 20th through March 31. It is a perfect time to plan a winter escape to the 'Woods'.

Special: February 20-March 31 : Book one night and the second is 50% off
Book 2 nights and your third night is free.

The snow geese migrate the end of February and beginning of March. To read more about this amazing sight read my post to the Lancaster Bed and Breakfast Inn Association blog.

Upcoming events: (You can always access the latest events on the Swiss Woods home page)

It is always wise to plan ahead. Here are great events happening in and around Lititz in the coming months. Plan your stay with us around one of these wonderful events.

Amy Grant and Michael W Smith: March 6 American Music Theater Mention that you are attending the concert and receive a 10% discount.

Lancaster Quilt Show and Conference March 16-19 10% off to all quilters attending the show. Early full breakfasts. Weaver’s Dry Goods, one of Lancaster’s premier Quilt shops is just down the road.

Penryn Mudsale: March 19 Just 2 miles down the road this is one huge mudsale!

Michael Flatleys Lord of the Dance, 2 shows March 12 at the AMC

The Oak Ridge Boys at the American Music Theater March 19 This is a 3pm show and perfect for show, dinner and a night at Swiss Woods.

Snow Geese migrate through Lancaster County

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:35:00 +0000

Early February is just around the corner and while we look forward to it as a month of romance, chocolate and roaring fireplaces, it is also a wonderful nature month. Every year the migration of the snow geese takes place starting in the second half of January. The distinctive calls of the Tundra Swans and Snow Geese mixed with a few stray loons can be heard as they fly in for their landing at Speedwell Forge Lake. We are above this relatively small lake and only get some of the birds. Middle Creek Wildlife Preserve, a short 10 minute drive from the Inn, however, gets tens of thousands of these magnificent white geese as they migrate back to the northern tundra. Birdwatchers and Photographers from all over find their way to Lancaster County to enjoy this spectacle. Every year when Werner and I visit the lake to see this spectacle we are just in awe at the sheer number of birds and the beauty of it all.
Pack your binoculars and pay us a visit!

Snow Geese Special
Stay 2 nights and your 3rd night is free
Stay 1 night and the 2nd night is half price
Good February 1, 2011-March 31 2011 excepting February 18-20

This is also the best time of year to see the wolves at the PA Wolf Sanctuary. In the cooler months the wolves are more active as they are not dealing with the heat and have their wonderfully thick winter coats.
Consider a visit for one of their full moon tour weekends. It is worth the trip! Howling wolves in the full moonlight, unforgeable!
The weekend of February 19 is the next full moon tour. Book your room now for this weekend. There are still a few rooms available but they won't last long.

December is special in Lititz

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:22:00 +0000

I must say that I love to see the decorations go up in downtown Lititz. It is my favorite spot in Lancaster County for the old time feel of the Christmas season. Founded by the Moravians in the 1700's who also founded such towns as Bethlehem, PA and Winston-Salem NC, it has an old world charm about it that just lends itself to Christmas. Street lights are decked out with beautiful stars, Store fronts are decorated and the pub has seasonal beer on draft. What's not to like?

We just hosted a local couple who were escaping for a night before their kids got home from college and the relatives all descended at Christmas. They were looking for a night away to watch a movie, enjoy the fireplace, and just relax. Dinner at the pub and some shopping in town totally fit their mood, and after an amazing breakfast that featured stuffed hazelnut baked apples, a farmers fritata chock full of leeks, potatoes, bacon and peppers, and brandied pear muffins, they left energized to conquer the coming days.
That gave us an idea. In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle why not take a day off, escape to the peace and calm of the woods on the edge of town and enjoy some time together. We at Swiss Woods, would love to make that possible for you and are offering a special from now thru December 20, 2010. Any room, any night first come first serve... $135. Call it an "escape" special. Call it a visit Lititz special. Call it a "sit in front of the fire and drink tea" special. Whatever it is that you need this time of year, join us for a wonderful breakfast, peace quiet and the charm of the winter woods for the special price of only $135 a night for 2.

Later today, I will help with your holiday entertaining by putting a wonderful baked apple recipe up on the Eight Broads blog as well as (are you reading this Beth??) our Cranberry Cookies with Brown Butter Icing recipe. We wish you all a wonderful, cheerful and fun filled December. Don't forget to visit our online store for some amazing teas and our world class biscotti.

Recommended tea: Nutcracker Sweet , If you are looking for a tea that smells "Christmas" this is it. Very fragrant, filled with cinnamon, cloves, oranges and all manner of spices it is perfect for the holidays.

Swiss Woods Gift certificates make the perfect gift of time for those loved ones who could use a few days away. We ship these priority with maps and visitors guides to the county. Click HERE to order securely online.

EVENTS: December 10, 2010 Friday Second Friday Historic Downtown Lititz is bursting with energy every 2nd Friday of the month. Each month Downtown Merchants are happy to announce great family activities and entertainments, free and open to the public, in stores and venues throughout the downtown shopping area. The 2nd Friday of each month year round, rain or shine, 5-9pm.

December is for Decorating, Natural window boxes at Swiss Woods

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:19:00 +0000

It is amazing how quickly we go from a garden in full bloom to one that is dormant and resting for the winter. The cold snap hits and the last of the bright beautful blooms of summer and fall are brown and gone. It is then that, that we look at the garden with an eye toward decorating for the winter. Werner is really an artist at heart. I am continually amazed at his creative side when it comes to flora and fauna, landscaping in general. We have a huge variety of plants in our gardens. He does not cut them down or back until spring when he is getting ready for the summer plantings. Many of them have berries or seeds that feed the birds, some are bushy providing shelter for them during the cold winter months. There are long grasses with plumes, short twigs with bright red berries, prickly holly, and fragrent pine. All of this arranged together makes for interesting and beautiful window boxes and potted arrangements.
Take a walk in your backyard thinking of what can be cut and arranged to make an appealing decoration. Pine cones can be sprayed with gold paint or glitter to add some color and sparkle. Even bark can add some interest to an arrangement.
Add a little snow and you have added interest to your porch or pots in the garden.

We wish all of you much fun and enjoyment as you decorate for this holiday season.

Why I love Lititz

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 20:08:00 +0000

Cherry Acres

I am sure that I will not even hit half of the reasons why Lititz is such an amazing small town and why so many people put it on their must see list when visiting Lancaster County. Many of our guests come specifically for this quaint town filled with delightful shops, charming cafes, a really wonderful pub and permeated with the smell of chocolate. How can you not love a town that smells like chocolate while you shop?

Cherry Acres

One of my very favorite shops is Cherry Acres right on Main Street. They feature furniture made from old barn wood, enameled sinks, and a wide variety of metal artsy figures that are just plain fun. It is a place that you walk through and each time see something different. My last visit found me leaving with a wonderful old mirror framed in barn wood.

Morton Fine Furniture

Across the street you will find some of the finest furniture you can imagine at Morton Fine Furniture. Works of art, each individual piece is crafted to stand the test of time and beauty, all from the most beautiuful wood and many designs that are just breathtaking. I am in love with a table he has on display of light wood with darker inlays. There are pieces here that would make wonderful additions to anyone's home.

These are just a few of my favorites. Main Street is lined with many small shops including one at the Moravian Church, a favorite place to purchase Moravian Stars for the holidays.
After all this shopping a break at the Chocolate Cafe for one of their smooth and rich chocolate drinks is just a perfect way to break up the day. If you are into something stronger the Bull's Head pub just down the way has an impressive array of truly stellar beer on tap.

Chocolate Cafe`

So, it makes perfect sense to me that the Lititz Businesses called their once a month Friday's with longer hours, "lovin Lititz every Second"! There is music, food and the shops stay open till 9pm. Why not come join us Friday December 10 for some last minute shopping, in a town decorated to the hilt and with all the charm to match! We are so excited about this event that we are offering 25% off of a 2 night stay December 6-23, 2010. This kicks off a year of 25's for us as Swiss Woods goes into it's 25th year, but more on that in the next blog.
Now all we need are a few snow flurries to make it all just ... perfect.

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Rooms are avaialabe at the inn on all December weekends. Gift Certificates to Swiss Woods make a wonderful gift for the holidays. And we are pleased to announce that you can now shop Swiss Woods from home at www.swisswoodstea.com our online store. All the teas you have come to know and love as well as our incredible toffee and biscotti are all available here.

Lancaster , Lititz and Mt Gretna all venues for upcomming art and craft shows

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:18:00 +0000

Pick your weekend! Any weekend. Art and Craft shows abound.

This coming weekend, August 14, the annual Lititz Craft show takes over Lititz. Over 700 crafters line Lititz Springs Park as well as Broad and Main Streets with booths of interesting crafts and artwork. People come from all over to visit this show and it is so popular with vendors that there is a waiting list to be able to show here. Parking is well orcestrated and trollys run often.

The following weekend August 21 Mt Gretna turns from a sleepy little summer cottage town into a buzzing village filled with artists showing their works. This town is just 15 minuites from the inn and beautiful in it's own right. 200 juried artists are to be found and it is well worth a trip.

Labor Day weekend the annual Longs Park Arts and Craft show takes over the huge park just outside of Lancaster. 200 juried artists bring their works to show here. There are discounted tickets availabe on their website.

We love August with all of its fun things to do. Make Swiss Woods your base as you take advantage of all that Lancaster County has to offer!

The Wuppertal Boys Choir vists Lancaster in August

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:20:00 +0000

Join me on Sunday August 15 at Mellinger Mennonite Church for the Wuppertal Boys Choir. This is part of the ongoing series of programs celebrating the 300 year anniversary of Mennonite settlers in Lancaster County. I have looked forward to this particular program all summer and it is just around the corner.

Biking is always popular here and this year has been no exception. At guest requests Werner has spent time mapping out some wonderful biking tours to the north of us where there is less traffic and and still that wonderful farmland landscape that everyone loves. His latest ride was 30 miles and included a stop at Middle Creek Wildlife Preserve where, if you are lucky you will see the nesting eagles. If you need to rent bikes we have just the place. Green Mountain Bikes is a short 15 minutes from the inn and will deliver. Let us know and we are happy to make the arrangements for you. Bikes are a wonderful way to explore all of the back roads at a leisurely pace.

Lancaster Pa's Keys for the City

noreply@blogger.com (Innkeeper) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:48:00 +0000

Keys for the City...
Pianos show up all over Lancaster City for any and everyone to play.

Over the past decade it has been fun to watch a variety of symbols show up in our cities not only nationwide but internationaly. Zurich had cows, I believe they were the first to start this fun trend, decorated in every imaginable way dotted thoughout the downtown. Burlington Vt had moose, fun ones creatively featured in front of stores or on downtown corners. And now, Lancaster, PA has pianos. I kind of like this one because it is different and interactive, and promotes music along with art. Yes, the pianos are decorated, painted, designed in all manner of themes but the best part is that they are designed to be played. Anyone wandering past is welcome to have a seat and play their heart out.
Arriving in May, they have found a wonderful reception. From the very young to the very mature, people enjoy the opportunity to play for their own private concert hall, Lancaster, the stage. Here (short video link) you get a good feel for how much fun this is. Click here for another wonderful clip.

We encourage you to add a stop in downtown Lancaster during your stay with us. First Fridays are a good choice as shops are open late, there is special music and special everything on the streets. Any market day is also a good choice (Tue, Friday and Saturday) Find a piano, any piano,(here is a map of them all), settle in and let your inner Chopin perform

Lititz welcomes Bulls Head Pub

noreply@blogger.com (Debbie) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 13:41:00 +0000

Lititz has always been a quaint and wonderful town chock full of interesting stores, small cafes, a fabulous park and even a small farmers markets. The General Sutter Inn on the corner of Broad and Main has a varied and flavorful menu, outdoor seating in the warmer months and now to make a good thing better they have opened Bulls Head Pub adjacent to the restaurant. I decided to take a look on Saturday afternoon and was greeted by a completely full house, standing room only. The menu was simple but good. Chicken and Leek Pie, Fish and Chips and Sticky Toffee Pudding. But the best thing about this beer pub was of course, the beer. I counted no less than 15 micro brews on tap including 2 casks, a chocolate stout and a frambois (raspberry) lambic. Check the chalkboard picture below. I am a huge fan of the fruited beers and the Cherish raspberry lambic was wonderful.

So a big hearty welcome to Bulls Head. Lititz is thrilled to have you here!

noreply@blogger.com (Debbie) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:33:00 +0000

So, What’s there to do?

I get this question daily as we answer the phones and help our guests plan a stay they will enjoy in Lancaster County. Every time I go through this exercise I am amazed at the variety and “amount” of activities available to people visiting (or living in!) Lancaster. From wildlife preserves and sanctuaries to a vibrant downtown to quaint villages the breadth of interests is truly amazing. History buffs can immerse themselves in Civil War History, Anabaptist History, or Settler’s History. Shoppers are in Outlet Heaven. Antiquers have Renningers and the many auctions particularly in the springtime. Gardeners have huge garden centers, the Leola Auction as well as Longwood Gardens within driving distance, not to mention the grounds here at the inn! Those who enjoy music and theater have great options including Fulton Opera House, Ephrata Playhouse, Rainbow Dinner Theater and the American Music Theater or the wonderful music in the vineyard events at Nissley Vineyards. And the list goes on! For the foodies there are farmers markets, wineries and amazing restaurants including an English Style Pub with great micro brews on tap that just opened adjacent to the General Sutter Inn in Lititz.

So, our challenge as innkeepers is to keep you current on what is happening here so you can choose your visits well. I will try as we go into the summer season to list the most interesting (subjective I know) events here. We certainly welcome your feedback if there are types of things you especially wish to learn about our county.

April 2 First Friday, Downtown Lancaster

April 10 Rawlinsville Mud Sale at the Rawlinsville Fire Co

April 17 & 18 Lancaster Art Walk

April 24 Full moon wolf tour, Wolf Sancturary of PA

Thru April 24 Nana’s Naughty Knickers, The Rainbow Dinner Theater

Thru October 30, Joseph, Sight and Sound Theater

April 20 Vince Gill, American Music Theater

April 21 The Beach Boys, American Music Theater

April 22, Comic Bill Engval, American Music Theater

April 24, Bryan Adams, American Music Theater

Looking ahead:

June 26, The Letterman, American Music Theater

June 27, the Platters, Drifters and Coasters, American Music Theater

July 6, Ringo, American Music Theater

Aug 1, Amy Grant, American Music Theater

Sept 10, Stephen Curtis Chapman, American Music Theater

Give us a call if you have questions, want suggestions, or wish to make a reservation.

March in Lancaster, Swans and Mud Sales

noreply@blogger.com (Debbie) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 16:22:00 +0000

It is hard to believe that winter is almost over, or at least we hope it is. The sun is shining brightly and the almost 4 feet of snow is down to about 2 feet. This is the time of year we look forward to the Tundra Swans and Whistling Swans stopping at the lake on their way north. There were several groups here before the snows and the larger migration will now start. 10’s of thousands will land here at Speedwell Forge lake but many more will stop at Middle Creek Wildlife Preserve, a short 10 minute drive from the inn. Bird enthusiasts from all over the US find there way to Middle Creek to watch the huge flocks of birds take off and land. It is truly amazing. Though it is hard to predict when the largest flocks will be there, there are significant numbers from now through the middle of March. As soon as the warm weather arrives the birds are gone so the earlier you plan your visit, the better. We are so enthused about this migration we are offering Sunday-Thursday nights, stay 2 nights and the second night is 50% off. Ask for the Migration special when booking. We also offer a late check out with this offer (subject to availability) so that you can spend a full day watching the swans.

March is also Mud Sale month! Appropriately named because the spring thaw tends to be muddy, these sales are community oriented and feature everything from quilts to farm equipment. There are handmade crafts, furniture, antiques.. you name it, the list is long. The closest one to the inn is the Penryn Mud Sale on March 20. If you follow this link you will see a list of what is all there as well as pictures from past year offerings. There is remote parking and shuttle services. Just remember to pack a pair of boots. There are mud sales every weekend from Feb 20 through April 28. Ask for our 10% mudsale discount when booking your stay.

A complete list of the wide variety of mud sales in Lancaster County can be found at the Lancaster Tourist Bureau website.