Swiss Woods Bed and Breakfast

What to do with 3 days in Lititz, Lancaster County

2011-10-16T18:00:00.002-04:00

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

2011-09-21T16:01:00.000-04:00

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

2011-09-07T21:15:00.001-04:00

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

2011-08-23T16:48:00.000-04:00

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

2011-07-21T13:52:00.001-04:00

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!

2011-06-01T11:52:00.000-04:00

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

2011-05-21T17:32:00.001-04:00

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!

2011-05-18T17:04:00.000-04:00

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

2011-02-22T16:45:00.000-05:00

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

2011-02-02T12:00:00.006-05:00

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

2011-01-20T16:35:00.000-05:00

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

2010-12-03T11:22:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-29T18:19:00.000-05:00

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

2010-11-21T15:08:00.000-05:00

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.

Join us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/swisswoods
Follow us on Twitter #swisswoods
Sign up for our newsletter at www.swisswoods.com

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

2010-08-09T11:18:00.000-04:00

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

2010-08-03T12:20:00.000-04:00

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

2010-07-13T11:48:00.002-04:00

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

2010-04-05T09:41:00.005-04:00

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!

2010-03-29T16:33:00.002-04:00

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

2010-02-19T11:22:00.006-05:00

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.

Dream Weekends in Lancaster County

2010-02-01T15:11:00.010-05:00

Join us for the first in a series of Dream Weekends here at the inn. We are very excited about the specials we have in store for 2010 and are launching these weekends with our Wine and Wolves Weekend Feb 26 and 27.

We have been dreaming here at Swiss Woods and would like to share some of our excitement with you. There are so many things to do and explore around the Inn and we have decided offer Dream Weekend packages. Our inaugural Dream Weekend will be Wine and Wolves Weekend Feb 26 and 27, 2010.

Partnering with the PA Wolf Sanctuary which is located right across the lake from the inn and with Waltz Vineyards in Manheim we have put together a fun and educational time. Take a break in your winter routine and join us for this exceptional event.

Included in this package:

Friday check in dinner. 5-8pm whenever you arrive

Debbie’s wonderful oven roasted Beef Stew, freshly baked cornbread, and a sweet Lemon Toffee Pudding for dessert.

Saturday- Our superb full breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 AM, off to an

11 am wine tasting tour at Waltz Vineyard followed by lunch in the barrel room at the winery. Waltz Vineyard is the area’s premier winery with some really wonderful wines. Jan and Kim will tell you about the grapes and the winemaking process. We just love this place and are excited to share it with you. They have won numerous awards in the past 2 years making them one of the premier wineries in Pennsylvania. As they say, these are the wines that will make you change your mind!

Saturday- afternoon is free to shop in Lititz or you may want to visit Middle Creek Wildlife preserve to watch the Tundra Swan migration. (10 minutes from the inn). The migration time varies from year-to-year but this should be a good weekend to see the swans. At the peak of migration the fields around middle Creek are covered with swans. Enthusiasts come from all over to photograph these amazing birds.

Dinner on your own – consider the General Sutter Inn, conveniently located on the square in Lititz or Cappricios a casual Italian Cafe. We would be happy to make your reservations to ensure that you will be finished in time for the moonlight tour.

Saturday 7:30- Moonlight tour at the PA Wolf Sanctuary. This evening includes a bonfire, tour of the wolf enclosures, music and hopefully howling wolves! They are more active in the winter than in the summer so dress warmly and enjoy this rare treat.

Sunday morning brunch at the inn 9-11am with late check out. Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with no hurry to leave. We are extending check out on this weekend till 6pm.

First Floor Rooms: Lugano, San Bernadino, Wilhelm Tell and Emmental:

Double occupancy $450.00 plus tax

Upstairs: Lake of Geneva, Appenzell and the Matterhorn Suite: double occupancy $525 plus tax

Rooms available on a first come first serve basis so reserve yours early.

2009-06-03T11:25:00.001-04:00

Eight Broads in the Kitchen

2009-06-03T10:06:00.003-04:00

Last week 7 other innkeepers and myself, launched a new blog that is all about food. It is difficult to keep this blog just about recipes and to keep it up to date so we are using the network of friends and innkeepers that I have come to know over the past few years and sharing a great food site. This will allow me to make this one more about the inn, the grounds, activities that are going on and just other interesting things in general. I truly hope you will find your way over to Eight Broads in the Kitchen and enjoy the recipes and stories from some of the most wonderful innkeepers I know.

Also, if you would like to follow Swiss Woods on Facebook or Twitter we are there! Twitter is @debi1156 for right now though I also have @swisswoods reserved and need to get it up and going. Look for updates on things to do, last minuite specials and other interesting facts. We promise not to overload your in box but will try and keep current with things that are of interest.

The wedding

2008-11-03T11:42:00.005-05:00

Many of you know that our oldest daughter Mirjam became engaged to Dwight Zimmerman in the spring and they were married on Sept 29. The wedding was in a local church and the reception took place here at the inn on the lawn. A group of innkeeping friends flew in to help me with the food and to take over and run the reception. I can only say how amazing they all are and how humbled and thrilled I am to call them friends.
A special thank you to:

Peter and Susan Glaubitz, innkeepers emeritus from Eagles Mere, PA
Anne Marie De Freest, innkeeper extraordinare, The Inn at Round Barn Farm, VT www.theroundbarn.com
Liza Simpson, friend and chef, Park City, UT
Lynnette Schoffield, innkeeper friend, The William Henry Miller Inn in Ithaca, NY www.millerinn.com
Kathryn White, innkeeper friend, The Beechmont Inn, Gettysburg, PA www.thebeechmont.com
Betty Gladden, innkeeper emeritus and great friend from Alameda, CA
Phyllis Murry, innkeeper and friend who chose to spend her 70th birthday helping us put this event on. She is from the Montford Inn in Norman OK www.montfordinn.com

It was a beautiful day in spite of rain in the morning and early afternoon, all clearing just in time for the reception. Click here to see wedding pictures.
The photographer also has a blog that can be found here.

I can only say how blessed we are not only with our friends and family and innkeeper friends. A huge thanks to each of you.

Pumpkin Pancakes

2008-11-03T11:28:00.002-05:00

The fall of the year is always a good time to dig out all the pumpkin recipes. This year we are still enjoying beautiful color on the trees and it is November! Bonus time for sure.
These pumpkin cream pancakes are a favorite of our returning guests. As I was reading the sheet for our arriving guests today one of them had a note with it requesting the pumpkin pancakes. It reminded me that others of you may enjoy this as well.

Pumpkin Pancakes

2 cups of flour
4 tablespoons sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon (use a good one- I prefer Saigon)
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1 cup canned or frozen pumpkin puree
1 cup sour cream (or yogurt)
pinch of salt

Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl
In a separate bowl whisk butter, milk, eggs, pumpkin, and sour cream
Stir in dry ingredients
Pour by 1/4 cupfuls onto a hot griddle
Flip when bubbles start to form on the top
Serve with honey steamed apples and enjoy!

Baked Oatmeal

2008-06-10T10:16:00.002-04:00

Lancaster County has many dishes that you don't find elsewhere in the US. PA Dutch cooking is an odd blend of old world German and new word colonial. Corn, used for cattle only in Germany till recently, is a staple in the PA Dutch kitchen. Simple foods, prepared well and savored with friends and family. That would about sum up PA Dutch cooking.
Baked oatmeal is one of those old time dishes that we prepare for breakfast. I am amazed at the overwhelmingly positive reaction to this basic simple dish that is packed with flavor and healthy. It also works well for gluten free diets. To the basic recipe we often add left over honey steamed apples, peaches, sour cherries, blueberries, or just about any fruit that bakes well. I have even mixed in mangos and pineapple.
This holds well in the refrigerator after it has been baked and warms well in the microwave for a quick filling breakfast that kids will enjoy before school.

Baked Oatmeal

1/4 cup cooking oil (I have even used light olive oil)
1/2 cup brown or raw sugar (or 1/3 cup honey)
1 egg
1 1/2 cup quick oats
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk

Cream oil, sugar and egg together
Add all other ingredients and mix
Pour into an 8 inch square cake pan, greased
Bake 350F for 30 min.
Serve with milk

Variations:
1. Add 1/4 cup golden raisins, 1/4 cup nuts and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
2. Line the bottom of the pan with sliced apples
3. Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries or peaches.

Potato Quiche

2008-03-04T13:23:00.002-05:00

Breakfast here rotates between savory and sweet, one morning featuring something in the pancake, waffle, french toast realm, and the next an egg dish of some sort. This recipe was born from a love of potatoes and eggs. I vividly recall sitting around the kitchen table at home and mom would gently fry leftover potatoes with onion and then scramble and egg into them. Yum. We have taken some of those same flavors and added whatever is happening fresh in the garden to come up with this wonderful flavorful breakfast dish.

4 medium potatoes, cooked
1 small onion chopped
2 Tbsp butter, melted
3/4 tea salt
1/4 cup diced red pepper
1 small zucchini julienned
1 bunch parsley, chopped
(chives, marjoram, and thyme can all be added as well)
1 medium tomato, diced
1 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese

Liberally oil a 9x13 baking dish with olive oil
Grate the potatoes using a coarse grater and layer on the bottom of the dish. Do not press down.
Scatter the onion, red peppers, zucchini, and herbs over the potatoes
Sprinkle with the salt
Drizzle butter over all
Layer the sharp cheese over the top

2 cups half and half
1 cup heavy cream
1 tea dried mustard
1/2 tea salt
1/4 tea ground pepper

Mix together and pour over the layered potatoes and cheese.

Bake 350F for 45 min testing for a knife to come out clean. Continue baking if it does not test done.
Remove from the heat and allow to stand for 5-10 min before serving.

2008-02-11T20:44:00.001-05:00

18 months ago our beloved Bernease Mountain Dog Rosie died prematurly of a twisted stomach, sometimes known as bloat. We were devastated and thought we would never be able to whole heartedly welcome another dog into our hearts and to the inn.
It is a very long story how this came to be but the end of the story includes Werner taking a trip to Montreal to pick up a 7 week old puppy who we have named Baeri, after the Swiss St Bernard that saved a bunch of skiers lost in an avalanche. The long and short is we have a puppy who has totally exceeded our greatest hopes and expectations. He is loving, calm (for a pup) loyal and a ball of fluff. He lives on our side in the kennel and outside. If you dont see him when you visit ask! We are only to happy to share a puppy hug.

August 1, the Swiss National holiday

2007-08-02T18:14:00.001-04:00

August 1 is to the Swiss what July 4th is to America. We always love this day of commemorating Switzerland and are especially thrilled when a visit from friends coincides with it. Yesterday was just one of these days and we did the traditional cervalat, veal sausage and regular sausage on the grill. Swiss cervalat are more like a non garlic garlic link and have the consistency of a hot dog. Other friends brought some along for the Swiss Pork Shop in northern NJ and they grilled up beautifully.
The Swiss love salads and are incredibly creative with them. Our family favorites include a red beet salad with onions and a roasted corn salad with pimento and a ranch type dressing. Add a red skin potato salad with red pablano peppers, vidalia onions, some mustard and the secret ingredient, beef broth, and we were set!
Part of the traition includes hanging 'Lampions" lanterns with candles inside, Swiss flags and banners from the various cantons as well as bon fires. Tradition says that these bon fires were used to communicate between the villages when there were emergencies.

The bees and honey

2007-07-27T09:21:00.000-04:00

Last year was, what I considered, a bumper crop of honey but little did I know that it would pale in comparison to this year. With all the worries about disappearing bees it is wonderful to watch Werner's bees thrive. The honey flow earlier in the summer was incredible and I watched as Werner added super after super. Those are the little boxes that they stack on top of each other.
Last night he donned his new white bee suit and went to check on 'the ladies' returning an hour later to share that we would need at least another 5 of the 5 gallon buckets. Amazing. We will spin it out of the combs in August.
We bottle this raw, which means we do not heat it before filling the honey bears or bottles. Heating the honey first allows it to stay in liquid form without crystallizing, but it destroys all the beneficial pollens. We prefer it raw and love the rich flavor of true wild flower honey.

One of my favorite recipes that benefits from this deep flavor is more of a fall one. Mother and Dad, while travelling in the Black Forrest years ago, had dinner in one of the traditional old farmhouses that are so popular there. For dessert they ordered something called honey apples. These were apples sauteed at the table in honey and served with whipped cream. Over the years I have played with this idea and we now do a honey and brandy apple that is the perfect accompaniment to a cinnamon raisin stuff french toast.

Honey Apples with Brandy and Lemon

4 apples, peeled, cored and sliced
4 Tbsp honey
2 tbsp butter
1 lemon, juice and zest
3 Tbsp brandy

In a skillet melt the butter and add the apples sauteing for 5 min
Add the juice from the lemon and the zest
Continue to saute till tender
Right before serving warm the brandy in small pot. Do not boil.
Carefully light the brandy and pour flaming over the apples
Stir until the flames die down and the alcohol is burnt off.
Serve warm over french toast or as dessert with a dollop of honey cinnamon whipped cream

Honey Cinnamon Whipped Cream
1/2 cup whipping or heavy cream
2 Tbsp honey
1/2 teaspoon good cinnamon (preferably Vietnamese)

Whip the cream to soft peaks gently adding the honey by drizzling it in.
Add the cinnamon and finish whipping being very careful not to whip too far and turn it to butter!

Serve over the warm apples

Baked Blueberry French Toast

2007-07-20T09:16:00.000-04:00

When berries are ripe and plentiful, this is a true crowd pleaser. It holds its heat well on a buffet table and is just delicious.

12 slices white bread, cut into generous 1 inch cubes
12 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 cup blueberries (blackberries, peaches, raspberries, or any mix)
12 eggs
2 cups milk
1/3 cup honey
grated orange zest

Grease a 9X13 casserole dish
Put half of the bread cubes on the bottom
Half of the berries on top of the bread
Scatter with half of the cream cheese
zest of half of the orange
Repeat with the rest of the bread, berries, cream cheese and zest
Mix the eggs, milk and honey and pour over top
Place in the refrigerator overnight
Remove from the refrigerator, let stand at room temperature for 15 min to temper
Bake in a 350F oven for about an hour or until a knife comes out clean
Serve hot with blueberry sauce

Bluebirds

2007-07-13T11:42:00.001-04:00

Ok... so this has nothing to do with food but...

We have a huge variety of birds here on the property. Being located next to woodland, meadow, and lake give us a diversity that is just incredible. This week I spotted a Scarlet Taniger in one of the Hickory trees. They are unusual and I will be happy if I see him again all summer.

Bluebirds are one of our favorites and we have tried for years to encourage them to nest in boxes around the property. It would appear that we have finally succeeded as the box out next to the cornfield is the proud host of 4 small eggs. Mama bluebird flits in and out and I hope to get a picture of her to post here. We will let you know how the eggs come along and hope for baby birds soon.

Breakfast this morning....

2007-07-12T16:29:00.000-04:00

was a potato quiche. We have always had wonderful potatoes from the garden and tons of them so we came up with a long list of breakfast recipes to use them. This has become a favorite. Dont skim on the cheese! Use a good, flavorful aged cheddar and fresh flavorful herbs. Everything works in this from mushrooms to tomatoes, leeks and spinach. Be creative. Go wild!

Butter a 9X13 baking dish
Grated potatoes, enough to cover the bottom of a baking dish
Do not pat the potatoes into place. Allowe them to stay loose as it will allow the filling to .. fill in around them.
Slice julianne a small green zuchinni, yellow squash, 1/2 cup leek rings, and 1/4 cup finely diced red peppers
Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Cover with 1 cup grated extra sharp cheddar cheese
Pour 3 tbsp melted butter over the top
1 bunch parsley, chives, chopped and sprinkled over top of the cheese

Quiche filling:

1 cup whipping cream
1 cup light cream
5 eggs
1/2 tea ground mustard powder
freshly grated pepper to taste
1/2 tea sea salt

Whisk together and gently pour over the entire casserole.

Bake 325 for 1 hr until a knife comes out clean.
Serve immediatly

Morning in the garden

2007-07-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Before breakfast I often walk through the wet grass to gather herbs, see what birds are about and check out the pond for new water lilies. The red currants in the garden are done and the blackberries are just now starting. We move from one fruit to the next enjoying the diversity and flavor. Day lilys of every color are blooming profusely and I am once again reminded how fortunate I am to actually live here!

Potato Pancakes

2007-07-11T09:03:00.001-04:00

We serve these as a side dish to a sweet breakfast. This morning it was a wonderful crisp waffle with fresh berries, baked Lancaster County sausage and our own pancake syrup.

3 cups shredded potatoes
2 Tbsp flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced red or green peppers
1 bunch parsley ( 1/8 cup chopped)
1/8 tsp freshly grated pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

oil or butter for the griddle

Cook and cool potatoes.
Preheat a griddle or frying pan. Add some oil or butter or a combination of both
Peel and grate with a coarse grater
Add flour, eggs, cheese, onion, peppers, parsley, butter and seasonings
Mix gently with a spoon till combined
Drop onto hot griddle using a large spoon. Do not pack or form as these are better if they are somewhat loosely connected. Press only enough to shape and hold together.
Fry till golden brown flipping once
Serve hot