WINTER GETAWAYS

It may be cold outside, but these romantic wintry escapes are hot!

By Mallory Arnold Story Design by Victoria Smith

↑ Granville, courtesy Timothy E Black

inter can get dull if you stay inside with your loved one binging a Netflix show you’ve already watched and ordering in from restaurants you have way too often. Romantic getaways don’t have to involve the sun and a beach – in fact, we’re here to prove that romance can be found nestled by an inn’s fireplace, in a Christmas castle, on a carriage ride or between a seasonal wine selection.

Below, we’ve put together the best romantic winter getaways in and around Ohio.

Granville

Straight from a Hallmark Christmas movie, this charming village is nestled outside of Columbus in Licking County. Reminiscent of a New-England town, Granville has plenty of adorable cafes, boutiques and restaurants that you and your partner can explore all weekend. Stay in one of the historic hotels or cozy bed and breakfasts. →

For the outdoorsy couple, take on a romantic adventure by hiking through some of Cuyahoga Valley’s 125-plus miles of trails. Destinations that are crowded in the warmer months, like Towpath Trail and Brandywine Falls) are quiet and peaceful on a wintry day. After hiking, take a train ride through Ohio’s only National Park and see it blanketed in sparkling snow. The journey isn’t only filled with beautiful views, but you’ll enjoy an afternoon of cozying up with a warm cup of cocoa and chocolate chip cookies.

↑ Landoll's Mohican Castle, courtesy Landoll's Castle

Holmes County is home to one of the largest Amish settlements in the U.S. There is truly no better place for the ultimate cozy getaway with no distractions. Tranquil, simple and gorgeous in the winter, Holmes County has several hotels to stay in for a weekend. Enjoy warm Amish comfort food like soups, dumplings and bread, explore boutiques and attend performances at Ohio Star Theater.

Surrounded by the frozen Hocking Hills State Park, you and your partner will stay warm in your Cedar Fall’s Jacuzzi. Perfect to rid yourselves of seasonal stress, this getaway includes couples massages and spa treatments. Nature’s backdrop is perfect to escape reality for a little while and focus on you and your partner. →

Is there anything more magical or romantic than Christmas in a castle? Every evening Nov. 25-Dec. 24, Landoll’s Castle, located in Loudonville, is aglow with over 150,000 lights, Christmas trees and carols. Stroll the grounds hand in hand or enjoy a hearty winter meal at The Copper Mug Grille. Landholl’s Mohican Castle has 11 suites with jetted tubs, fireplaces and more. This getaway is fit for royalty.

↑ Cedar Falls Inn & Spa, courtesy Cedar Falls

These Tuscan-style Villas are set with cozy fireplaces, heated floors and luxurious beds. Enjoy carriage rides, craft beer tasting, cooking classes and winery tours in this romantic Italian-inspired atmosphere. This experience is particularly great for wine enthusiasts, as the winery features award-winning sips and over 30 varieties.

In the winter, the Georgian Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast sits atop a 1.3-acre winter wonderland with a beautiful garden sleeping underneath snow. The Inn provides a romantic getaway and a serene retreat with a plethora of rooms to choose from like the Lady Anne or the Lord Sheldon. Take an easy walk to Historic West Main Street to browse through specialty shops and grab a bite to eat or tour one of the local Norwalk wineries, D&D Smith Winery, Shady Ridge Vineyards and Paper Moon Winery.

Guernsey County is famous for its Dickens Victorian Village, a Christmas walking tour experience that replicates 1850’s England. The historic courthouse is aglow with thousands of lights dancing to holiday music, the trolley winds you through the snowy streets of Cambridge and a special candlelight walk is held to celebrate the season. Stay in one of the many nationallyrecognized hotels and relish in an old-fashioned Christmas romance.

↑ Dickens Victorian Village in Cambridge, courtesy Dickens Victorian Village