The main cabin, The Big House, at the Lodge at Glendorn. All photography courtesy of the Lodge at Glendorn.
The Vibe: Think about taking rustic, woodlands, gorgeous scenery and drool-worthy food and adding in just the right amount of luxury. That’s what you get at The Lodge at Glendorn. It redefines what rustic/chic means by offering everything that you could want with nature, but not being over the top when it comes to luxury. Whether you’re packing your winter gear for a holiday in the snow, your hiking shoes for a summer or fall trip, or just looking for a relaxing weekend any time of the year, Glendorn offers guests that personalized, comfortable vibe (and an added bonus for Torontonians – it’s only a 3.5 hour drive from the city).
The Facts: Nestled in the heart of Northwest Pennsylvania, this 12-cabin lodge is set next to the Allegheny National Forest, which means nature abounds at every corner. The main lodge was constructed in 1929 by its original owner, C. G. Dorn, and still keeps its original charm to this day with redwood panelling, the same chandeliers, and even the same furnishings. The property then expanded with other cabins for visiting friends and family of Dorn and in 1995 it became the oasis of a hotel that it is today.
The Experience: The moment you arrive at The Lodge at Glendorn you will be in awe of the pristine beauty. Thick Pennsylvania woods line the dirt road leading to the property and once you pass a few turns you’ll end up at the lodge’s main cottage, the Big House, which looks like a mini ski-chalet with giant dining rooms, a cozy fireplace, a games area and comfy lounging spaces. But what awaits you at your own cabin is what will steal your heart. Warm cookies and wine are a welcome greeting once you step inside, as are the old-fashioned, charming rooms, the full kitchen and countless fireplaces awaiting a roaring fire.
One of the biggest sells of the lodge is the property itself – the enormous amount of land means endless days of play all-year round. In the winter you can snowshoe the trails, hop on a snowmobile and make your way up the mountains, skate on the little lakes that dot the property, and cook up some s’mores over an open fire after dinner.
In the fall, spring and summer, you can hike the 28 miles of trails (especially nice in the fall as the leaves change colour), try your hand at fly fishing in one of the many lakes or in the trout-filled stream, hang out poolside, take up a game of tennis or golf, go kayaking, or sit by a fire in the evening.
To top off the whole experience, a fine dining restaurant whips up mouthwatering eats throughout the day thanks to Executive Chef Joe Schafer. The handmade pastries for breakfast in the morning are to die for, lunch is always hearty and fresh, and for dinner, well, make sure you go hungry and opt for the tasting menu because Chef Schafer’s creations and local flavours will be worth every calorie (and they don’t count on vacation, anyway).
Room to Book: Forget booking a room. You need to book a cabin to get the real experience. The Roost is the ultimate, with enough rooms to sleep nine (yes, we said nine), a full kitchen, multiple fireplaces, four bathrooms, and fully stocked to make it feel like your own private cottage (from toothbrushes and toothpaste in each washroom to cookies and hot chocolate in the kitchen). It also comes with a large outdoor patio, where late summer evening dinners are a must – you may never want to actually leave your home away from home.
Price: $$$$
Where to Find:
The Lodge at Glendorn
1000 Glendorn Drive
Bradford, PA 16701
1-800-843-8568, glendorn.com
