While many vacation retreats offer a range of attractions, few could truly be described as magical, and Nemacolin resort is that exception.
Located in the sweeping hills of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, this year the resort is celebrating its 35th anniversary, which is made extra-special by the fact that the same family still owns and runs the entire estate. For the third consecutive year, Nemacolin has won 22 Forbes stars, which are well-earned by the resort’s three highly-individualized options for accommodations, as well as their awe-inspiring on-site restaurants. Both Lautrec, serving Euro-American cuisine, and Aqueous, Nemacolin’s fresh and vibrant eatery inspired by the sea, have contributed to these illustrious stars. Finally, when it’s time for an adventure, Nemacolin offers a truly diverse range of attractions that can be enjoyed year-round.
Inspired by the Ritz Paris, The Chateau offers glamorous chandelier-clad rooms and suites, along with on-site dining at Lautrec, which serves a menu as decadent as the restaurant’s alluring surroundings. Reserved for overnight guests and resort members, Lautrec invites visitors to partake in a remarkable six-course chef’s tasting menu. The restaurant is also home to six original lithograph prints from French painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, which you can take-in as you sip one of the 12,000-bottles of perfectly-curated wines housed in the cellar, which is Pennsylvania’s largest.
The original hotel is now known as The Lodge, is inspired by nature and a true retreat for wellness-focused travelers. Each nature-inspired room offers complimentary access to the Cleveland Clinic Wellness programs, as well as aromatherapy, soundscape machines and dawn simulation lights. For the architecture-lovers, the resort is home to Falling Rock, which is inspired by the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture nearby. It offers luxury amenities and art-deco interiors that will leave you feeling rested and inspired.
While the accommodations will make it hard to leave your room, you simply must in order experience the sweeping range of attractions. The Paradise Pool offers a relaxed ambiance that’s home to cabanas, a la carte food and beverage service, and even a water slide. Don’t worry, that isn’t the only pool on this stunning property. For more water-based adventures, head to The Peak, where you can treat the family to a year-round outdoor pool and hot tub, ropes courses, zip-lining and canopy tours.
From there, book an encounter with Nemacolin’s Furry Farm Friends or go horseback riding on an equestrian adventure. There are also plenty of adventures for the adults. The Peak offers Jeep off-roading, cosmic bowling, indoor axe-throwing and paintball. If art is more your speed, tour one of the three on-site art galleries that are home to permanent and special collections that rotate throughout the year.
When it’s time to relax, book a specialty service at the Woodlands Spa and Salon, awarded 14th in the U.S. for Spa Resorts by the Conde Nast Traveler 2022 Readers' Choice Awards, on top of the spa's 4-star rating by Forbes. The spa offers a sauna, a steam room, pools and fireplaces – all of which make it a perfectly idyllic experience. The world-class services include a range of facials, massages and holistic treatments. To further embrace your mind, body and spirit, head to the Holistic Healing Center, which offers curated wellness packages that include consultations with coaches who can guide you through the treatments that will be most beneficial for you. The center offers saltwater float therapy, cryotherapy, infrared light therapies and so much more.
With such a range of activities and attractions, the resort would be the perfect place to host the wedding of your dreams. In addition to on-site homes and estates that would be perfect for your guests and wedding party, the property offers a range of backdrops and restaurants. Dance the night away in one of the ballrooms, or sip custom cocktails in The Chateau Gardens alongside your friends and loved ones. Nemacolin offers a design studio, Atelier, that will help you bring your wildest dreams to life for your event.
Nemacolin is also known as a world-class destination for golfers thanks to its two on-property courses that were designed by the legendary Pete Dye. From the scenic Mystic Rock course, which sits atop the Allegheny Mountains, to Shephard’s Rock, where golfers will greet a course as fun as it is challenging, there’s truly something for players of all levels. The kids can even join-in on the fun at the 18-hole Fallingbrook Mini Golf course.
Whether you’re looking for a restful retreat set in the most picturesque of backdrops, or a fun-filled family getaway that will keep everyone busy, Nemacolin has something for you. Pack your bags and leave a little extra room for some magic.