The scenic three-hour drive from Baltimore to Nemacolin Woodland Resort in Farmington, Pennsylvania is a peaceful one. The resort derives its name from an Amerindian named Chief Nemacolin who showed early settlers how to cross the rugged Allegheny barrier ridges. Today, his name symbolizes the great outdoors and the resort honors that with its offerings for families who love being outside.
Nemacolin is a year-round getaway for families. A known destination for Pennsylvanians, it's a best kept secret to the rest of the MidAtlantic. Offering a host of activities that vary by season, families can only scratch the top of this 2,000 acre iceberg in just one visit. And this is why they keep returning. One faithful mom noted, "This place is a hidden gem and on my list of favorites. I have been at least five times. We uncovered it accidentally and have been hooked ever since."
Nemacolin offers six lodging options, including one for families with RVs. Falling Rock is the resort's Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond boutiqe hotel, open from May until October. Excluding the RV Park, Nemacolin's other lodging options are available throughout the year. We stayed at the Chateau, a beautiful property inspired by the famed Ritz Paris in France. Our stay couldn't have been more comfortable with plush queen beds, dual vanity sinks, steam shower, whirlpool tub, and main room seating area. From the reception lobby to the suites, everything in the Chateau is grand.
Peak time for the resort is April through October. During winter, families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing, dog sledding, walking trail rides through the Wildlife Nursery, safari tours, fly fishing guided tours, shooting, bird hunting, wild animal shows, winter concert series and few crowds.
Our family took snowboarding lessons on one of the area's most beginner-friendly slopes. Instructors were attentive and patient, offering nothing but encouragement. Resort-employeed photographers were available on the slopes to capture memories, relieving family members from the distraction.
Nemacolin's Activities Director, Matt Grobe, puts together a detailed list of things to do weekly and works at continuoulsy being innovative with the resort's offerings. Children have the opportunity to hang with their parents throughout the day or spend half/full days at the Kidz Klub. "The Klub" admits children from 4 years to 15 years old, whereas the Little Tykes Program provides care for kiddos from 6 weeks to 3 years old. Prices range from $40 - $100, depending on the program and length.
While the kids are away, mom and dad can play. Whether it be wine tasting at the Academie du Vin or lounging at the cigar bar, there's something for mom and dad to do, exclusively.
Although winter isn't the time for it, Nemacolin houses two golf courses, a PGA Tour-tested course and a par-70 course. Partnering with Nike, the resort also offers the Nemacolin Woodlands Golf Academy, led by a PGA Master Professional. On the opposite side of the property is The Woodlands Spa, a peaceful, serene oasis. Fitness classes, gym, and wet areas are complimentay to spa patrons.
Nemacolin is a cut above the rest. Impeccable service, free shuttle buses, diversity of activities, amenities, and accommodations set the resort apart from any other. It's a small village all unto itself. It's also a secret piece of paradise nestled high into the mountains, the tip of which we've only scratched.
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