Featuring a rural charm and a view of untouched nature that is becoming more and more rare all the time, the Swiss Woods Bed and Breakfast offers its guests relaxation on a completely different level. With a landscape fit for a painting as far as the eye can see, it’s no wonder so many come here to “get away from it all.” Add to that a view into Amish culture and a simpler time and you have a recipe for a vacation that will leave you refreshed, focused and with a new perspective on life.
The story of Swiss Woods begins in 1986 when innkeepers Werner and Debbie relocated from Switzerland with their three children with plans to build and open the inn. While Werner grew up in Switzerland, Debbie was raised in Lancaster County, where the couple decided to eventually relocate. Nearby Speedwell Forge Lake, on a family plot of land, the couple began the construction of the Swiss Woods Bed & Breakfast Inn.
Already possessing the knowledge needed to be successful, it wouldn’t take long for these innkeepers to see their vision come to life. Today Werner is known for his beautiful landscaping of the property and Debbie provides delicious breakfasts for her guests, among other various tasks, and people visit specifically for those things. In fact, cooking is one of Debbie’s many passions, even being part of a well-known cookbook, 8 Broads in the Kitchen, a cookbook that highlights some of the delicious recipes served at various BNBs. To this day, Werner and Debbie both use their knowledge of food, agriculture and farming to provide a memorable experience for their guests at their Lititz, PA inn.
In and Around Lititz and Lancaster
The area surrounding the Swiss Woods Inn is full of history and culture, with endless attractions to visit and enjoy. Whether your favorite things are historical sites, vineyards, markets, live entertainment, outdoor activities or trying new food and cocktails – there is always something exciting to do. Just take a look at some of your options and you’ll see that not only is the Swiss Woods Bed & Breakfast worth making the trip for, but the area has much to offer as well.
History
The Fulton Opera House – Victorian Era opera house that still operates today, dating back to 1852.
Demuth Home and Tobacco Shop – Home of early American painter Charles Demuth and America’s oldest operating tobacco shop, dating back to 1770.
Buchanan Home – Tour the home of the former president, particularly beautiful during the holiday season.
The Hans Herr House – The oldest dwelling place in Lancaster County, built in 1719.
The Ephrata Cloister – A German religious community dating back to 1732, with restored buildings to tour.
Gettysburg, PA – Historic Civil War Era town with reenactments and museums.
Wine
Nissley Vineyards – Featuring summer lawn concerts along the Susquehanna River.
Stargazers Vineyards – Offering tastings with a side of live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
Waltz Vineyards – Delicious wine, with a breathtaking view over Lancaster County.
Grandview Vineyard – Weekly events, including Wine by the Vine, Cigar Nights and Free Music Fridays.
Shopping
Horst Auction – Estate auctions held on Wednesdays, featuring antiques, rare items and real estate.
Renningers – The flea market of all flea markets, with special antique sales throughout the year.
Lancaster’s Central Market – One of the oldest farmer’s markets in the U.S., open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.
See
Longwood Gardens – Tour the DuPont family botanical gardens after a short drive through Amish country.
Hershey, PA – Historic town where you can tour a real chocolate factory.
Rainbow Dinner Theater – Comedy dinner theater shows with matinees.
Sight and Sound Millenium Theater – Broadway style shows set in a state-of-the-art theater.
Nature
Hershey Gardens – Featuring a butterfly atrium and beautiful gardens, including roses during their season.
The PA Wolf Sanctuary – A place to see these beautiful animals that also offers full moon tours.
Ziplining – A truly unique way to see the area from high above the trees.
Dining
Scooters – Casual dining with multiple TVs for sporting events, only 10 minutes from the inn.
St. Boniface Brewing Company – Serving craft beers and light fare, including a wild mushroom pizza.
Tomato Pie Café – Known for their Tomato Pie and Crème Brule Latte, as well as delicious baked goods.
Foundry Craft Grillery – Featuring steaks grilled over a wood fire and other delicious entrees.
La Trattoria Fratelli – Authentic Italian with pizza and a Tuesday special for dinner for two.
The General Sutter Inn – Top notch dining with tasty English style pub food.
Listed are just a few of the exciting things you can spend your time doing when staying in Lancaster.
