Man did they hit the nail right on the head!
I just spent the last 4 days at First Fork Lodge and it could hardly have been better. A beautiful, comfortable B&B (it's an actual bed and breakfast) in a beautiful setting.
First: Sandy and Dave were So welcoming. They made a big breakfast every morning. They were great company when I wanted company, they left me room when I wanted some quiet, they had directions and suggestions, it was like staying with family (if you like your family, that is).
The house: a big, historic country home. CLEAN. Beautiful screened porch, super-comfortable sitting rooms, and the bedrooms are each themed -- it's a fun place. Mine (the Barn room) nailed the 3 c's of a good room: clean, comfortable and quiet.
The setting: surrounded by the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. Quiet. Walking trails and a stream right next to the property. Lots of wildlife. Half hour from Cherry Springs State Park -- it's a dark sky park (Google it, it's a national treasure, super family-friendly, and free. If it's not on your bucket list, stop what you're doing and write it down at once. I'll wait...) There's plenty of fishing nearby -- like, a 5-minute walk. (Which reminds me, they have fishing flies for sale, for every time of year and every local fish.) Good hunting all around too. Drive up to the top of the mountain (ask Dave, the directions are easy) and spend a few hours hearing nothing but the wind in the trees, birds and cicadas. There are small towns nearby for dinner, convenience stores, gas stations etc. There are other points of interest around but the park, the scenery and the quiet are plenty of reason to visit.
Great place for a few peaceful days, great place for a romantic getaway. Great place. I'll be back.
Bonus tip: the cell service in the area is not 100%, which is a great excuse for ignoring the phone and focusing on your relaxation. Bonus tip #2, ask Dave to bake apple turnovers.
1104 Costello Rd., Austin PA
814-647-8644
www.firstforklodgellc.com read more