Glenlaurel Inn & Cottages: Romantic and Luxurious Accommodations in Hocking Hills

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the popular Hocking Hills region of Ohio, look no further than Glenlaurel Inn.

A visit to Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn & Cottages is like visiting the Scottish Highlands.

This private, adults-only retreat is located on 140 beautiful wooded acres.

You’ll find stunning waterfalls, rock cliffs and gorge trails that are only available to guests at Glenlaurel.

If you’ve been on the state park trails in the area like Old Man’s Cave or Conkle’s Hollow on a weekend, than you know this Scottish retreat truly offers the perfect setting for those seeking the peace and quiet of the outdoors in a gorgeous and luxurious setting.

With comfortable accommodations and full dining onsite, I don’t see any reason to leave once you’ve checked in. But if you’re inclined, you’ll find additional hiking in the Hocking Hills State Parks, zip lining and horseback riding and shopping options nearby.

Check out my article on things to do in Hocking Hills for more ideas.

About Glenlaurel

Glenlaurel Inn & Cottages is a Scottish-inspired resort and member of Select Registry found in the beautiful Hocking Hills.

This peaceful sanctuary offers access to the great outdoors and luxurious amenities that include gourmet breakfasts and delicious six and seven course meals in the cozy dining room at the Manor House.

While Glenlaurel is certainly a romantic destination, you don’t have to be part of a couple to book a stay.

I personally think the tranquil and peaceful surroundings offer the perfect spot for a busy mom or dad to getaway and enjoy a break.

Where is Glenlaurel Located?

Glenlaurel is located less than an hour southeast of Columbus, 2+ hours from Cincinnati and over 3 from Cleveland.

The closest international airports are the John Glenn Columbus International Airport and Rickenbacker International Airport, also in the state’s Capital. You’ll find the Fairfield County Airport nearby as well.

Amenities at Glenlaurel

Glenlaurel is a premier romantic destination in Ohio and one I would certainly recommend if you’re looking for a private resort that offers peace and seclusion.

Limited Wi-fi is complimentary and allows you to be connected only if you want to be.

You’ll also find a Tesla charging station for EV’s near the carriage house.

Perfect for weddings (yes, intimate weddings are held on the grounds), when celebrating an anniversary, or just a way to reconnect with the one you love.

In addition to the amazing meals and beautiful hiking trails, Glenlaurel also offers and a Scottish Links golf course, two bonfire areas, and yard games like Croquet and Bocce Ball.

A variety of events are offered throughout the year that include a Poe Dinner Event, Dickens Dinner Event, St. Patrick’s Day Dinner, and more.

View the event calendar so you don’t miss a thing. .

Romantic add-ons like flowers, champagne and chocolate covered strawberries are also available if ordered in advance.

Accommodation Options at Glenlaurel

This Scottish country inn provides comfortable accommodations in the Manor House, Carriage House, Crofts & Cottages.

My husband and I have now stayed in a croft and two of the cottages.

We loved all of them but my personal favorite, so far, is the MacKay Cottage. My husband’s favorite is the Wallace Cottage.

I think we need to stay in each again to determine a true winner. What do you think?

But seriously, you won’t go wrong with any off the accommodations offered at Glenlaurel.

From cozy cottages to luxurious suites, you’ll find plenty of old-world elegance and tastefully decorated rooms for overnight guests.

You’ll find photos and information about each of them below.

Glenlaurel East Croft Accommodations

Our first stay was in the MacDougal croft, named after a prominent Scottish clan.

This croft is reached via a short gravel drive through the trees from the Manor House.

I fell in love with the accommodations before I even stepped foot inside the door. The croft was nestled near the edge of a wooded gorge.

Two walking sticks were propped along the wall near the entrance, just one of the special touches that allude to the thoughtfulness of the Inn Keeper.

The croft, decorated with touches of Scotland in features a small kitchenette, queen bed with a romantic see-through fireplace between the living room and bedroom and a large two- person shower.

The croft has central heating and cooling so you can adjust to your comfort level.

The bed is piled with pillows and plush blankets, with extras available if needed. It was quite cozy.

The kitchen is equipped with a microwave and refrigerator so you can bring your own snacks if desired.

There is also TV and DVD players in the room, and a selection of free movies available in Guest Services to check out.

You can kick back and watch a movie like Braveheart to transport you to Scotland or something like The Lake House (my favorite) or How to Lose a Guy in 10 days.

If you forget to pick up a movie earlier in the day, you’ll find a small selection available in the foyer leading to the office to check out after hours.

The kitchenette and living area combo in the MacDougal open to a screened porch and private hot tub overlooking the thick trees and Camusfearna Gorge to the back of the croft.

The battery-operated lantern that hung by the door and walking sticks propped against the outside wall of the croft, an invitation to leisurely explore the grounds.

Plush robes waited in the bathroom for our use, and a snack of Hershey’s kisses and Scottish shortbread cookies welcomed us on the table.

It’s important to note for those with mobility challenges, the MacDougal East Croft at Glenlaurel is completely wheelchair accessible as well.

You’ll find many of the amenities available in the crofts also available in the cottages.

The Cottages at Glenlaurel

As I mentioned previously, my husband and I have stayed in both the Wallace and MacKay Cottage. You truly can’t be disappointed with either lodging option.

Both cottages are located a short walk or drive past the crofts at the edge of the ravine. Each of the six cottages are decorated to honor prominent people in Scottish history.

The Wallace Cottage is honors the famous Scottish knight and warrior, William Wallace who rallied the Scots and lead them in the resistance against England.

A replica of his sword is carved into the mantle of the stone fireplace.

The MacKay (pronounced MacKI) Cottage gives a nod to the Scottish clan known for introducing the game of golf to the country of Scotland.

You’ll find a selection of books on the topic by the fireplace with a custom mantle with golfers carved into the wood. An image of St. Andrews Clubhouse hangs over the mantle which is the location of the golf shop the MacKay’s have operated for generations in the village in Scotland.

The cottages are heated or cooled to the perfect temperature for your arrival with the sound of traditional Celtic music filling the air to transport you to another land.

The large windows in the living area let in plenty of natural light and open to views of the natural setting where deer, squirrels and rabbits frolick.

The chair beside the window is the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee.

French doors in the bedroom open to the private deck with a hot tub.

The cottages are steps away from a trail leading down into the ravine.

Social Hour at the Scottish Pub

Social hour is held each evening prior to dinner at the cozy on-site pub.

Guests gather for the social events to chat over complimentary cheese boards and soft drinks or enjoy a beverage of their choice available for purchase at the bar.

Dinner at Glenlaurel Manor House

The six-course dinner served nightly in the Manor House is something to be remembered! My husband and I have never been disappointed by a meal at Glenlaurel.

Dinner is announce and begins with a poetry reading. If you’re in one of the dining rooms your poetry reading will be read to the group.

If you’re at the House Table, you’ll receive a private poetry reading. I love this part.

My husband, not so much.

On occasion, you may dine to bagpipe music.

A place card with menu is located on your private table so you can see what will be served at each course.

Chef Tyler prepares meals that are appealing to both the eyes and palate.

Each time we’ve visited the property, my husband and I have find ourselves anticipating each new course.

Incredible food. Served by candlelight. It’s hard to go wrong with that scenario. 

The chef stops by the table at the end of each meal to say hello so you can meet him and ask any questions that you have.

If you prefer not to dine in the Manor House, you may request a romantic in-room dinner be delivered to your croft or cottage and enjoy a romantic-in room dinner.

Glenlaurel does welcome dinner guests who are not staying on property, based on availability. If you’re staying in the area, call ahead to see if they can accommodate you.

Each time we’ve visited the property, my husband and I have find ourselves anticipating each new course.

Incredible food. Served by candlelight. It’s hard to go wrong with that scenario. 

The chef stops by the table at the end of each meal to say hello so you can meet him and ask any questions that you have.

If you prefer not to dine in the Manor House, you may request a romantic in-room dinner be delivered to your croft or cottage and enjoy a romantic-in room dinner.

Glenlaurel does welcome dinner guests who are not staying on property, based on availability. If you’re staying in the area, call ahead to see if they can accommodate you.

Breakfast at Glenlaurel

Gourmet three-course breakfasts are served in the Manor House.

Upon check in, you can select which time is best for you.

Our three-course morning meals have consisted of scones, porridge, and an egg & cheese spinach frittata with bacon and orange juice, as well as traditional Eggs Benedict and hot tea.

The service is always exceptional and I leave feeling pampered.

Each course is served separately, so I would plan to spend about as much time as you would in a local restaurant.

I know it’s supposed to be a relaxing, leisurely breakfast, but my husband is always eager to explore the grounds since we’ve only ever stayed for one night.

Exploring the Grounds at Glenlaurel

As mentioned previously, you’ll find private hiking trails at Glenlaurel. You’ll find different access points to the gorge so make sure to view the map inside your information guide in your room.

There is access behind the Manor House and access at the cottages as well.

Look for the signs for the Camusfearna Gorge Trail which winds past the main house and descends into the gorge. It would be a good idea to take along the hiking sticks at your croft or cottage because the path down and back up is steep.

Request a gourmet lunch and make a day of it along the private trails. The Hocking Hills region is my favorite place to hike in Ohio and the Camusfearna Gorge trail is no exception.

The path offers stunning views without the crowds.

My husband and I were alone to enjoy the trail, and if we weren’t, it sure felt like we were.

What to Know before Visiting Glenlaurel

I absolutely loved my stay with my husband and the only complaint I have is that our time there wasn’t nearly long enought. To truly relax and experience all this resort in the heart of Hocking Hills offers, you do need to book more than one day.

I’m already looking forward to another visit to this perfect romantic getaway destination in Ohio.

Here are a few tips to ensure that your overnight stay is every bit as fantastic as ours was.

1. The busy time for Glenlaurel is September to January. If you plan to visit, make sure to book your reservations far in advance.
   
2. There is a dress code for the gourmet dinner. Please read the guidelines before you arrive to ensure you pack appropriately. No jeans are permitted and men must wear a collared shirt.
   
3. Glenlaurel is luxurious but very comfortable. My husband dressed in khaki pants and a collared shirt, while I’ve opted to wear a nice blouse and cardigan with dress pants or a dress.
   
4. We met guests who have stayed at Glenlaurel on several occasions. Keep in mind that once you visit, you will probably want to visit again. And again. I know I do. My husband and I heard of one couple that has visited over 300 times in fifteen years!
   
5. The six-course meal (seven on Saturday) is an add-on. You are not required to eat in the Manor House. If you prefer a bit more alone time, you can bring a prepared meal from home or have one delivered to your room which you can eat by the fireplace, or on the screened porch.
   
6. If you aren’t familiar with which fork to use when during dinner, just remember to use the utensils furthest from your plate and work your way in and you’ll be fine. If you see a tiny spoon, it’s for the sorbet.
   
7. The complimentary breakfast is included but if you’d rather save time, you can order breakfast to be delivered to your room, croft, or cottage for a small delivery fee. That is the one thing I wish I’d done differently during our stay.
   
8. If you plan to hike, bug spray is a must, as are good walking shoes and water. Don’t forget your walking stick, they are provided for a reason.
   
9. If you have young children and plan to have a babysitter, make sure they have the number for the Inn, in case of an emergency. Rooms, crofts, and cottages also have in-room phones so you can call out on a landline if you lose cell service (My husband and I have Verizon service and we were able to make and receive calls).
   
10. Plan to stay a minimum of two nights. While one night is amazing and definitely do-able if that’s the only time you have to get away or all your budget allows, you will be hard pressed to fully enjoy the grounds and all that is offered.
    
11. Join the Anniversary Club and receive special rates and incentives for those who visit annually.
    
12. You may find special deals and offers at various times of the year. Check out the vacation packages that are offered for more information.

Plan your Stay at Glenlaurel: A Scottish Inn & Cottages

Address: 14940 Mt. Olive Road Rockbridge, Ohio 43149-9736
Phone: 740-385-4070 or toll-free 800-809-REST (7378)
Email: info@glenlaurel.com | Visit the Website
Social Media: Glenlaurel on Facebook, Glenlaurel on Instagram

Thank you to Glenlaurel for hosting my stay. All opinions are mine.