Valentine’s day is right around the corner and it’s always one of our favorite times to get away. After the busy holidays, it’s nice to take a day to just get away and reconnect together as a couple. It can be hard to get away for an extended period of time – which makes an overnight trip the perfect compromise. I’ve included 4 of our favorite places to relax and enjoy that are all within a 2 hour drive of Pittsburgh. Depending on which direction you want to go – North, South, East or West! Check them out:
1. Horizon View Farms (East)
A 600 acre farm with horses and views for days, Horizon View, a quick hour drive from Pittsburgh, makes you feel like you’re miles away from it all. Upon arriving, you are welcomed and made to feel right at home. The lodging is a renovated farm house with 2 suites on the first floor (each with queen beds, a private bath, and a sitting area). The upstairs apartment has 2 queen bedrooms, another bedroom with 2 twins, a full kitchen, and an upstairs family room with more area to sleep. The apartment is great for larger parties.
I love the attention to detail here – you arrive to a chilled bottle of wine and cheese and fruit plate awaiting you, s’more packages for the fire later, and an amazing homecooked full breakfast in the morning. The house is beautifully decorated and comfortable – but you may not want to spend much time inside when you see what’s outside. There are only rolling hills and horses surrounding the farm which make you truly feel like you have gotten away from it all. Sitting by the firepit is an ejoyable way to relax at the end of the day. The next morning, you will be treated to a hearty and delicious home cooked breakfast where you can relax on the back porch watching the horses.
TIP: The property is also close to the GAP trail, Ohiopyle, and 7 Springs. Be sure to check out our favorite local restaurant – Out of the Fire Cafe.
2. Buhl Mansion (North)
About 2 hours North of the city, you will find this gorgeous historic mansion with beautiful gardens, amazing artwork, and a relaxing spa. We stayed in the “Artist Loft” and it was gorgeous, comfortable and cozy. The rooms have real working fireplaces and this one included a large jacuzzi tub. You are cordially greeted upon arrival and welcomed with champagne. We had champagne and snacks in our room, as well as a pre-dinner reception downstairs. If you book to eat dinner at their sister property, Tara A Country Inn, they even provide a limo van to take you there in style.
You definitely will want to check out their spa services here and enjoy some relaxation time. We opted for breakfast in bed the next morning so we could relax before leaving for home. I loved hearing all about the history of the home and browsing the artwork. It was winter when we were there so we didn’t get a chance to enjoy a garden, but all the more reason to return!
TIP: If you love the Buhl Mansion, you may want to check out the Select Registry site for more amazing properties in North America! This is an exclusive list of outstanding properties at amazingly affordable properties when you factor in all that you are getting. We have stayed in several properties and have loved each one – while they were unique in their own way.
3. Getaway House Pittsburgh (West)
If you need a break from your busy life, grab your toothbrush and some clothes and GO. They provide the essentials and encourage you to get bored – go “Forest Bathing”, hiking, make some s’mores on the fire and just relax. My hubby and I did just that and spent alot of time CONNECTING (there’s also a cellphone lockbox to make sure you can do just that!!). If you love nature, peace and quiet, and being able to just PAUSE and connect with a bestie or significant other, you WILL love the Getaway House! There’s hiking trails nearby and a list of restaurants if you choose to venture out – but feel free to stay in with a bottle of wine, play some board games and snuggle.
TIP: You can always use my special code FIGANDROSES25 for $25 off a booking!! Read more on our trip here.
4. Nemacolin(South)
Nemacolin is not a small B&B by any means, but as a large resort it is equally relaxing and has some amazing offerings including a world class spa, restaurants, and more. I love how you can pull up, valet your car, and just relax – anywhere you need to go, you can hop on their shuttle.
About an hour or so from Pittsburgh, through the Laurel Highlands, you will find this gorgeous resort atop a very large mountain. If you’re driving in winter, you may want to bring an SUV or 4-wheel drive vehicle. We hit an unexpected snowstorm on one trip and it made for a harrowing drive. But, once you arrive the stress is gone. There’s a casino, ski slopes, museums, art tours, classes and more to keep you entertained with a lot being free. You can work with the concierge prior to your trip to book events and your spa treatments in advance so you can fully enjoy your time there. You will definitely want to spend the day in the spa if you’re having treatments – there’s a pool, sauna, steam room and lounge areas to enjoy. Order breakfast in bed, or eat at one of the many restaurants within the resort.
TIP: You can usually find an amazing weekday deal in winter because the resort is not that busy – which also makes it perfect for relaxing!
I hope you enjoyed my list of romantic places to getaway for a night or more! These are all an easy drive from Pittsburgh and could make a perfect Valentine’s surprise for your loved one! Escape and enjoy! 💋
xo,
J