Ohio Treasures

I always get a little frustrated when I travel far beyond our Buckeye State borders and meet others who think Ohio is defined by corn fields and Ohio State Football. Yes, I am a big fan of both Ohio corn and “The Best Band In The Land,” but a recent experience beyond the confines of narrow thinking offered a reminder of the rich and varied treasures our state beholds.

For the most part, I have lived in southwest Ohio for the better part of my life and am quite familiar with all that resides in between the Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati expanse. Recently, however, my husband and I ventured out of our Ohio comfort zone to explore Licking County, home to Denison University and the City of Granville. After we explored the quaint city center and walked the grounds of great thinkers, we eventually made our way to an area known as Welsh Hills.  Just a few minutes off the beaten path lies a charming, family owned Bed and Breakfast, called Welsh Hills Inn. We set out for some breath and new perspective, and were gifted with so much more.

Known for its fertile ground and natural springs, Welsh Hills posed an opportunity to restore and relax following more than a few weeks of intense grandparent craziness. Immediately upon arrival to the Inn, we felt ourselves melt into an invitation to unwind. Our hosts were gracious. It had been a long time since we stayed at a B&B, and I forgot how charming and engaging such lodgings can be. The environment was intentional and comfortable framed by the beauty of the encasing land. Almost immediately, we began to answer the call to relax.  

Mornings felt dreamlike. As I sipped coffee on the veranda, the far away roosters crowed, welcoming the dawn of a new day. The lingering mist rested heavy across the distant hills signaling the morning’s reluctance to let go of dreams from the night slumber. The August locusts provided an orchestra of background hum while birds sang their morning salutations. Deer crossed the glistening fields with elegance while groundhogs meandered about with a bit of clumsiness. And just like that, the sun made a brilliant entrance to the day.

Ohio’s Welsh country called me to stillness and reflection but there was also the distant sound of an unseen car or two driving on the far-away road reminding me I still live in a modern world. Long walks pulled us further into the charm of this land. Pristinely kept barns told the story of hard work and pride in farming. Stumbling upon a roadside cemetery invited us into a family history of Welsh settlers by the name of Phillips. I wondered what drew them here to this place over 200 years ago. Ponds and butterflies and expansive oak trees created endless stories in my mind about all who lived and loved here.

Discovering Ohio by way of Bed and Breakfasts might just be our new vacation getaway paradigm. Our time in Welsh Hills reminded me the world can keep on turning without our constant connection. Do we really need to be so busy all the time? Welsh Hills gave me a resounding answer. No.

The treasures of Ohio are many calling us to delightful getaways. Next time I’m asked about Ohio from those who don’t know us, I’ll tell them to come experience the rich lands through the lens of B&B’s. All it takes is a moment of stillness and a cup of coffee; and Ohio will become unforgettable.