My girlfriends and I are Chicago born city chicks, forever on a quest for the ultimate country getaway. Well, the search is over as we have recently discovered a wholesome countryside gem in Indiana’s Das Dutchman Essenhaus Inn and Conference Center. Located in the hospitable village of Middlebury, this idyllic inn is warmly surrounded by lush farmland, riverside parks, an old fashioned downtown corridor and the Midwest’s largest Amish Community. But even if you choose to never leave the picturesque property of this quaint resort, you are still guaranteed a fabulous time.
Our group opted to explore Indiana’s historic Amish country in the nearby town of Shipshewana, where shop lined streets are graced by the delightful clip clop of horse drawn buggies. But back at the Essenhaus Inn in Middlebury, an on-site homey village awaits you, offering everything from shopping and mini golf to carriage rides at dusk and authentic Amish cooking.
Speaking of Amish cooking, we never miss the opportunity to dine at Middlebury’s Essenhaus country kitchen. With seating for hundreds of guests, this exceptional eatery features an all you can eat, family style menu. We begin our hearty feast with tasty starters of salad, fresh baked bread and homemade apple butter. The main course boasts plentiful helpings of broasted chicken, beef and ham. Followed up with overflowing portions of stuffing, whipped potatoes, fresh vegetables and rich Amish made noodles. All meals include a scrumptious dessert choice such as: pudding, ice cream, apple dumplings or delicious fruit and cream pies.
We never leave the restaurant without visiting the in-house Essenhaus bakery for a goodie bag to take back to Chicago. We shop for treats like gooey cinnamon rolls, English muffin bread, handmade noodles, peanut butter and salad dressings. The Essenhaus also assembles wondrous gift baskets stuffed with treats like chocolates, apple butter, popcorn, cheese, sausage and jams. These delectable baskets make the perfect Amish inspired souvenir or a special gift for under $30.
For more souvenir shopping, we visit the property’s very own gift shops and boutiques which were originally farm buildings that still embrace an enchanting homespun charm. The Cabin sells timeless Christmas décor, while the Corn Crib specializes in women’s fashions. An aged multi-level farmhouse is now home to an expansive gift shop selling everything from candles and knick knacks to Amish dolls and wooden toys.
After we have filled our tummies and our trunks, we tour the majestic grounds on a horse drawn carriage that travels around sparkling ponds, colorful landscaping and a covered bridge. Next, we take advantage of the resort’s atrium which is home to comfy tables and chairs providing the ideal venue for scrapbooking, a card game or some late night microwave popcorn. The warm and welcoming atrium is also host to a pleasant continental breakfast.
We end our country retreat by relaxing in the Essenhaus Inn’s newly added guest rooms which are meticulously decorated in the most feminine touches. Lush floral linens and window coverings, cozy furnishings and antique accessories deliver a fantastically inviting atmosphere for less than $150 per night. To plan your next country getaway log onto www.essenhaus.com.
