Lakeside State of Mind

A stay at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake comes with top-rated amenities, breathtaking views of Lake Erie, and the outstanding cuisine of Ohio's Wine Country

By Mike and Wendy Pramik
Photography courtesy of Kevin Kopanski

With breathtaking views of the lake, paved paths that lead to Geneva State Park, and indoor and outdoor hot tubs, it's easy to relax.

"Walking along the lake, listening to the waves lap against the shore and watching the sun set over the lake are the perfect formula for getting you into a 'lakeside state of mind,'" said Charlene Horgan, General Manager of The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake.

On the flip side, Lake Erie Canopy Tours give you the chance to zip through the sky, and the recently renovated pool area, which features outdoor games, encourages active adventure.

And while The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake is a destination in itself, there's no shortage of nearby wineries, restaurants and gorgeous scenery to explore within the Grand River Valley. Along the shores of Lake Erie, you'll find a boardwalk-style row of shops, arcades, eateries and beer joints. As you venture to nearby wineries, stop to see the bevy of covered bridges that dot the rolling Ashtabula County countryside.

The More the Merrier

With lots of outdoor space for gathering and multiple indoor meeting areas, The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake is a perfect destination for groups. Whether you're traveling with friends, family or planning a meeting, The Lodge is happy to accommodate.

Sweet Dreams

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers a variety of accommodations that are perfect for whatever you need, whether it's a wedding party, family, friends' or couples' retreat.

There are 109 lodge rooms and suites, ranging from double-queen rooms to king suites. The latter offers a separate bedroom with a king-sized bed, a comfy sitting room with a pullout sofa bed and a kitchenette. All rooms have complimentary Internet access and mini fridges. Book one of the rooms overlooking the lake and cozy up with a mug of coffee on your private balcony while watching the rays from the sunrise sparkle across the water.

If you're traveling with a larger group, rent one of the 25 lakeside cottages, where you can hang out on a private patio with family and friends. Each includes two bedrooms, a foldout sofa in the living room, a porch with rocking chairs, a gas fireplace and a kitchenette.

Above the Shore

One lodge attraction that soars above the rest is Lake Erie Canopy Tours, a ziplining course that takes you through the canopy of Geneva State Park and above the lake's shoreline.

This northeast Ohio aerial adventure offers three ways to get some exhilaration. First, there's the Zipline Canopy Tour, a guided trip above Geneva State Park at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. You'll be wowed by the views of the lake as you traverse sky bridges and then drift down from 60 feet up in the air. Race your traveling partner on the side-by-side double ziplines for some extra fun.

Test your limits on one of the two adventure courses, one for adults and one for kids. These self-guided adventures include a network of wood and rope obstacles with some three dozen elements from super easy to rather difficult.

Or float down Cowles Creek with kayak or swan pedal boat rentals. As you take in the natural beauty, you just might see a zipliner speed by above.

Breath of Fresh Air

The lodge is an opportune place to get back to nature, with trails on the property and in the neighboring Geneva State Park.

There are numerous areas around the property that are perfect for taking in the sights, such as Horizons Restaurant, an extra-large fire terrace, the lakeside gazebo, and indoor and outdoor pool decks. A two-mile, paved walking path runs along the lake and past the Geneva Marina, and winds through Geneva State Park. If you prefer to explore on two wheels, guests are welcome to borrow a bike for free at The Lodge.

The lodge is in the midst of renovating its outdoor pool area to include Erie Breeze, a large outdoor food-and-beverage pavilion. There's also an expanded, fenced-in poolside area, large masonry firepit, two shuffleboard courts, two bocce courts, a giant chessboard and a new hydraulic door that opens the indoor pool deck to the outdoor deck in warmer months.

Wine and Dine

Pair your getaway with a glass of wine when you book the Wine Excursion. The package includes a two-night accommodation, a wine shuttle on one day for two people to visit local wineries in Ohio's wine country, one wine tasting, a wine tasting flight in Horizons Restaurant for two and breakfast for two each morning.

The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake's Wine Shuttle takes you to three wineries over the course of several hours. Along the way, snap photos of the vineyards dotting the landscape. Wineries you might visit on the tour include: Debonne Vineyards, M Cellars, South River Vineyards, Kosicek Vineyards, Grand River Cellars, Laurentia Winery, Ferrante Winery, Hundley Cellars, Rosabella Winery, Stonegait Winery and Cask 307. Be sure to ask knowledgeable staff for recommendations on signature varietals grown right in the Grand River Valley, and don't forget to try the region's signature ice wine.

Whether you're just starting your day or returning after your adventures, the onsite restaurant beckons. Dining at Horizons Restaurant is a panoramic experience, whether for breakfast or dinner. The octagonal dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows that highlight the lake. There's also a patio that takes you even closer to the water. The menu boasts a variety of wines and entrees to please every palate.

If you venture into town, stop at the iconic Eddies Grille for a foot-long hot dog and fries, or Madsen Donuts, which has been frosting delicious treats since 1938.