Right now, we are in-need of a weekend escape to somewhere safe and secluded. Families have been heading outdoors as often as possible, and I have been jumping on the nature wagon more often myself. When I heard of Clover Bottom Bed and Breakfast – also an Airbnb – nestled in Kentucky’s countryside, I was inspired.
Given the option to book the place all to ourselves (all ages welcome, choose the “All Bedrooms” option on their website) or simply book one of their spacious rooms (ages 12 and older), I thought this would make a great opportunity to head out on a couple’s getaway before our new bundle of joy arrived (spoiler alert!). Luckily, we had babysitters available (aka Grandma and Grandpa); and off we went!
Pulling up to this country home, my jaw dropped to the ground – what I saw was this large, white country home sitting amongst a gorgeous 60-acre property surrounded by cattle and rolling hills. I’ve never been to a bed and breakfast, so this was going to be an all-new experience. We walked in to what was immediately a homey-feel: the smell of peppermint and spice, warmth, Christmas décor, an astonishing kitchen with a shared guest refrigerator, four guest rooms filled with love, freshly baked cookies and fluffy robes and slippers – I was in awe.
Immediately I plopped onto the fluffy bed and wow – I sunk right in and knew this is just what we needed; relaxation. We took a walk around owners Greg and Readith’s welcoming home and admired the decorated fireplace and long wooded banister. Walking outside, I gazed at a wide-open sky (perfect for a starry night) hot tub, pool and patio just calling our names.
When Greg and Readith came to great us, it was like I took a weekend trip to my grandparent’s house and they were ready to take care of us. Only open for a year now, I also learned of their artistic abilities. Readith makes her own creations such as lip balm, shampoos, body washes and more (which you’ll find waiting for you in your room); and an art gallery and studio, by Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen member, Gregory Lakes himself. They will gladly guide you to their hand-crafted artwork. When you come to stay, don’t leave without browsing an array of paintings, wire and wooden sculptures and more – filled with inspiration and hard work. You may just find the perfect gift for a loved one this holiday season! Browse their gallery here: originalartandsculpturebyglakes.com.
Beyond Clover Bottom
Knowing I had warm hot tub to soak my feet in later and a restful bed, it was time to explore a little around us. First, we discovered the nearby small town of Berea, where you will find a historical college, delicious eats (we recommend PapaLenos – the best garlic bread and spaghetti and meatballs, papalenos.com), a fudge shop filled with homemade chocolates fudge and ice cream, and more small local shops to browse. In addition, Berea is home to a variety of artists who specialize in a variety of mediums, including glass blowing, weaving, painting and more. You can watch them at work, take a hands-on workshop or shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. For more information and scheduling, visit visitberea.com/artists/cat/working-artists. Or, venture out on an art scavenger hunt where you’ll find 12, six-foot hand sculptures, each uniquely themed and located around the Artisan Village. Try to find them all on your own, or directions to all 12 can be found at the welcome center: 3 Artist Circle, Berea, Ky.
Nearby, less than 10 minutes to be exact, are the Pinnacles. You can see them from the town, and my nature instincts were ready to hit the trails. We climbed up to a picturesque overlook, catching a breathtaking view, recently ranked the best hike in Kentucky by Outside Magazine. The Pinnacles offer sweeping views of the valley and in the fall, you will get the best view of the colorful trees. (E Highway 21, Berea, Ky.) For reviews, photos and trail map visit alltrails.com/trail/us/kentucky/east-and-west-pinnacle.
Afterward, it was time to winddown in the hot tub (for an expecting mama, of course a hot tub isn’t safe, however, feel free to soak your feet a bit or turn down the temp to lukewarm).
Breakfast in Bed
We woke up to the smell of chocolate biscuits and gravy, quiche, cheesy hash, bacon and more – all homemade by Greg and Readith. They make breakfast to order (included with the price) and offer to bring it to your room or you can sit inside or outside on the patio if the weather allows. For us parents, this is pure heaven. Imagine quiet, breakfast comes to you, and all you need to worry about is where your robe and slippers are.
We didn’t waste the day. If you are interested in an ATV ride, ask Greg. ATV rides are quite popular in the area, so if you really want to get deep into the woods and discover more of the Berea’s beauty, I highly recommend. ATV enthusiasts can also ride directly from the Bed and Breakfast to the trails of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
After our ride, we wanted to catch more scenery and take advantage of the rare, warm and sunny fall weather. So, one last hike before we hit the road. We hit the trails leading to Anglin Falls – a little more off the beaten path and a 20-minute drive out of the way, but well worth it. This hike is perfect for the kids (a little up hill though, so be prepared for breaks) – it’s out and back and about 15 minutes from Berea and boasts a beautiful waterfall and rock formation at the turn around point – see keep going! For reviews and photos: alltrails.com/trail/us/kentucky/anglin-falls.
All-in-all, Clover Bed and Breakfast is a must if you’re looking to experience the quiet, serene countryside and still feel at home. Greg and Readith give you a warm welcome, and if you’ve never experienced a bed and breakfast before (like me!) they give you the perfect amount of space, making it feel like this is your temporary sanctuary, all while being present to accommodate your needs! And you never know, you might even develop some friendships along the way!
Find more information and book your room for a much-holiday holiday getaway at cloverbottombandb.com.