Fallingwater

Over the Labor Day weekend, my daughter, Sasha, and I explored the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania. This journey took us through the lush Allegheny Mountains, around windy steep roads and up to breathtaking views. On our trip we visited the spectacular Fallingwater, the historic Summit Inn and the expansive Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

During our visit we stayed at the Bed and Breakfast at Whimsey's Knoll. Located in Hopwood, Pa., this charming inn is in a perfect location for visiting Frank Lloyd Wright's jewel, Fallingwater. The Victorian Room awaited us with its private porch surrounded by the forest's towering trees. The room boasts a queen sized bed with lovely antique lace bedspread and a claw foot tub. We enjoyed our time in the welcoming hot tub located on one side of the wrap around porch that envelops the front of the home.

Food is definitely the centerpiece of Whimsey's Knoll. Each breakfast, we were treated to the culinary expertise of a professional chef. Our host, Chuck, is the chef at the resort Nemacolin. His specialty is the Banana Foster Whimsey Cake, a unique dish that he flames up, right in front of you. Another day he made his delicious strawberry crepes. Every breakfast was followed by a dessert. One day it was smooth cheesecake served on a spoon and the next day it was delectable mini iced cream puffs. Delish! Our hostess, Chrissie, offered home baked brownies each afternoon.

In the evening we drove to the historic Summit Inn. This mountaintop gem, built in 1907, was once visited by Henry Ford and several of our past presidents. It was fun to view the memorabilia of another time and eat in the charming dining room. The food was amazing and we enjoyed the Summit Inn salad, with goat cheese, cranberries and nuts, and a creamy fettucine. Guests can also dine on the porch overlooking the Laurel Highlands at sunset.

About 30 minutes away, Fallingwater is an enchanting destination where you can spend the afternoon. The home was built in the 1930s for the Kauffman family. This family owned the Kauffman department store in Pittsburgh and they were looking for a weekend getaway. Their son studied with Frank Lloyd Wright and the family became friends with the famous architect. They purchased the land and intended to have the home face the waterfall. Wright had other ideas and decided to incorporate the waterfall into the home. Therefore, you can see the waterfall through a hatch in the living room and from many of the verandas and the water assists in the cooling of the home. The cantilevered floors seem to float over the waterfall. There are one and two hour tours of Fallingwater and they are very informative. Albert Einstein was a frequent guest of the Kauffmans and he would have had his own private pool outside of the guest quarters. Wright also built the nearby Kentuck Knob. I recommend the film, the Fountainhead, starring Patricia Neal and Gary Cooper, for an excellent depiction of the Frank Lloyd Wright saga. The book was written by Ayn Rand and is an absorbing read.

We also visited Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. This beautiful expanse of land includes a zoo, complete with lions, bears and mountain goats in a natural habitat, a mini golf course with waterfalls, golf courses, archery games and fine dining restaurants. The price is quite high to stay here, but you can still enjoy the grounds and the restaurants without being a guest.

Nearby is the cozy town of Ohiopyle where many whitewater rafting trips originate. When we arrived there was a free concert and craft show and many people were wading into the rapids. It is a perfect location for a picnic lunch.

As you can see, this area is brimming with activities. It would be best to make this a two day getaway as it takes three and one half hours to reach this destination. It is well worth the effort because you will be rewarded with good food, lovely views and a taste of history.