The History of Donna's Premier Lodging
February 25, 2024

In March of 2015 we posted a history of our popular Ohio inn known for romance. It was a true love letter from Donna Marie Golden to the business she has built from the ground up. Today, Donna Marie continues to welcome couples looking for an Amish Country getaway. She has also added new and exciting amenities for guests and advances to business procedures. Nine years later we are celebrating our history with a reprint of the original post along with expanded and edited information about the growth since 2015. Join us on a walk down memory lane.


We often times get guests wondering how Donna’s Premier Lodging started. I sat down with Donna Marie this week and got the scoop…


In 1988, Donna Marie Golden bought an Amish home that would later become Donna’s Premier Lodging. Her initial intentions were to renovate the house into a rental property (duplex). In the middle of renovations she decided to turn the lower section into a Bed and Breakfast room called the Country Heart Room and in May of 1991 Donna’s Country Bed and Breakfast opened for business.


It did not take long for Donna Marie to realize her passion and renovated the upstairs into three additional Bed and Breakfast rooms; Country Bear, Peaches and Cream and the Dainty Heart Room.

It was during this time that Donna Marie interacted with many honeymoon and anniversary couples and decided that her next venture would be a romantic bed and breakfast type accommodation perfect for a couple’s getaway… complete with an in-room Jacuzzi and a gas log fireplace. When Donna Marie bought the Amish home back in ‘88 the property also came with a barn. Through Donna Marie’s vision this barn became what is now Cottage #1. With the popularity of Cottage #1, Donna Marie soon followed up with construction of Cottage #2.


In 1995 a property south of town with 6 wooded acres and a small cabin came available for purchase. Donna Marie jumped on the opportunity and renovated the cabin with a Jacuzzi and fireplace and aptly named this cabin the “Original Log Cabin.” Not long after, in 1996 Chalet #1 and #2 were built.


After purchasing a neighbor’s house beside the Cottages, more renovations began and the Bridal Suites came into fruition in early 1998. Below their house was a large garden which soon became the location of the three Villas in late ‘98.


In March 2001 construction on the Cedar Cabins began and were available for rent by July 2001. With the completion of the Cedar Cabins, Donna Marie saw the need for a larger office space and renovated the Bed and Breakfast rooms into what is now our commercial kitchen, office and lobby and Donna’s Country Bed and Breakfast became Donna’s Premier Lodging.


As of the writing of this post, the last renovation was in 2004. We converted the Country Heart Room (located in the main building) into what is now called the Sauna Suite. This renovation included more square footage allowing for the addition of a two-person Jacuzzi, a steam sauna, and a fireplace. The Country Heart Room was the original Bed & Breakfast room and it was lovingly updated to welcome even more couples in the years to come.

A 10’ x 10’ pavilion was completed on the main grounds in 2015. The pavilion boasts Azek hardwood flooring, a double roof, and lighting. It is a popular location for couples planning intimate weddings and elopements at the inn. The pavilion is near the garden waterfalls which makes a lovely backdrop for wedding photos

Gazebo

Today, Donna’s Premier Lodging boasts 17 accommodations for couples. The rooms exude romance with relaxing in-room Jacuzzis; some are oblong and some are playfully heart shaped. The romance continues with a gas log fireplace in every accommodation at the inn. Grab a glass of wine and snuggle up together after a day of exploring. 

Before


After

1, 2, 3, 4 Office-Main Building and also where the Sauna Suite is located

5 Cottage#1 

6 & 11 Cedar Log Cabins

7 Photo of Cottage #1 and the back of the office building.

8 Suite #1 and Suite #2 building

9 Original Log Cabin 

10 Looking from the Office to the back of Suite's 

Over the years, Donna’s Premier Lodging has sweetened the package and add-ons list to include:


  • Appetizer platters or a handpicked snack basket
  • A hot breakfast delivered to your door
  • Chocolate-covered strawberries 
  • Hand-dipped chocolates
  • Peanut butter cookies
  • Birthday cupcakes
  • A dozen red roses or a fresh flower arrangement
  • Silk rose petals
  • Candles
  • Champagne
  • Bubble bath 
  • In-room massages
  • Year-round and seasonal packages


Technology has really changed the ways that Donna Marie and her staff can provide personalized service to guests. When the bed and breakfast began in 1991, there was no website. Instead there were mountains of brochures, confirmation letters, maps, and other paperwork. The website, email, texting, and social media has opened doors for convenient and efficient communication with guests. These days, guests can receive a text as soon as their room is ready so they can check in when it works best in their sightseeing schedule. Technology has also allowed staff to enjoy more family time as some operations can be handled remotely. Some guests have been coming for years and they remember the “good ole days” before all of the technological improvements but all of them appreciate the time that has been freed up to provide more one-on-one attention. 


Donna Marie has been operating Donna’s Premier Lodging for 33 years and she still loves greeting guests who have become friends and working with employees who are more like families than staff. When she was 28 and a new owner, she had unending energy. Now she works smarter, not harder, and shares her joy with her family, especially her two grandbabies. 

A Romantic Thanksgiving Getaway in Berlin, Ohio and Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • October 28, 2024
Imagine escaping the hustle and bustle of city life this Thanksgiving and retreating to the serene, picturesque landscape of Ohio's Amish Country. Nestled in the heart of this enchanting region lies Berlin, a charming town that offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic holiday getaway. This Thanksgiving, trade in the traditional for the extraordinary as you and your loved one embark on a unique adventure filled with rustic charm, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.

“Fall” in Love in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • October 11, 2024
Autumn is a time that many people seek out the changing fall colors in Ohio Amish Country. Imagine the photographs of covered bridges and Amish barns against the backdrop of stunning fall foliage. People often ask how to know the best time to schedule a trip to Berlin, Ohio for the fall colors. There are a couple helpful tools to assist with your planning: The Explore Fall Foliage Map has a handy sliding scale so you can see the predicted color for different parts of Ohio on specific days. The scale starts at “Little to No Color” and extends to “Past Peak Color.” According to this map’s estimates, “Peak Color” in Berlin will start around October 20 and end around October 30. The Farmer’s Almanac has a helpful animated map showing the predicted progression of the colors across the United States. The page also lists their choices for the top 21 places to see the fall foliage. Cuyahoga Valley National Park made the list and it is only about an hour north of Donna’s Premier Lodging. The entire drive will be filled with amazing views around every corner. Added bonus, if you need a short respite from your work day, take a few soothing minutes to just watch the colors spread across the map on the website.

Five Best Reasons to Visit Amish Country During the Week

By ALICIA DEMO • September 10, 2024
Many people take long weekends when they want a quick getaway. Have you ever considered taking a long “weekend” in the middle of the week? A midweek Ohio Amish Country getaway can be the perfect vacation. Arrive at Donna’s Premier Lodging on a Monday. Spend Tuesday and Wednesday exploring the sites. Head home on a Thursday before the crowds arrive. Of course, that is just a rough suggested itinerary. You can plan your trip however it works best for you. Here are five reasons you should plan your midweek getaway now.
Amish-Style Mashed Potatoes .

Favorite Amish Cooking Recipes

By ALICIA DEMO • August 8, 2024
One of the best reasons to visit Ohio’s Amish Country is the food. The Amish are known for hearty, delicious, family-style meals. At weddings they often dine on fried chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, salad, cake or cupcakes, fruit, and ice cream. With just a few recipes, you can enjoy Amish cooking in your own home. Here are a few to get you started. Donna’s Premier Lodging includes an authentic recipe every month in their newsletter. Sign up here to add to your list of Amish cooking recipes.  When you stay at Donna’s Premier Lodging, you are treated to a hot Amish-inspired breakfast every morning. Recreating these recipes together at home is a great way to remember all the fun you had on your Ohio Amish Country getaway.
Five Romantic Activities in Ohio Amish Country

Five Romantic Activities in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • June 10, 2024
Ohio’s Amish Country offers many romantic date ideas. The area is associated with a slower way of life. Most of the Amish community does not use electricity or travel via automobile. Instead, they focus on family, community, and the joy of a quiet life. Exploring that lifestyle allows for gentle moments together as you sip coffee or wine, look at the stars, or travel in a buggy or wagon. If you are looking for a romantic getaway filled with opportunities to connect with your loved one, come to Ohio Amish Country and try some of these activities.
Top Nature Activities in Ohio Amish Country

Top Nature Activities in Ohio Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • April 22, 2024
When people picture Ohio’s Amish Country, they see Amish markets and buggies and bucolic barns. Those are truly iconic features of the area. However, when some people go on vacation, they want to squeeze as many unique activities as possible into their getaway. They want history, culture, food, theater, shopping, and fun exercise. That last desire is why we recommend some spectacular activities that will bring you closer to nature. Rails to Trails can be accessed in Millersburg, OH approximately 10 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. 23 miles of paved trails run through Holmes County as part of the Great American Trail Rail. The Great American Trail Rail is 3,700 miles of trails connecting Washington state with Washington D.C. The trail is used by hikers, bikers, and walkers. An adjoining lane is used by horse and buggies. The 15-mile Fredericksburg to Killbuck part of the trail runs directly through Millersburg. Guests can access the trail at the historic Hipp Station train depot. The Hipp Station is the headquarters and visitor center for the Holmes County portion of the trail. The visitor center features wildlife displays, trail information, restrooms, and a covered picnic area. Scenery along the route includes scenic swamplands where visitors may spot turtles, snakes, and birds. The trail also uses old railroad bridges to cross over streams. Guests who want more mileage can travel to the Glenmont to Brinkhaven section of the trail. At this time, the 7.5-mile section is not linked directly to the Fredericksburg to Killbuck section. Beach City Wildlife Area is approximately 20 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. The highlight of the 393-acre state wildlife area is Dundee Falls. The 15-foot falls can be enjoyed year-round. Do not forget to look down into the rocky gorge below the falls. This stunning view can be missed if hikers focus only on the streaming water. The trail to access the falls is approximately one mile. The trail is an easy hike but can be slippery if it has recently rained. Bring your camera so you can take sweet selfies together by the waterfall.  The Wilderness Center is approximately 20 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. There are lots of trails to hike. Most are a mile or less so you can combine multiple trails to see a large portion of the Wilderness Center. The Wildlife Observation Room boasts a wall of windows overlooking multiple feeders and a water feature. Visitors are almost guaranteed to spot birds at the feeders but other animals occasionally visit the area. Want a guaranteed animal spotting? Visit with the rescued animal ambassadors including a couple turtles. Visit on the first Friday of each month when the Astronomy Club sets up multiple telescopes. The digital planetarium will aid in your enjoyment of the vast evening sky. For those looking for a romantic picnic there are lots of picnic areas. Create your own picnic or request a snack basket from Donna’s Premier Lodging. Up for a little friendly competition? There are scavenger hunts that you can complete both inside the Interpretative Building and outside on the trails. Be sure to check the events calendar for upcoming activities during your Ohio Amish County getaway. Recent events include a chance to sip local beer while learning about plants, a group of knitting/crocheting enthusiasts who met in the Wildlife Observation Room to work on their individual projects, and a 5K or 10K run along the trails. If you are traveling with children, the Nature Playscape is a playground built with natural materials. It is the perfect spot for kids to strengthen their imagination. The TWC Interpretative Building is open Tuesday through Saturday. The trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. Mohican State Park is approximately 30 minutes from Donna’s Premier Lodging. The park boasts three distinct fishing areas where anglers can find the favorite catch. Clear Fork River is stocked with brown trout. Smallmouth bass frequent Wolf Creek. All the other streams in the area are home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and white crappie. Several hiking trails are available for all abilities. Get striking views of the lake along the easy 0.75-mile Pleasant Hill Trail. Take photos at two waterfalls along the moderate 2-mile Lyons Fall Trail. Reward yourself with a covered bridge at the end of the difficult 2-mile Hemlock Gorge Trail. National Geographic Explorer Magazine has designated the 25-mile Mohican Mountain Bike Trail as a “must ride” trail. This is another great place for a picnic at one of the park’s six picnic areas. The Mohican River is a popular spot for water activities such as tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. Several equestrian trails meander through the park.
The History of Donna's Premier Lodging

The History of Donna's Premier Lodging

By Digital Support Team Web • February 25, 2024
We often times get guests wondering how Donna's Premier Lodging started. I sat down with Donna Marie this week and got the scoop...

Three Ways to Celebrate Your Valentine at Donna’s Premier Lodging

By ALICIA DEMO • January 17, 2024
Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday in 2024. That means you have two weekends plus an entire set of weekdays to arrange for fun and romantic activities. Berlin and Ohio’s Amish Country is a quaint place to revel in the love you have for each other. Add one or all these activities to your romantic getaway for a memorable time with the person who means the most to you. 1. Have a friendly competition to see who can be the thriftiest. Ohio’s Amish Country is a hub for thrift stores. Go out in search of a gift for each other using your own set of rules. Maybe you must find a gift that matches your partner’s favorite color. Maybe you have a set dollar amount you can spend. Maybe you find the funniest or sexiest or cutest gift and see who wins. Try any of these nearby stores. · Berlin Village Antique Mall – Since there are two floors here, you can split up and each search on a separate floor. · Carlisle Antiques & More – Look for the big buffalo to know you have found the right spot. · Trading Post Thrift Store – This store depends on donations and volunteers. Your purchases will go to a good cause because all proceeds benefit the Ohio Wilderness Boys Camp. · Save & Serve Thrift Shop – This shop is affiliated with the Mennonite Central Committee and strives to fund community initiatives. · Starlight Antiques and Gifts – Note that this location is currently operating on winter hours and is open Friday – Sunday until April 1. 2. Participate in a local special event. There is always something fun to do in Berlin and the surrounding area. This list is just a sample of the events you can find on the shoulder weekends and week of Valentine’s Day. · Ernie Haase and Signature Sound Valentine’s Show – The multi-Grammy nominated group performs songs of love from throughout the decades. They are known for their intricate harmonies and unique arrangements. They are performing at The Ohio Star Theater on February 9 and 10. · Diamonds Are a Crook’s Best Friend Mystery Dinner – Get dressed up in your fanciest attire and see if you can solve the mystery before the answer is revealed. A three-course dinner is included with your ticket to the show. Head to the Amish Door Village on February 10 for this fun evening. · Berlin’s Sweet On You – Berlin loves Valentine’s Day and the town celebrates with sales and special deals all week long. The fun-filled event lasts from Tuesday, February 13 until Sunday February 18 allowing for multiple days to find the perfect spot in your celebration schedule. · Free Live Music at Sunny Slope Winery – Sip local wines while you listen to live music every Friday and Saturday night at the winery. Be sure to try their Strawberry Wine. It is released only three times a year, one of those times being Valentine’s Day. · Valentine’s Spectacular – Ready to tickle your funny bone? The annual comedy show is a driven by choices from the audience. The two-hour performance is on Valentine’s Day, February 14, at The Amish Country Theater. · Custom Snow Globe – Be creative together when you make your own snow globe tumbler. This imaginative event will be held at Sunny Slope Winery on February 15. · Only Yesterday: Carpenter’s Tribute – The iconic duo is brought back to life with the vocals of Haley Gaglione and the keyboarding and vocals of Danny Bunnelle. The show is being performed at The Amish Country Theater on February 16. 3. Book a room at Donna’s Premier Lodging. Our rooms exude passion with a plethora of romantic amenities and special add-ons. · Choose between two guest room locations. There are secluded cabins in the woods for the couple who wants to get away from it all. There are also suites, cottages, and villas in town for the couple who prefers the convenience of walking to downtown. · All rooms boast a jacuzzi for two and a remote-controlled gas log fireplace. Soak your cares away after a day of sightseeing or curl up with a glass of wine by the crackling fire. · You will have everything you need for a cozy night in with the Date Night In Package. We take care of all the details including DVDs, board games, popcorn and snacks, and a chilled bottle of white wine. · Step into a lover’s paradise when you add a dozen roses, candles, champagne, bubble bath, or chocolate covered strawberries to your reservation. You can build your perfect evening with our Add-Ons options .

Valentine’s Day in Berlin

By ALICIA DEMO • December 28, 2023
Let us set a Valentine’s Day scene. You and your favorite person in the world are in Berlin, Ohio. You have spent the last hour soaking in a heart-shaped jacuzzi for two. Now you are snuggled under a blanket together beside a gas log fireplace while you listen to the soothing sounds of an indoor waterfall. You are sipping on wine from a bottle that you purchased earlier in the day at a nearby winery and nibbling on chocolate-covered strawberries. The next morning, you stay in your pajamas as you enjoy a full breakfast that has been delivered right to your door. This may sound to good to be true but it can be reality with a stay in the secluded Romancing the Stone cabin at our inn. All of our cabins, chalets, cottages, and suites boast jacuzzis for two, fireplaces, and special add on options. In addition to chocolate-covered strawberries and breakfast in bed, we can offer appetizer platters, a cake for two, a dozen red roses, in-room massages, and more. Take the stress out of Valentine’s Day and focus on what really matters – the person you are with. At Donna’s Premier Lodging you do not even have to make the bed. Just sit back and enjoy your time. You never have to leave the inn if you want a quiet getaway all to yourselves, however, there are many romantic date ideas for the surrounding area if you want to add more to your Valentine’s Day date. The way to everyone’s heart in through their stomach: o Breitenbach Wine Cellars makes unique wines including a Dandelion wine. The café is open year-round if you want a wood-fired pizza to pair with your wine. Be sure to purchase a bottle of your favorite wine to drink later in your room. Actually, pick up two bottles and enjoy one when you return home as you reminisce about your trip. There are 20+ more wineries in the area if you want to create your own wine country tour. o You can sample over 60 different cheeses at Guggisberg Cheese . Arrive in the morning Monday through Friday to watch the cheese being made. Maybe it will even encourage a new hobby of cheese making that you can explore together. Self-guided cheese tours are also available at Bunker Hill Cheese Company . The third-generation, family-owned company, also known as Heini’s, was established in 1935. o Don’t forget sweets for your sweet. At Coblentz Chocolate Company you can enter the viewing gallery to see how the chocolate is made. Afterwards, create your own box of tempting dark, milk, and white chocolate creations. Add some culture to your getaway o There is something so romantic about getting dressed up for a show. The Ohio Star Theater features a Valentine’s Special on February 10 and 11. The show includes heartfelt messages through country and bluegrass gospel music. Celebrating your valentine on a different weekend in February this year? The theater has a different show every weekend of that month. o They say that laughter is the best medicine. It is also one of the most beautiful sounds in the world. The Amish Country Theater hosts a Valentine’s Spectacular that is sure to tickle your funny bone. Be sure to get tickets for this one-of-kind, two-hour show on Saturday, February 11. o Imagine seeing a piece of art on your wall every day that reminds you of your love for each other. Stop by the Berlin Creek and Blue River Galleries to browse for something that speaks to you both. The gallery boasts paintings by local artists, homemade pottery, exotic jewelry, and handblown glass. Gifts for your sweetie o Berlin celebrates Valentine’s Day with a special “ Sweet on You ” event each year. Multiple shops throughout town have sales on items just because of the holiday. The dates for the 2023 event are February 13-18. Set out together to find a gift your can share or split up for a couple hours in order to surprise each other with something unique and unexpected. o Sol’s in Berlin is the area’s largest arts and crafts mall. Considered by many to be a one-stop shop for handmade gifts, a visit to Sol’s is an adventure. Want a preview of what you may find there? Check out the booth gallery . You can even make a game out of the visit. Each of the booths is numbered. Pick a number before entering, then choose a gift for your sweetie from the booth with the matching number.
Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center

The Museums and Historical Sites of Ohio’s Amish Country

By ALICIA DEMO • December 13, 2023
Ohio’s Amish Country is ripe with culture ranging from Amish and Mennonite history to a glass plant to pro football memorabilia. This post features 13 different museums and historical sites. Even if you visit two a day, you will still need an entire week to see them all. Of course, you can always plan multiple little trips throughout the year to see them all. Each museum or historical site is listed below, in alphabetic order, with three reasons why you should add that location to your Ohio Amish County vacation. Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum The museum features locomotives, railroad cars, tools, and machinery. The building is also an active roundhouse specializing in the preservation of railroad history. Since it is a working museum, visitors are allowed onsite via guided tours only. However, the guided tours guarantee behind-the-scenes information. Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center The highlight of the center is Behalt, a 265-foot circular mural depicting Amish and Mennonite history. The center also features a pre-civil war, one-room school house and a pioneer barn with an Amish buggy display. Stop into the bookstore and gift shop for local crafts, handmade baskets, and a selection of books about Amish and Mennonite culture. BibleWalk Ohio’s only wax museum features 325 wax figures portraying 100 biblical scenes. The interactive exhibits include sound effects and dialogue. While parts of the museum have fees, there are free exhibits including a rare bible collection, Christian art gallery, and American votive folk art. David Warther Carvings The exhibit includes more than 90 carvings made from antique ivory, ebony wood, and abalone pearl. David Warther works in his on-site workshop daily. There is a high chance you will get to see him working on a piece when you visit. The carvings depict the “History of the Ship.” The museum has five rooms focusing on different eras of shipbuilding. Erb’s Coleman Lantern Museum Erb services Coleman lanterns and started a collection three decades ago. The museum houses more than 3,000 Coleman items. Along with lanterns, visitors will see gas cooking stoves, ice chests, irons, hot plates, and advertising. Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens The museum includes hand-sculpted pieces that focus on the steam-engine. The museum is owned and operated by third and fourth generation family members and it includes the Warther Family Home, “Button House,” Ernest’s workshop, and an arboretum. Ernest Warther was David Warther’s grandfather (see David Warther Carvings above). German Culture Museum Visitors are treated to a snapshot of life in Holmes County and Walnut Creek Township during the 19 th and 20 th The museum features artifacts relating to Joseph Stutzman, the “Father of Amish Country.” Exhibits include a surrey which is a doorless, four-wheeled carriage. Historic Roscoe Village The town, along the Ohio & Eric Canal, was originally built in 1830 and restored 50 years ago. Self-guided living history tours are available daily from 10am until 4pm. See the city along a unique horse-drawn canal boat ride. Killbuck Valley Historical Society and Museum Learn about the natural and cultural history of the region. Venture into the taxidermy section for birds and small game native to the area. Every visit is different because the museum features rotating displays. Millersburg Glass Museum The museum features Millersburg Carnival and Crystal glass made between 1909 and 1912. Visitors can also learn about the history of the local glass plant. The glasswork is cherished by collectors. Some of the items on display are on loan from private collections. Open Air Art Museum The museum features art created by local and regional artists using a variety of mediums. The Haiku Walk boasts 30 large stones with gingko leaf-shaped steel plates engraved with haiku poems in both English and traditional Japanese characters. Woven is a massive installation that used materials found on the grounds of the Open Air Art Museum. Pro Football Hall of Fame Learn about each hall of famer by using the kiosks beside each bronze bust in the Hall of Fame Gallery. See one-of-a-kind artifacts and championship rings in the Lamar Hunt Super Bowl Gallery. Upgrade to the “Insider’s Tour” to learn background about the exhibits that is not included on the captions. Victorian House Museum The home is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is a 28 room Queen Anne style home that spans 7,000 square feet. The home was featured on HGTV’s “Victorian America.”
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