When we turned up the gravel road near the tiny town of Laurelville in the Hocking Hills region of Ohio, lights strung between trees of the woods lit the way up the hill to Arbor Ridge. Arbor Ridge is one of the two yurts of Hocking Hills Cabins and Yurts.
This pristine property surrounded by woods is within a short driving distance of all that Hocking Hills has to offer. Miles of trails in Hocking Hills State Park, small towns with local dining and shops, plus outdoor recreation that includes disc golf, canoeing, kayaking, and zip lining, mean there is a lot to do.
What is a Yurt?
Connected to a history that dates back 3,000 years to Central Asia, yurts are historically round, portable homes used by nomadic people. Back then, felt, canvas, and animal skins were used as covering. These days, durable vinyl covers the wooden lattice work frame. A circular plexiglass dome typically covers the opening at the top of modern-day yurts.
Glamping in Hocking Hills
The yurts of Hocking Hills Cabins and Yurts fit the glamping version. Built off the ground on large wooden platforms, Arbor Ridge creates a perfect stay. When my husband and I arrived after dark in the rain, it felt like we were entering an upscale haven. This is a place we didn’t want to leave.
Using the code to the lock box to retrieve the key, I stepped into the living area, a cozy, well-appointed space of the great room. Even the word cozy is on the pillow, gracing the armchair. The leather couch with its pillows and throw blanket is an inviting place to watch the large flat screen TV, read a book, visit, or just listen to the pattering of rain. Other homey touches include a basket with two rolled throws and an electric fireplace. An area rug creates a space separate from the kitchen. The kitchen also says glamping.
A Well-appointed Kitchen
A table with four chairs is part of this lovely space that includes a granite counter with a cooktop stove, sink, and a regular-size refrigerator. A Keurig coffee maker and a microwave round out the appliances. Dishes, pots, pans, glassware, and utensils for six people are tucked into cabinets. A great set of knives and an Ohio-shaped cutting board round out the kitchen offerings. I did find salt and pepper, plus a few other seasonings, in one of the cabinets. Two Keurig coffee pods were tucked into a basket on the table along with kitchen towels, a pack of M&Ms, and microwave popcorn.
Because we arrived after eating dinner at Inn at Cedar Falls, another gorgeous Hocking Hills property that includes yurts, cabins, and a restaurant known for fine dining, we only used the kitchen for breakfast. My husband ordered the Surf & Turf, by the way, and savored every bite. The menu of Inn at Cedar Falls changes seasonally.
The Bedrooms
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Both of the bedrooms in Arbor Ridge have walls, but instead of having a ceiling, they are open to let the light in from the dome. One bedroom has a queen-size bed. The bedroom we slept in has a king bed, a bedside table, a luggage rack, and a small closet.
The bed with its quality bedding is super comfortable. Waking up to light coming in from the dome is a lovely way to start the day.
The Hot Tub
Another lovely way to start the day is to spend time in the hot tub. There is a 6-person hot tub on the deck. Fortunately, it stopped raining by the morning, so I was able to enjoy the view of the woods before breakfast. Clear directions are posted on how to use the tub. Super simple.
The deck also has outdoor furniture and a barbecue grill. Across the gravel road, there is a firepit with chairs and provided firewood between the two yurts.
The Bathroom
While the two bedrooms don’t have a ceiling, the splendid bathroom does. The ceiling, fitting for a glamping-style yurt, is made of light wood boards. Grey stone tiles create a gorgeous walk-in shower space. Modern lighting, a stylish vanity sink, and an abstract landscape scene painting add to an upscale feel. You’ll need to bring toiletries and a hairdryer with you. There are hand soap and towels, including beach towels for use with the hot tub.
Close By Outings
After we checked out, following the directions on the refrigerator, we headed to Rock House, a section of Hocking Hills State Park. On the way, we stopped in Jack Pine Studio to watch the glass blowers at work and shop.
Rock House is about a 15-minute drive from the Arbor Ridge Yurt. The Rock House, part of the state park, has a challenging trail that leads down to the only true cave in the Hocking Hills region of Ohio. This is some mighty gorgeous scenery with a rich history that includes Native Americans, pioneers, stills, and outlaws.
More on Hocking Hills Yurts and Cabins
Rates are seasonal. Even in the winter, you can stay here because the yurts are heated and also have air conditioning.
Firewood with Urban Pine yurt in the background
The other yurt, Urban Pine, is similar to Arbor Ridge. Down the hill from the yurts is the property’s four-bedroom, high-end cabin. There is plenty of parking at each.
Rates for the yurts range from $249 to $379, depending upon the day and the season. Weekends cost more. Book through the Hocking Hills Cabins and Yurt website. Once you book, you’ll receive clear instructions on how to access the property. There is Wi-Fi and a Roku TV for plenty of viewing options.
My stay was courtesy of Hocking Hills Yurts and Cabins while I was in the area doing research on yurt stays in Ohio. We plan to go back with friends. I so loved this place.
