HOCKING HILLS LUXURY LODGE HEATED POOL/ BEAUTIFUL HILLSIDE VIEWS

The Grand Tara Lodge is a wonderful home to enjoy with family and friends. We had 8 adults and 9 kids (ages 7-13) in our group and had a great time together enjoying so many amenities under one roof. We found the property to be as advertised, clean and with so much to do.

Although there was a minor glitch in the initial reservation process, Kelly (the owner) was more than accommodating to us to ensure our satisfaction. He answered numerous questions for us as we prepared to make the journey from Cincinnati.

I had read some of the previous reviews and actually appreciate Kelly's cameras on the parking lot (I view it as extra security for the guests as well) and the signs in the house. Yes there are quite a few but the end result I believe is that the property is treated better and this leaves it to be in better shape (for our enjoyment) and for others to enjoy in the future.

We knew the kids would enjoy the games and karaoke but I was surprised how much the adults got into it as well. This provided numerous hours of entertainment for all to the point of raspy voices in the morning.

We did make it out for one hike to Ash Cave and Cedar Falls on the second day which was about a 10 minute drive away. The following day, I asked if anyone wanted to go to Old Man's Cave (had been there in prior years) and the consensus was unanimous that everyone wanted to stay at the house to enjoy the games and time together. We even had a few groups explore the trails on the property and participate in a friendly touch football game in the large backyard. The hot tub and sauna were also a big hit even though snow was on the ground.

The only challenge we had was only having one bathroom on the upper level with 4 bedrooms. We made it work though as there are 4 baths and 4 showers throughout the house. The eating and kitchen area worked out very well. The kids ate at the round table in the dining room while the parents could have conversations at the kitchen table. The kitchen was well stocked with every appliance you could possibly need. The only disappointment was the pinball machine as it randomly turns off during play.

It was fun to see the kids move around from activity to activity. They even enjoyed some "downtime" watching one of the numerous movies that are onsite on the huge projection television.

We are already talking about coming back in 2014 and look forward to making more memories with family and friends at the Grand Tara Lodge.