Travel

Looking for a peaceful escape that combines authentic history with modern luxury? In this Glasbern Inn review, I’ll share how this remarkable property in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley surprised us with a truly special getaway.

This 150-acre estate delivers an authentic countryside experience that feels worlds away from typical hotel stays. At Glasbern, you’ll discover farm-to-table dining featuring ingredients grown right on the grounds, expertly restored 18th-century buildings brimming with character, and and some of the most pristine countryside you’ll find in the Mid-Atlantic.

But what truly sets Glasbern Inn apart is how authentic it feels. This isn’t a themed hotel trying to look historic.

Every building, every path, and every meal reflects the spirit of the working farm it once was. It’s a place where chipmunks greet you on forest trails, and the bread pudding is so legendary the chef won’t give up the recipe.

And trust me, once you experience it, you’ll understand why we’re already planning our return visits for fall foliage and winter fireside dining.

Glasbern Inn Review: Our Stay in Lehigh Valley

After hearing so much about this wonderful property in Fogelsville, PA, we finally experienced it for ourselves, and it more than lived up to the hype.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend, a cozy countryside retreat, or just exceptional farm to table dining, Glasbern delivers.

Here’s everything we loved about Glasbern (and think you’ll love too).

How to Get to Glasbern Inn

The drive from the Philadelphia area to Glasbern Inn is straightforward and stress-free. It’s a direct shot up I-476 North from Philly (or I-78 from New York), less than two hours through Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.

Arriving at the Main House immediately sets Glasbern apart from standard check-in experiences. The staff greets you warmly at the front desk and takes time to personally orient you to the property with a detailed map, pointing out everything from your room location to the best trails. You’ll get a reservation for breakfast and they’ll also show you exactly which parking area is closest to your room.

And here’s a nice touch: Coffee, tea, water, and fresh pastries are available in the Main House all day until dinner, so you never have to worry about getting hungry between meals.

First Impressions at Glasbern Inn

Once you’re settled in on Glasbern’s sprawling property, you’ll feel an immediate sense of peace.

For this Glasbern Inn review, we visited on a sunny summer day and the lush grounds were so expansive and vibrant that we found ourselves slowing down just to take it all in.

Dating back to 1787, Glasbern showcases masterfully preserved buildings that each tell their own story: the Main Barn from 1870, historic Stables with their incredible authentic craftsmanship, and charming cottages that remind you of simpler times.

What strikes you most is how this feels like your own private village rather than a traditional hotel.

We had planned to explore the surrounding Lehigh Valley, but honestly, we didn’t want to leave Glasbern. We spent our two days completely relaxed, exploring the trails, and enjoying the property.

A Legacy of Vision and Preservation

As a member of Historic Hotels of America, Glasbern Inn represents one of the nation’s most authentic preservation success stories, and trust me, you can feel that authenticity the moment you arrive.

In January 2024, the David Jaindl Family became the new owners, purchasing it from longtime steward Al Granger and continuing a remarkable story that began in 1985.

Here’s the story. Al and his late wife Beth discovered this neglected farm in the heart of the Lehigh Valley after it had been sitting vacant for 13 years. Where others saw decay, Beth envisioned a place where guests could enjoy warm hospitality and fresh food grown right on the land. Al spent nearly four decades bringing that vision to life and remained active on the property into his nineties, even tending to the grounds himself.

Authentic Reconstruction Over Modern Imitation

Every restoration choice prioritized authenticity over convenience. The transformation began with the 1870 Main Barn, which initially served as the Grangers’ home, guest lodge, restaurant, and reception area all rolled into one. The Stables weren’t even originally on this property. They were dismantled from a nearby farm, transported beam by beam, and meticulously rebuilt here. The Packhouse has an equally fascinating origin story, created by combining two rundown barns from another farm into what’s now a spacious twelve-room guest building. And The Dairy, which once housed actual cattle producing cheese and yogurt for sale, now serves as a six-bedroom luxury guest house that blends rustic charm with modern comfort.

A Property That Keeps Evolving

What I love about Glasbern is how it continues evolving while staying true to its roots. The Glasloft transformed from an open-air patio to an enclosed space with those stunning pond views we couldn’t stop photographing. The Grand Lodge evolved from a simple tented event space to a magnificent venue with twenty-foot ceilings and exposed beams that take your breath away. Even the wedding pavilion has an unexpected origin: it was originally built for the previous owner’s wife to enjoy pickleball.

Carrying the Glasbern Legacy Forward

The Jaindl Companies, with hospitality management by TKo, have embraced the spirit of preservation and care that Al and Beth Granger started nearly four decades ago.

Where We Stayed: The Stables Deluxe Suite

When booking at Glasbern, guests can choose from accommodations spread across multiple buildings, each with its own character. We opted for the Stables Deluxe Suite, and it perfectly embodies those luxury rustic Pocono vibes that we are completely here for.

A highlight of our suite was the spiral staircase leading to a loft hot tub positioned dramatically above the king bed. Surrounded by exposed Amish framing, this was both a delightful surprise and a romantic touch. The combination of authentic 18th-century craftsmanship with modern luxury amenities creates an atmosphere that you simply can’t find anywhere else.

The plush king bed, ideal temperature, and quiet room gave us two great nights of sleep. After exploring all day, we’d settle in for movie nights in the spacious living area. There’s also a gas fireplace and a private outdoor deck that make this suite a true retreat.

We were also greeted with a stunning charcuterie platter that was next level. Artisanal meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, spreads, and veggies arranged so artfully and generously that we didn’t need to leave for lunch. I’d definitely suggest ordering this for exactly that reason, it’s a meal unto itself.

The location of the Stables is very convenient. It’s secluded with woodland views, but still only a short walk to the Main Barn for dining and other amenities. With parking right outside and no steps, bringing in luggage was effortless. But the coolest feature was definitely the woodwork throughout the building, adding old-world charm that connects you directly to Pennsylvania’s heritage.

Glasbern’s Farm-to-Table Dining Experience

Glasbern elevates Pennsylvania countryside dining with exceptional farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the very best of local and on-property sourcing. The Glasbern restaurant, housed in the Main Barn delivers an unforgettable dining experience that feels both elegant and authentically rustic.

Dinner in the Historic Great Room

Executive Chef Christopher Feraudo brings over 25 years of culinary experience and recent recognition as a winner of the 2023 Landry’s Iron Chef competition to Glasbern. His passion for creating experiences through food is evident in every single dish. The restaurant sources the majority of its ingredients locally, with much coming directly from Glasbern’s own garden.

Our favorite dishes included the French Onion Soup. It’s a huge portion with rich, deeply developed flavors topped with that balance of crispy and melted cheese that hits just right. The Braised Short Ribs served over mashed potatoes with carrots and red wine demi-glace were super tender and expertly prepared. The Poached Maine Lobster Risotto featuring asparagus and sun-dried tomatoes was cooked to perfection with generous portions of lobster that made every bite feel luxurious.

But here’s where Chef Christopher works his magic. The Bread Pudding was simply the best we’ve ever had. This dessert somehow manages to be rich, super light, and creamy all at the same time. We tried to guess the technique and ingredients but when we asked Chef Christopher how he did it, he just smiled and wouldn’t tell us how he achieved this culinary miracle.

Keep your secrets, Chef. It just gives us another reason to return!

Breakfast: Forget Everything You Know About B&B Breakfasts

Forget everything you know about typical B&B breakfast offerings because Glasbern’s complimentary country style breakfast is phenomenal and operates like a full restaurant experience.

There’s a complete menu of expertly prepared dishes you can choose from, plus an impressive selection of fresh-baked goods ready for grabbing with your coffee.

The breakfast spread includes Danish, scones, cinnamon buns, and croissants, along with fresh fruit, yogurt, and juices, all with full table service that we looked forward to each morning.

Our breakfast highlights included the Baked Vegetable Frittata. It’s a colorful presentation, loaded with tomato, red peppers, spinach, onions, mushrooms, and goat cheese. The Crème Brûlée French Toast with vanilla bean battered brioche and powdered sugar is definitely dessert for breakfast… and we regret nothing.

The breakfast experience became a true highlight of our stay and made us want to linger on the property even longer each morning. The quality and presentation rival any upscale restaurant, proving that Glasbern doesn’t cut corners anywhere.

The Pub: A Hidden Gem You Might Miss

Tucked just off the main entrance is The Pub, and to be honest, it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. But skipping it would be a mistake. This cozy spot opens at 4 PM and works well for a late lunch or drinks before dinner.

We kicked things off with Nashville Hot Wings that nailed the balance between sweet and spicy, followed by Turkey Meatball Parmesan that was comforting and full of flavor. Our server Bria was fantastic. She was warm, attentive, and made us feel like regulars from the moment we arrived.

There’s a great drink menu here too. We had a refreshing strawberry margarita, a Paloma, and a classic pint of Yuengling that went well with our apps. The pub offers a more casual alternative to the main dining room while maintaining the same commitment to quality and genuine hospitality that defines Glasbern.

Exploring Glasbern Where Every Corner Holds a Surprise

While Glasbern’s exceptional dining might tempt you to never leave the restaurant, the property offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation across its pristine 150 acres that are impeccably maintained.

Wildlife Encounters That Became Daily Highlights

During our hikes around the property, we were delighted by frequent wildlife encounters that became something we looked forward to each day. Chipmunks would pop out and surprise us throughout our walks, baby rabbits were munching on grass, huge koi can be found in the ponds, and plenty of local birds added to the magical feeling of being truly connected to nature.

Scenic Trails and Picture-Perfect Moments

Glasbern’s wooded trails wind through flower-filled meadows, past tranquil ponds, and around historic farm structures. The trails range in length, with the longest just under two miles, making them ideal for sunrise walks, nature photography, or simply finding a quiet spot to relax.

Photogenic moments present themselves at every turn. There’s something wonderful to capture around every corner, from climbing the new stone steps on the hillsides that offer amazing views of the entire property, to the relaxing fountains and streams where you can find a shady spot to listen to the water and watch the wildlife.

The meticulously manicured grounds are largely the work of Kenny, the dedicated groundskeeper who maintains this vast property nearly single-handedly. Kenny was out there working the entire time we were visiting, and his stories about the property are as entertaining as they are informative. His dedication shows in every detail, from the pristine walking paths to the carefully tended gardens.

The property transforms dramatically with the seasons. When the leaves change in fall, it becomes incredibly stunning, while winter brings cozy fireside dining and easy access to nearby skiing.

Wellness and Relaxation in Historic Settings

The Spa at Glasbern offers a serene escape with multiple treatment rooms and a relaxation area where you can unwind surrounded by authentic barn wood and exposed beams. You can choose from Swedish, deep-tissue, or hot-stone massages, all delivered by licensed professionals in settings that feel like stepping back in time.

The seasonal heated outdoor pool, located behind the Carriage House, became one of our favorite spots during our summer visit. This spacious pool area features plenty of comfortable lounge chairs and is surrounded by lush woodland. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing swim or just want to relax poolside with a good book, it’s yet another reason to stay on the property and soak in the countryside setting.

The Fitness Center provides 24/7 access with treadmill and elliptical machines, free weights, strength training equipment, plus yoga mats and space for stretching.

The People Who Make Glasbern Special

The staff at Glasbern is simply outstanding, providing hospitality that makes every interaction memorable. From check-in to check-out, everyone goes above and beyond to make you feel truly welcomed.

Beth, the innkeeper, has a wealth of knowledge about the property’s fascinating history and loves sharing stories that bring the place to life. She told us how celebrities like Mr. T, Muhammad Ali, and Mario Andretti have stayed at Glasbern over the years, adding to its rich legacy of hosting notable guests. And in case you’re wondering, she’ll be quick to tell you that the property is not haunted, just full of character!

Kenny, the groundskeeper, is full of entertaining tales about the property’s evolution and his years working alongside Al Granger. His story about having to take Al’s weedwacker away when he was in his 90s captures the hands-on spirit that still defines this place.

The entire dining team was consistently excellent, from the kitchen staff working hard to create beautifully presented, delicious dishes to the servers who provided attentive service that made every meal feel special.

Best Things to Do Near Glasbern Inn

While we barely wanted to leave the property during our stay, Glasbern’s location provides easy access to some fantastic Lehigh Valley attractions when you’re ready to explore beyond those peaceful grounds.

See also

 💡 For even more ideas visit the Glasbern Things To Do page

Is Glasbern Inn Worth It?

Is Glasbern worth it? Definitely.

Glasbern Inn is a rare find and one of the most unique Lehigh Valley boutique hotels. It stays true to its historic roots while offering warm hospitality, beautifully restored buildings, and exceptional farm-to-table dining from Chef Christopher. Whether you’re relaxing fireside, soaking in a spiral-staircase hot tub, or exploring the wooded trails, the experience is both peaceful and elevated.

What stood out most was how Glasbern works equally well whether you want to stay on property and soak in the tranquil atmosphere, or use it as a luxury base for exploring the nearby wineries, trails, and small towns of Lehigh Valley. There’s no pressure either way, and the staff excels at helping you create exactly the experience you’re seeking.

I’d absolutely recommend it for travelers who appreciate authentic history, great food, and natural settings where you can truly unwind.

Planning Your Perfect Glasbern Getaway

Glasbern is easily one of the best romantic getaways in Pennsylvania. It offers a quaint countryside setting, cozy suites with fireplaces, and slow mornings over gourmet breakfast. But it’s not just for couples. The inn also shines as a solo trip or for business retreats, where the natural surroundings inspire focus, connection, and creativity.

If you’re searching for a historic countryside inn near Philadelphia with charm, privacy, and award-winning cuisine, Glasbern delivers all of that in a setting that feels quietly luxurious. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy each moment.

I hope this Glasbern Inn review helps you plan your own unforgettable trip!

Best time to visit: Fall for stunning foliage, winter for skiing, spring for blooming gardens, or summer for hiking and relaxing poolside.

How long to stay: Plan at least two nights to fully experience the property. Three nights gives you time to explore nearby Lehigh Valley attractions without feeling rushed.

What to book: The Stables Deluxe Suite for that unique spiral staircase hot tub, or The Dairy for larger groups. Reserve dinner tables early, especially on weekends.

Directions to Glasbern