EAGLES MERE | When you’re finished climbing to this remote retreat, you won’t question why they call this area the Endless Mountains. At the end of your climb, you’ll find
a special place where it’s just you, Mother Nature, and a handful of cute boutique shops thrown in for good measure.
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drive time: 3 hours.
stay here: At the Crestmont Inn & Restaurant, Tony and Melissa Faulkiner have revived the gracious legacy that began in the 1800s, when Eagles Mere was developed as a summer resort for wealthy Philadelphians. The 15-guestroom inn reflects the feeling of Eagles Mere itself—easygoing and country comfortable. Tennis courts are adjacent to the inn, and breakfast is included with your stay. 180 Crestmont Drive, Eagles Mere, (570) 525-3519, crestmont-inn.com.
eat here: Tony Faulkiner is also the chef at the Crestmont Inn. He offers three dining options: upscale romantic (think porcini-dusted scallops and prosciutto-wrapped rack of lamb), pub casual (the BLT is made with pork belly and fresh mozzarella), and outdoors ($12-$29). He also hosts monthly wine-tasting dinners.
to-do list: Members and those staying in member accommodations like the Crestmont Inn can play on Eagles Mere’s 250-acre, spring-fed private lake, with its blooming laurel. Rent a canoe or kayak ($11.50/hour, $23/day), or a sailboat ($23/hour, $35/day); two-hour minimum or full day. Paddleboats are also available ($2.50/30 minutes).
With four wineries within a 20-mile drive, tours are becoming a popular attraction in Eagles Mere. At Eagle Rock Winery, try the Bordeaux blend Millionaires’ Heritage. 58 Grouse Woods Drive, Laporte, (570) 946-7767, eaglerockwinery.com. Laddsburg Mountain Winery produces some interesting specialties, including deep, rich ports and meads. 20 Winery Lane, New Albany, (570) 363-2476, laddsburgwine.com.
Throughout the summer, Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts host musical events that can range from classical to Broadway, jazz to swing—even an ABBA tribute band. Tickets
are $15-$25. (570) 525-3176, emfoa.org.
Eagles Mere Village is a cute collection of mom-and-pop shops along Route 42 (288 Eagles Mere Ave.) in the middle of town. Lakeside Traders (570-525-3777) is known
for its handcrafted items; The Lily Pad (570-525-3076) features wearable art and accessories; and Eagles Mere Art Gallery (570-525-3064, eaglesmereartgallery.com) spotlights local talent.
for thrifty types: The impressive collection of airplanes and related artifacts at the Eagles Mere Air Museum covers the post-World War I period through the late 1930s. Call in advance to see if any will be flying on the day you want to visit. Admission is $5 per family. Merritt Field, Route 42, Eagles Mere, (570) 946-7663, eaglesmereairmuseum.org.
Only six miles from Eagles Mere in Worlds End State Park, the hiking is excellent — especially if you find yourself surveying the view from Loyalsock Canyon Vista or High Knob Vista. (570) 924-3287, visitpaparks.com.
For more spectacular scenery, take the Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park, located about 20 minutes from Eagles Mere. The hike is challenging, but the reward is 21 waterfalls that range in height from 11 to 94 feet. (570) 477-5675, visitpaparks.com.
Be sure to check out the full slate of nature programs for children and adults offered by the Eagles Mere Conservancy in July and August. Don’t miss Astronomy Night or one of the many hikes led by naturalists. Donations are appreciated. (570) 525-3385, eaglesmereconservancy.org.
