Goshen, Indiana
Bed and Breakfast hosts Roz and Phil have created a comfortable retreat centered conveniently between Goshen and Shipshewana, Indiana. Spring View Bed & Breakfast is on a 40+ acre farm in the heart of Amish Country, Indiana and is comprised of two houses with six available rooms and a two bedroom suite with a full kitchen. It is a working farm with cattle and planted land, and a spring-fed lake sits just in front of both houses.
The larger house was built first and was designed as a bed and breakfast. The smaller house was built second as an in-laws home to house Roz's mom and Phil's parents. Now that all parents have passed, both homes are for guests. The suite that is in the lower level of the larger house was once Roz and Phil's private home and was converted to the suite after the couple moved next door to assist with Phil's parents in the later stages of their lives. The suite can comfortably sleep six with two bedrooms and a pull-out couch. There is only one bathroom available for the suite, so it may be best for a family rather than for couples looking to share a space with friends. The rest of the rooms in both houses feature large king beds, private bathrooms with whirlpool baths, Amish furniture, and many thoughtful amenities. Rates per night are very affordable at $69-$89 a night (subject to change).
We booked the Plum Room which is located in the second house. The large room was on the lower level and was filled with beautiful oak furniture and Amish rockers. A stocked fridge and a microwave were next to the dresser, and a small basket of snacks was provided for late night munchies. The bathroom featured a steam shower/whirlpool combo that was great during our snowy, cold stay. A nice touch available only in the Plum Room was the independently controllable thermostat, which we used to turn down the temp at night. Guest comfort is definitely a focus of the hosts. The room had fluffy bathrobes (not standard waffle robes), snacks, cold drinks, bottled water, tea and coffee (complete with hand-thrown mugs featuring the Inn's information), and even an umbrella for use. A carpeted step is available outside the shower to make getting in and out easier, a heater fan, and even bathroom spray are readily available for use. But for all of the well thought out amenities and extras, some things were oddly missed. The bed was a king that felt like two twins pushed together. While the bed was comfortable, it felt a bit like it sloped to the center. The rooms had plenty of light, but the bathroom was not well lit. Towels were very small and not very soft; they seemed more like something you'd get in an inexpensive motel rather than a nice B&B. Toiletries were also very inexpensive and not of great quality. Considering the Amish community and the availability of hand-made products, handmade soaps or towels would have been a nice touch.
The common areas of the houses are virtually similar, and both are comfortable and nicely appointed. There's an over abundance of Amish glider rockers and recliners, and oak end tables and bookshelves provide places to place your drink or book while relaxing. Both houses have two sunrooms/four season porches, and they provide a great place to quietly read, play games, or talk with other guests. Popcorn and beverages (hot and cold) are available for guests to use while relaxing, and in the larger house, small candy dishes provide a small treat to soothe the sweet tooth. In the summer months, the grounds are great for sitting next to the lake (perhaps dropping a line for catch and release fishing), taking a walk up to the barn to 'visit' the cows, or just strolling through the gardens. The setting is peaceful and quiet, yet quite beautiful, even in the winter when covered in snow.
A full breakfast is served in the larger sun porch in the large house. During our stay, stuffed french toast and ham, and blueberry pancakes and fresh sausages were served, and all were well prepared and delicious. Fresh fruit and homemade pastries (breakfast cookies and strudel) were also offered. Orange juice and water are served at the table, and tea and coffee are set up at a station in the common room. It has also been set up with the guests in mind and includes a dizzying variety of options for teas, coffees, sweeteners, syrups and more. Roz and Phil join the guests for breakfast, which provides a great time to learn more about the farm and what led them to becoming inn owners. A nicer couple would be hard to find; they are delightful to talk to, very knowledgeable of the area, and have an interesting family history. They truly make the experience at Spring View wonderful. Those looking for a comfortable stay with a filling and delicious breakfast included should add Spring View Bed and Breakfast to their list when visiting Amish Country Indiana.
We plan on returning in the summer when the area's in bloom and more area activities and attractions area available.
Pros: Friendly and accommodating owners
Great value
Convenient location that is quiet and peaceful
Comfortable, large guest rooms and nicely appointed bathrooms
Focused on guest comfort
Delicious breakfast and snacks/drinks available
Cons: Bathroom towels and amenities aren't up to standard set in rest of experience
Sloped bed was somewhat uncomfortable
Spring View Bed & Breakfast rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
