The long winter days have set in and what better way to enjoy them than at Oglebay in Wheeling, West Virginia. A place where the air is filled with the sounds of a crackling fireplace and the views are of serene beauty everywhere you look.
Oglebay finishes the spectacular Festival of Lights on January 8 and gears up for another exciting event, WinterFest. This three-day event, January 27-29, is sure to get you in the winter spirit. WinterFest kicks off with the Polar Plunge at Schenk Lake and the proceeds benefit the Special Olympics of West Virginia.
The fun continues throughout the day with ice sculpture demonstrations, ski clinics, prize giveaways, seasonal eats, local brews, and more. Be sure to drop in on the WinterFest party Saturday evening, featuring a live band.
“I can’t think of a better experience for any family, than coming together to enjoy the lights and sounds of the season during the Festival of Lights or finding some peace and quiet after the holidays, snuggled up by the fireplace in an Oglebay cottage with a winter getaway,” said Wendy Hodorowski, Oglebay Marketing Director.
Guests staying at Oglebay can enjoy The West Spa, a luxurious 5,000-square-foot sanctuary with many amenities. The spa offers best-in-class services paired with the finest products and equipment.
Melt your stress and winter blues away with the Oglebay Signature Journey, a sophisticated treatment of tailored exfoliation paired with a rich envelopment of pure shea butter. Afterwards, a soothing rain shower and full body massage with warm pink Himalayan salt stones will refresh both body and mind.
Need some retail therapy? No problem as Oglebay has that covered as dwell. Visit the Carriage House, where they feature Fiestaware at outlet prices and beautiful hand-blown glass pieces from regional artists.
If you are in the mood for something sweet head over to the Farmhouse Sweets & Treats as they specialize in chocolate and candy. Kirke’s homemade ice cream is served daily and is a must-have.
The Resort Shop in Wilson Lodge offers a variety of Oglebay souvenirs, apparel, snacks, and more. Stop by The West Spa Boutique to pick from a wide selection of luxurious bath and skincare products to continue your relaxation at home.
If you are ready to head out on an outside adventure, check out Oglebay’s Good Zoo, the only AZA-accredited zoo in the state of WV. It is home to over 50 species of animals, 20 of which are rare or endangered. There are indoor and outdoor habitats to enjoy including red pandas, an albino alligator, tamarin monkeys, lemurs, and more. Be sure to see Poe and Raven’s (the river hogs) little one, Koka. Animal experiences are offered to those who would like a more unique opportunity to be up close and personal with some of these fascinating species.
Experience skiing and snowboarding at the Nutting Winter Sports Complex, when the snow starts flying. Rental skis and snowboards are available for the beautiful ski area, which includes a triple chair lift. If you are unable to ski or snowboard – no worries as they offer lessons and clinics (there is a fee), which includes the rental equipment. If you enjoy ice skating head over to Oglebay’s sister park, Wheeling Park, and lace up your skates.
There is no need for your golf clubs to collect dust as their championship golf courses are open year-round, weather permitting. You can also still take those hikes you enjoyed in the warmer months as it brings a whole new experience in the off-season. Oglebay offers miles of walking and hiking trails. Over 4 miles of paved walkways and unpaved trails have been restored from the early 1900s that take in the majestic views of Oglebay’s landscape.
When those winter blues set in, remember there is something for everyone at Oglebay during the winter months. Whether you enjoy sitting by the fireplace with a glass of wine or a book to adrenaline activities such as skiing and snowboarding, there is something for everyone.
You will even find peace in watching the deer gracefully roam the hillside. It is a place that many have found to be their “second home.”
“Everybody talks about southern hospitality. At Oglebay, we found there’s northern hospitality as well. They took good care of us.” -James Hess of Surfside Beach
Oglebay is located an hour from Pittsburgh, PA and within three hours of Columbus or Cleveland, Ohio. Oglebay offers a magical sort of beauty that is sure to touch the soul. Situated on a Wheeling, WV hilltop, the 250-room Wilson Lodge or 55 quaint cottages with modern amenities brings a feel like a warm hug.
The word “cozy” is one Oglebay often hears from its guests.
Oglebay Offers Relaxation and Fun During the Winter Months