The Cider Mill Bed and Breakfast of Zoar is packed with history
By Jennifer Kneuss
The Cider Mill Bed and Breakfast of Zoar is a stunning example of the blending of historical preservation with exceptional hospitality.
The building is the original 1863 cider mill operated by the Zoar Separatists community. The timeless beauty of soaring open beams and rafters has been kept intact by innkeepers Sondra and Patrick Ragon, who have also lavishly decorated the two floors of the bed and breakfast with an intriguing assortment of primitive furniture and collectibles.
“We decided to open the Cider Mill Bed and Breakfast because Patrick and I loved the history of Zoar, and we loved the gardens,” explained Sondra. She knew that opening a bed and breakfast would be the perfect fit for the couple, who are both educators. “Plus, I’m a gourmet cook, and I love people!”
Sondra’s love of old-fashioned wooden rocking horses and spinning wheels is evident throughout the house. A huge stone fireplace serves as the centerpiece of the Great Room, where comfortable furniture beckons guests to relax. Yet another living area features a beautiful wooden carved fireplace, more seating, and a lovely grand piano, as well as a magnificent, hand-painted mural of the famous Zoar Gardens at the heart of the village. The lower level, the site of the original cider mill operation, has been transformed into a gift shop. Sondra is a primitive reproduction crafter, and the shop showcases her work, as well as an extensive offering of primitives, early Americana décor, antiques and reproductions. Guests enjoy browsing throughout the store, marveling at the many treasures offered there.
The guest rooms are the gems of the old mill. Visitors climb an iron and wood crafted spiral staircase to the open-rail, loft-style hall leading to the bedrooms. From the hall, visitors can peer down to the living area on the first floor, as well as the gift shop on the lowest level. Gracie’s Room contains a charming double bed layered with whimsical rosebud bedding, and an antique dresser with touches of long-ago finery. Around the corner, Elizabeth’s Room welcomes guests with a full early Americana theme, its rich deep reds, creams, and blues blending harmoniously with the authentic plastered walls and open rafters. Both rooms have a private bath and shower.
Guests seeking the ultimate in comfort will enjoy the suite accommodations of Abigail’s Room. A large four-poster bed is flanked by a fireplace and cozy seating area. A wall of windows flood the room with light, providing a lovely view of the grounds, and windows also light up the spacious private bath, which features individual his and hers pedestal sinks, an authentic claw foot tub, and shower. Spa and massage services are available, as well as Internet and cable television.
Sondra’s gourmet breakfasts can be enjoyed either in the formal dining room, eat-in kitchen, or alfresco on the wraparound porch, all the while soaking in the lovely view of the gardens and the family’s ducks skimming across the pond. At day’s end, special treats, beverages, and, of course, cider, are provided.
Patrick, who has a doctorate in education and a master’s degree in divinity, can perform marriage ceremonies for those wishing to exchange their vows on the beautiful grounds of the Cider Mill. He also provides on-site seminars on self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Sondra teaches gourmet cooking and craft classes for those wishing to expand their talents in those areas.
The Cider Mill is truly unique in its setting, its offerings, and amenities. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind lodging experience, while stepping back in history, with the luxurious accommodations of the Cider Mill Bed and Breakfast of Zoar.
