The Settlers Inn

The Settlers Inn in Hawley is the northern Poconos at its most gracious: a stone and timber inn in the Arts and Crafts tradition, with gardens, a restaurant that is a destination in itself and rooms that feel more like a country home than a hotel. The inn dates from the early twentieth century, and its architecture shows the craftsmanship of the era, with exposed beams, a stone fireplace and carefully chosen furnishings. It sits near the center of Hawley, a small town of galleries and shops, and a short drive from Lake Wallenpaupack. The restaurant is the heart of the inn, with a menu that leans on local and seasonal ingredients, and it draws diners from across the region. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room, drinks by the fire and a quiet garden. The rooms are individually decorated, ranging from cozy to spacious, and the overall atmosphere is calm and personal. It is an excellent choice for couples looking for a romantic weekend and for travelers who value good food and quiet over entertainment and crowds.

Staying at an inn is different from staying at a large resort. There is no waterpark, arcade or ski lift, and the pleasures are simple: a good dinner, a quiet room, a walk in the garden and a morning coffee. This suits visitors who plan to spend their days on the lake, on trails or exploring the northern Poconos, and who want a refined place to return to in the evening. Children are generally welcome, but families seeking constant entertainment will find the pace slow.

Book well ahead for autumn weekends and holidays, when the inn fills with leaf-peepers and wedding guests. Midweek stays offer better availability and a more tranquil atmosphere. Ask about packages that include dinner or activities, and confirm policies on pets, children and cancellation. Dining reservations are recommended even for guests, particularly on weekend evenings.

Pack for relaxed evenings and outdoor days: sturdy shoes for the lake trails, a warm layer for the porch and something a little smarter for dinner. Ask about seasonal events at the inn, such as tastings and garden gatherings, and consider a midweek stay if you want the dining room and the village largely to yourself.

The location is ideal for exploring the lake region. Lake Wallenpaupack is a few minutes away, with boat rentals, fishing and trails, and Hawley offers shops and cafes. The Dorflinger glass museum and the Delaware River valley are within a short drive, and the central Poconos resorts are about an hour away. A car is essential. For a gentle, characterful Poconos stay that emphasizes food and atmosphere, The Settlers Inn is among the best options.