Image by: Enils

Der Ritterhof Inn is open and ready to welcome you to a fantastic stay here in Washington State’s back yard! 

 

That’s right, Der Ritterhof, nestled in the vast greenery of Leavenworth, Washington, is once again accepting guests to enjoy its Bavarian chalet-style lodgings, its panoramic, alpine views and its incredible proximity to nature. Our staff are taking the utmost precautions to ensure that we can offer the same high standard of service safely, so you can sit back and breathe the crisp mountain air!

 

Here are just some of the reasons you’ll want to escape from it all and stay at Der Ritterhof: 

 

ENJOY NATURE! GO FOR A HIKE! 

Der Ritterhof and Leavenworth are close to some of the best hiking trails in Washington – which puts them in the running for the best hiking trails in the world! There are plenty of opportunities to get away from the crowds and breathe in clean, refreshing air while taking in the glory of nature. 

 

The 4th of July Creek is a local favorite; while it is a steep climb without much in the way of shade, the view of the Stuart Range is absolutely worth the effort! 

 

Looking for something a little more relaxing? Chiwaukum Creek is a gentle walk along a babbling brook and surrounded by enormous Fir trees! Its views are not as impressive as some others in the area, but if you want peace and tranquility there is no beating this easy hike… that said, the full trail is an 11-mile round trip if you’re up to the task! 

 

Want a real challenge? The Alpine Lookout trail will tire even the most seasoned hikers but will result in one of the most spectacular views you’ll ever see. A lush blanket of trees covering steep mountains, and even a glimpse of the ocean in the distance.  

 

Der Ritterhof is the ultimate accommodation close to the many outdoor activities you can enjoy here in Leavenworth! 

 

Book your stay at Der Ritterhof today and we’ll be happy to direct you to some of the area’s most spectacular outdoor sites! 

Photo by: Victor MacGill.

 

As the world navigates the COVID-19 outbreak, we are all doing our part to limit its impact.

 

If you’re looking for the latest updates on the COVID-19 situation in Washington or the United States, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest news. For what we at Der Ritterhof Inn are doing, please see our latest announcement. 

 

While the situation is ever changing, it’s too soon to say when activities will return to normal. So we will leave you with a couple of reasons why Leavenworth, WA should be on your future radar: To be clear, we do not suggest travelling now. Please listen and follow all the social distancing and preventive measures being recommended by health officials. 

 

Plan a holiday getaway

Leavenworth lights up for the holiday season. Whether you’re planning to visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm or hop on a sleigh ride at Mountain Springs, your holiday getaway is going to be magical. The town also buzzes with special holiday themed events, from snowshoe tours to winter music festivals. See what took place in 2019 for a taste about what Leavenworth is like during the winter season. 

 

Explore agritourism in Washington

Washington is home to many different fruit and vegetable farms, from pears to apples to wine grapes. This means that there’s also plenty of agricultural tourism (agri-tourism) opportunities for visitors. Stop by a roadside on-farm market or plan a wine tasting tour! Visit Leavenworth’s site for all the possible agritourism options that are available.

 

These are only a snippet of what’s available in Leavenworth. We encourage you to flip through the past year of our blog page to see what Leavenworth is normally like.

 

For everyone here at Der Ritterhof Inn, we wish you and your loved ones the best during these difficult times. Stay healthy! 

 

Photo by: Free-Photos.

Tucked away in the Cascade Mountains but closely tied to its Bavarian roots, Leavenworth, WA helps you embrace winter with several events that celebrate the colder months. When you visit our charming city, known as The Bavarian Village, you'll find not only an abundance of snow, but also fun and entertainment.
 

TIMBRRR: Winter Music Festival

Who says outdoor musical festivals are only for the summertime? Leavenworth has reworked their popular summertime Timber! Outdoor Musical Festival to Timbrrr - its winter equivalent. Join friends (21+ only) at the Leavenworth Festalle from Jan. 24 to Jan. 25 for two-days filled with music and wintertime fun. Performers will include national and local acts playing everything from indie rock to hip hop. In addition there will be free programming suitable for all ages at LOGE, Icicle Brewing Company, Munchen Haus and Rhein Haus. Along with great live music, there will be wine tastings and a Hot Toddy Garden. There is truly something for everyone at this not-to-be-missed event that will certainly be the highlight of your winter season. Purchase your tickets now and check out the Timbrrr schedule online!
 

Waterfront Park Trail Snowshoe Tours

This winter season take a stroll down the Waterfront Park Trail, not in your boots, but on snowshoes! This one-of-a-kind event takes place every Thursday in January and February from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., and while drop-ins are welcome, reservations are appreciated. The Wenatchee River Institute organizes the snowshoe strolls and a local naturalist guide takes tour groups through the Waterfront Park Trail that meander alongside the amazingly crystal clear waters of the Wenatchee River. Snowshoes are provided and this tour is free for participants! You can make reservations over the phone or email the organizer directly. 
 

Woodworkers Guild Exhibition 

You can peruse and admire woodwork created by talented amateur and professional artisans, as represented by the NCW Woodworkers Guild, on January 25 and 26 at the Pybus Public Market! The Guild, which is comprised of local furniture and cabinet makers, will be displaying a variety of their projects in the center concourse. Be inspired by a wide range of fine woodworks, including an ebony cribbage board with a mother-of-pearl inlay, a tool cabinet made of tiger wood with various wood inlays, special reading lamps and much more. In addition to the exhibits, nationally recognized woodworker Autumn Doucet will be on hand to demonstrate her carving skills in person! Admission to this exhibition is free. All the details you'll need can be found at pybuspublicmarket.org.

When you visit Leavenworth, WA in winter, you can discover the charm of this town through its' attractions, architecture, cuisine, and through the events it hosts such as music festivals, exhibitions and guided tours that explore beautiful spots off the beaten path. The Der Ritterhof Inn is located just two blocks away from the Bavarian Village center so you’re close to the all the best that Leavenworth offers visitors. Book your stay for superbly comfortable, Bavarian-inspired accommodations that include premium quality bedding, 50-inch LED TV with cable, a balcony or patio for each unit, and a heated outdoor pool. Make it a point to meet our 25-foot tall mascot, the Knight, that stands guard over our hotel. Make your reservations with us today!

Nutcracker Hunts at the Nutcracker Museum

Leavenworth Village of Lights & Christmas Lighting Festival

There’s really no bad time to visit Leavenworth. Whenever you’re here, you’ll find that there’s charm and fun to be had around every corner. If you bring a sense of adventure and a willingness to have a good time, then you’ll find that you’re handsomely rewarded during your trip. And that’s as true for October as it is any other time. Indeed, there’s a special magic in October, when things are a little chillier, and the crowds a little fewer. Below, we take a look at a few must-do things while you’re here.


Source: Pixabay

Take a walk

There’s nothing better than putting on some hiking boots and enjoying a short walk in the cool fall air, especially if the sun is shining. When you visit Leavenworth, you’ll have a whole host of outstanding walks on your doorstep. Whether you fancy a brisk 1-hour trek or a longer hike, you’ll get to enjoy the beauty that’s all around. 

Check our local harvests

Fall is an excellent time to get your fill of those delicious seasonal fruits and vegetables. Food won’t have tasted any better than when it has been bought from a local market. Hit one of the weekly markets, get your supplies for the day, and get exploring.

Get adventurous 

There are fewer people in October, which means it’s a great time to throw caution to the wind and get exploring all that the town has to offer. Dress up warm, and hit the streets! 

Round off your visit by staying at the best hotel in Leavenworth. At the Der Ritterhof Inn, you can choose from a range of room types, so you can find the space that’s perfect for your needs. You’ll also be able to enjoy amenities that include a complimentary breakfast, free Wifi, and pet-friendly rooms, too, so you can bring your pooch with you. 

Wenatchee River Salmon Festival | September 21

Autumn Leaf Festival | September 27-29

Oktoberfest | October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19

Image By: Kosala Bandara

 

Don’t let Winter slip away! Have some fun at Stevens Pass Ski Resort before the snow melts this new year.

 

Ski, Snowboard, or Tub!

Stevens Pass offers a variety of different ski slopes ranging from beginner Green to expert Black Diamonds. You’ll have access to rental skis, snowboards, and snow gear so if you didn’t come prepared, not to worry! Stevens Pass has employees stations around the mountain to assure your safety is a top priority. Don’t know how to ski or snowboard? Not a problem, ski and snowboard lessons are taught by a variety of trained instructors who are patient and understanding of the learning process. For those who don’t wish to ski or snowboard can still join in on the fun with our tubing slopes!

 

Enjoyable for All Ages

All ages and skillsets are welcome to enjoy the slopes at Stevens Pass. Prices for lift tickets, lessons and rentals can be found on the Stevens Pass website.  Der Ritterhof Inn has teamed up with Stevens Pass to offer deals on lift tickets when you book a Leavenworth Ski & Stay package. This program runs until April 2019. Please contact hotel for more details.

Stevens Pass Ski Resort is a 40-minute drive from us at Der Ritterhof Inn. We offer our guests a unique experience with medieval themed rooms, home-cooked meals with ingredients fresh from our gardens, and friendly staff here to assist your every need! Book today to take advantage of our Leavenworth Ski & Stay package which gives you deals on Stevens Pass ski resort.   

Photo by Gellinger.

Go traditional this holiday season in Leavenworth!  Tucked away in the Cascade Mountains but closely tied to its Bavarian roots, the holiday events happening this month are one-of-a-kind: 

Christkindlmarkt 2018

Experience a traditional Bavarian-style Christmas market with authentic Bavarian foods, handmade arts and crafts, gifts and entertainment. Bring the family to see a lantern parade and catch a glimpse of Santa Claus (and the Christkind and St. Nicholas too!). The Market will run from November 23 to 25 in the heart of downtown Leavenworth. Be sure to double check times online so you don’t miss the chance to ring in the season in traditional Bavarian style! 

Kids’ Nutcracker Hunts

If you’re going to visit Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, time it during one of the kids' nutcracker hunts! The Nutcracker Lady creates special “Nutcracker Hunts” where visitors are asked to roam about the museum hunting for specific Nutcrackers outlined on a list. This activity is not only limited to kids! But be warned, the list gets longer and the hunt gets harder for adults. Running from 1 pm to 4 pm, regular museum admission rates apply. 

Christmas Lighting Festival 2018

There’s nothing more magical than holiday lights sparkling amidst freshly fallen snow. Our quaint Bavarian town becomes a Village of Lights and could even put a smile on the Grinch’s face. Holiday songs delight your ears, chestnuts roast on a fire, and visitors can try sledding in Front Street Park or sip on traditional hot spiced wine and cocoa. The festival runs on November 30, and select weekends in December including Dec. 1-2, 7-9, and 14-16 but the lights are turned on every night from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s weekend! 

In addition to all the events above, Der Ritterhof and Stevens Pass Washington Ski Resort have teamed up to put together a great program that is sure to attract winter powder hounds to our Bavarian Getaway throughout the winter season. You save on lift tickets when you book a Leavenworth Ski and Stay Package anytime during the season, including weekends and holidays! The program begins December 17, 2018 and goes through April 14th, 2019. Call us at 509-548-5845 or toll free 1-800-255-5845 for more detail. 

Our hotel is located just two blocks away from the Bavarian Village center so you’re always close to the holiday action. Book your stay for a unique holiday experience today! 

It doesn’t matter what time of the year you’re visiting Leavenworth: you’ll always find something fun and exciting going on! And if you’re planning on visiting during the end of October and through November, then you’ll have a chance to explore a wide range of activities that showcase just how fun a trip to Leavenworth can be. Coming up we have the final chance to buy local goods, a wellness program that’ll take care of your body and mind, and the return of one of the world’s best outdoor film festivals.


Source: Magda Ehlers

Fresh and unique goods

The Pybus Public Market is more than just a chance to do a bit of shopping; it’s an opportunity to get involved in a community staple, and enjoy life in the region from the inside. But also, you will have a great chance to pick up some goods! There’ll be farmers offering their produce, artisans offering their crafts, and live music to serenade you as you shop. The last one takes place on the last Saturday in October.

For the mind and body

Head down to Beyoutiful Hot Yoga on November 3, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and energized. During the event,  you’ll go through a guided meditation session, and then learn how to make your own mala beads. A relaxing, life-affirming way to spend the day.

Mountain movies

If you love the outdoors, then don’t miss the Banff Mountain Film Festival 2018 show, which will take place at Leavenworth Festhalle on November 20. They consistently show the best outdoor films in the world; you won’t be disappointed!

There’s only one place to stay during your trip: Der Ritterhof, the best hotel in Leavenworth. As well as receiving comfortable, spacious accommodations, you’ll also benefit from a host of amenities that include a free breakfast, complimentary parking, and high speed wifi throughout the hotel.

 
Image taken by Caroline Attwood

Leavenworth is a town known for their wine and Bavarian culture but there is a lot more happening next month to celebrate the end of the summer.  
 

My Fair Lady

The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain… or in this case, Leavenworth! Starting July 18^th 2018, Leavenworth’s Summer Theatre will be doing performances of the well-known musical, My Fair Lady at Hatchery Park Stage at 8:00 PM until the end of August! Check their website to order tickets and the times and dates of when they will be performing.
 

Outdoor Movies

Nothing is better than watching an outdoor movie in the summer. In August, Logecamps will be hosting outdoor movies every Friday, including documentaries such as Chasing Ice and Step Into Liquid! Make sure to grab some blankets and snacks to stay comfortable while watching a movie outside. The best part is that it’s great for the whole family (including pets) and it’s free too! For more information on what movies will be playing on each Friday, check out the Logecamps website to get all the information.
 

Cook with a Top Chef

Want to learn some new dishes from a chef with 25 years of experience? Come to Mana Restaurant to meet Colin! On August 9^th, he will be hosting a cooking class for $55 at the restaurant and everybody is invited! Don’t worry if you have any dietary restrictions because you will learn how to create flavours that will satisfy just about anybody! Make sure to reserve your spot now on the Mana Restaurant website before tickets run out.
 
If you will be stopping by at any of these events then you will want to stay at Der Ritterhof. The perfect location that’s comfortable, convenient and most importantly, pet-friendly which is perfect especially if you decide to bring your pet with you to the outdoor movies!