Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery

I would give zero stars if I could. The manager/owner’s condescending, unprofessional behavior was appalling. Two adults booked two nights for this past weekend. Only a room with one queen bed was available for both nights in a row, which was fine. We tried calling several times in the days before arriving, but nobody answered. After we got there, we asked a few times at the front desk about a larger room and possibly a second room for another couple who decided to join us. We checked in with the desk throughout the day to make sure the other couple would be taken care of. When they arrived, we put their bags in our room briefly while greeting them. As they headed to the front desk before 9 p.m., the manager greeted us rudely, assumed they were unregistered guests, and told them security was coming and they had to leave. She never spoke to us, the paying registered guests, first. I went to the desk to understand the problem and was again greeted rudely and scolded. While I tried to understand her frustration and explain our plan, she belittled us simply because we booked through Expedia. The front desk staff lied to my face about a rate she had offered us earlier for the second room. What sealed it was the owner telling us to our faces that she would prefer if we just left. If being judged, watched on cameras, harassed and belittled sounds good, this is the place for you.

We stayed over the May long weekend, and there were only two other guests in the entire hotel when we arrived. For one of the busiest weekends of the year, that should have been a warning sign. The place felt more like a retirement home than a hotel. Management was extremely condescending and repeatedly said security was watching us, leaving us uncomfortable and unwelcome. I won't list every rude, presumptive and unprofessional interaction. Save yourself the frustration and stay somewhere else.

The staff made our wedding day special. Erin and her team were responsive, creative, professional, helpful and accommodating, and they handled the unexpected beautifully. They let us decorate the day before and clean up the morning after, so we didn't feel rushed or stressed on the day itself. The venue is gorgeous, with lovely outdoor ceremony space and indoor options if it rains, plus easy access to the winery, forest and beach for photos. We barely needed decorations beyond flowers. The food was excellent, dietary requests like gluten-free and vegan were easy to arrange, and our guests had lots of compliments, especially about the chicken. We can't recommend Hessenland highly enough as a wedding venue.

The old-school charm and history give this place something special. I stayed at Hessenland for a night and had a great time. The room was clean and comfortable, check-in was easy, and the staff were friendly and hospitable. I toured the Schatz Winery and really enjoyed the refined wines. I brought home a couple of bottles and especially recommend the 2019 Rusty Petite Pearl Reserve. I also had the pleasure of meeting owners Liz and Frank, and could see their passion and drive in running this multifaceted business.