After a long Ohio winter, spring is now inviting us to enjoy the outdoors. The birds are returning to wake us up with their happy morning songs, flowers are popping up everywhere and the trees are bursting alive with brightly colored buds.
Guests visiting Gervasi Vineyard have access to some of the best scenery around. The winery resort is designed in grand style with magnificent, picturesque landscapes much like a Tuscan Village right out of Italy. It’s the perfect “Tuscan getaway” on a sprawling 55-acre estate, complete with wines, delectable cuisine and breathtaking views, a lake, swans, a wooden foot bridge and wonderfully kept walking paths and trails.
GV’s Outdoor Adventures
Celebrate Life at Gervasi Vineyard in one of the beautifully decorated restaurants: The Bistro, The Crush House Wine Bar & Eatery, The Still House cocktail lounge and bar, or the Piazza patio. Enjoy the many surrounding outdoor wonders and open-air activities available. According to various science and medical studies, being outdoors can improve your health and well-being in many ways such as:
- Lowering your blood pressure and reducing stress – Walking in nature can reduce the stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
- Improving mood and focus – Emotions such as anxiety, depression and anger are decreased while breathing in the fresh air.
- Helping us heal quicker and mitigating pain – Researchers have found that patients who spent time outdoors during their recovery required fewer painkillers.
- Enhancing creativity – One study found that backpackers scored 50 percent higher on creativity tests after spending a few days outside.
- Boosting your energy and immune system – Spending 20 minutes in the open air gives your brain an energy boost.
- Providing free aromatherapy – Stopping to smell the flowers and plants with natural scents like roses, freshly cut grass, and pine can make you feel calmer and more relaxed.
The Still House offers an outdoor patio overlooking the adjoining park trail where you can enjoy signature spirits, cocktails, draft beer, wine and a delectable menu of appetizers and shareable bites.
Or take in the view of the vineyard at sunset from the balcony of The Crush House, where you can also enjoy a casual lunch or dinner, and happy hour favorites.
During the spring and summer season, The Piazza patio is open for outdoor dining and fresh local cuisine along with Gervasi wines, wine slushies, and sangrias. Two bocce courts located by Lake Gervasi and nightly live entertainment make this venue the place to be when warmer weather arrives. Dogs are welcome every Tuesday for Pups on The Piazza, so bring your furry companions and relax in the sun.
Adirondack chairs are situated for guests to enjoy the view of the two lakes on the estate, where they are able to slow down and make unforgettable memories.
Stark Parks Middle Branch Trail
GV guests have access to the Middle Branch Trail maintained by Stark Parks. Visitors can hike, bike, walk, run or jog this 7.7-mile trail connecting local neighborhoods (with our without the furry pet). This mostly limestone trail is reinforced with asphalt in a few spots and follows along the Nimishillen Creek.
The trail connects Canton City Parks including Robert E. Schreiber Park, Reifsnyder Park, Oak Park, and Martindale Park. It continues north along the railroad tracks then meanders through Gervasi Vineyard and Rice’s Landscape.
“There is a lot to explore on the grounds of Gervasi and the communities around it using the Middle Branch Trail,” said Jared Shive, public relations coordinator for Stark Parks.
“Located on the east side of the property, you will find a few miles to hike or bike to other nearby destinations. Heading north on the limestone trail offers a quick view overlooking the [lake] at Gervasi before crossing 55th Street and heading into Veterans Park, a Plain Township Park with a dog park, splash pad, playground, disc golf course, and a veterans display,” said Shive. “The trail loops around Veterans Park with some inclines on the west side before crossing Schneider Street and continuing on the GlenOak High School campus. Another 1.6 miles loop will take you around the school and Stark County District Library-Plain Branch.”
Shive said the trail is limestone or asphalt with some shade, but mostly out in the sunshine. However far you decide to wander on the Middle Branch Trail around Gervasi, you’ll be met with scenic views of the vineyards, the natural surroundings of the property, and connections to neighboring communities and local destinations.
Get ready for a breath of fresh air the next time you visit Gervasi Vineyard. The ambience of dining and overnight stays combined with so much to do on the property makes for a relaxing and healthy way to celebrate spring and the great outdoors.
Sentieri felici (Happy Trails)!
