Hessenland Inn & Schatz Winery » 2021 Nominees

Steeped in history, Hessenland Inn marries two intriguing stories.  The first story belongs to the farm itself and dates back to the late 19th century when it was owned by the Bedard Family who were one of the first families to settle in the area.  The original Bedard farm house still stands today and is attached to the Inn’s main building.  In 1998 the farm’s barn was torn down to its original foundation and carefully restored to what is today, The Coach House.  This rustic yet elegant barn-like setting has become one of the most unique reception venues along Ontario’s West Coast.

The second story began in Germany, in the province of Hessen more than thirty years ago and belongs to Ernst and Christa Ihrig.  They dreamed of moving to Canada to open a business which combined their passion for hospitality with their hobby of horse breeding. While no longer in the business of breeding Hanovarian Horses, at one time Hessenland’s barns offered boarding to other horses, who would be seen grazing in the 30 acres of pastures and fields surrounding the Inn. Hessenland today now boasts expansive gardens, dining rooms,  accommodations, 5 acres of vineyard and the unique Coach House reception hall.

Today the Inn is run by the second generation of Ihrigs.  Frank (the eldest son of Ernst and Christa) has taken over the role of head chef and along his wife Liz, who manages the day to day operations alongside the Hessenland team.

In a continued passing of tradition, Frank and Liz’s son Sebastian now helps his parents with landscaping and gardening the beautiful grounds.