| Nestled in the quiet beauty of the "Silent Forest" just east of St. Louis in rural Aviston, Illinois, Hidden Lake Winery welcomes visitors with a rolling vineyard, beautiful lake view, waterfalls, rustic banquet center and fine causal dining. |
| |||||||||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |
My husband and I went to Silent Forest Cabins for our
anniversary. We found it topnotch! The cabin was very
comfortable with a king size bed and a wonderful jacuzzi
along with a little kitchen nook that has a microwave and
mini-frig. What more can you ask for? It was tucked into
the woods which made a cozy, leisurely atmosphere that
my husband and I definitely needed. We also visited the
Hidden Lake winery and the Bar and Grill that is located
there. Their wines are excellent and we enjoyed browsing
the different and unique labels. Friday night was all you
can eat crab legs at the Bar and Grill. The food and
service were excellent!! The atmosphere and ambiance
were wonderful. We enjoyed our time there immensely
and will definitely recommend it to others!!
Submitted 3/16/2010 by Liesure 62
anniversary. We found it topnotch! The cabin was very
comfortable with a king size bed and a wonderful jacuzzi
along with a little kitchen nook that has a microwave and
mini-frig. What more can you ask for? It was tucked into
the woods which made a cozy, leisurely atmosphere that
my husband and I definitely needed. We also visited the
Hidden Lake winery and the Bar and Grill that is located
there. Their wines are excellent and we enjoyed browsing
the different and unique labels. Friday night was all you
can eat crab legs at the Bar and Grill. The food and
service were excellent!! The atmosphere and ambiance
were wonderful. We enjoyed our time there immensely
and will definitely recommend it to others!!
Submitted 3/16/2010 by Liesure 62
First of all thank you to my wife for planning a beautiful anniversary weekend here at Silent Forest.
I'd like to also start by expressing my gratitude to the staff at Silent Forest. Doug, Amanda and Gabe(sp) among
others behind the scenes truly made the experience well worth the long weekend.
I won't go into a play-by-play, but I will say that this retreat is perfect for those that live in the metro east or even in
St. Louis. It's about a 30 minute drive from the Scott AFB exit. My only gripe is the place might not be easy for
people to find in the dark. Better signage would remedy this problem.
Once on the retreat grounds, I was impressed with the simple yet comfortable cabin quarters. Equipped with a
massive jacuzzi tub, gas fire place, DirectTV, king sized bed with a futon sitting area and a fridge, I was quite
surprised at the amenities for such a small place. The cabin was clean and orderly and was a very nice home
away from home for the weekend. The only real negative about the cabin is the heat/cooling system. It is a wall
unit that sits up high on the wall next to the bed. I found myself paying more attention to making sure it was warm
in the room than I was paying attention to my wife. Bad news. I hope they find a more user friendly/efficient
heating/cooling mechanism before the next time we head down there. Fortunately, it wasn't freezing outside...I can
see that being an issue. Also, I'll just mention the satellite went out on us several times, but because we were on a
'retreat', i really didn't find a reason to complain to management about it. It was cloudy and raining that weekend,
so they get a pass.
The other parts of the retreat were pretty much closed off for the winter...(i.e lake, waterfall, vineyard..etc), which
was fine because it was kind of damp and dreary the whole weekend anyway. So instead, we spent time getting to
know the staff. I would have to say that the staff was probably the most friendly I have seen in quite sometime
here in Illinois. Amanda, you were awesome. We wish we had more time to hang out and get to know you. I hope
you are there when we come back to see you guys. Doug was great...you went above and beyond for to ensure
every need was met during our stay. We hope to see you again as well....don't work yourself to hard. Gabe(sp)
was such a well-mannered young man. We hope you continue to pursue everything life as for you. Continue to
work hard and give people your best....great things will be coming your way with that attitude.
The restaurant and winery are the only other things that we can comment on. In short, the restaurant is simple,
clean and comfortable. I wouldn't say it's a five star, but for the location and the resources, they did their best to
make sure you enjoy a pleasant evening whatever the occasion may be. The wine tasting was our first, and we
thank Amanda for making it and enjoyable experience for us. We recommend trying some of the semi-sweet wine
if that's what you are into. It's local and affordable.
All in all, I highly recommend a weekend stay at this retreat to couples both married and dating. You will enjoy the
quiet time and seclusion. Thank you again to Dale in his staff for the wonderful experience.
BTW...don't forget the Sunday brunch if you stay the weekend....it's well worth it.
Submitted by nacho lovers on 02/10/10
I'd like to also start by expressing my gratitude to the staff at Silent Forest. Doug, Amanda and Gabe(sp) among
others behind the scenes truly made the experience well worth the long weekend.
I won't go into a play-by-play, but I will say that this retreat is perfect for those that live in the metro east or even in
St. Louis. It's about a 30 minute drive from the Scott AFB exit. My only gripe is the place might not be easy for
people to find in the dark. Better signage would remedy this problem.
Once on the retreat grounds, I was impressed with the simple yet comfortable cabin quarters. Equipped with a
massive jacuzzi tub, gas fire place, DirectTV, king sized bed with a futon sitting area and a fridge, I was quite
surprised at the amenities for such a small place. The cabin was clean and orderly and was a very nice home
away from home for the weekend. The only real negative about the cabin is the heat/cooling system. It is a wall
unit that sits up high on the wall next to the bed. I found myself paying more attention to making sure it was warm
in the room than I was paying attention to my wife. Bad news. I hope they find a more user friendly/efficient
heating/cooling mechanism before the next time we head down there. Fortunately, it wasn't freezing outside...I can
see that being an issue. Also, I'll just mention the satellite went out on us several times, but because we were on a
'retreat', i really didn't find a reason to complain to management about it. It was cloudy and raining that weekend,
so they get a pass.
The other parts of the retreat were pretty much closed off for the winter...(i.e lake, waterfall, vineyard..etc), which
was fine because it was kind of damp and dreary the whole weekend anyway. So instead, we spent time getting to
know the staff. I would have to say that the staff was probably the most friendly I have seen in quite sometime
here in Illinois. Amanda, you were awesome. We wish we had more time to hang out and get to know you. I hope
you are there when we come back to see you guys. Doug was great...you went above and beyond for to ensure
every need was met during our stay. We hope to see you again as well....don't work yourself to hard. Gabe(sp)
was such a well-mannered young man. We hope you continue to pursue everything life as for you. Continue to
work hard and give people your best....great things will be coming your way with that attitude.
The restaurant and winery are the only other things that we can comment on. In short, the restaurant is simple,
clean and comfortable. I wouldn't say it's a five star, but for the location and the resources, they did their best to
make sure you enjoy a pleasant evening whatever the occasion may be. The wine tasting was our first, and we
thank Amanda for making it and enjoyable experience for us. We recommend trying some of the semi-sweet wine
if that's what you are into. It's local and affordable.
All in all, I highly recommend a weekend stay at this retreat to couples both married and dating. You will enjoy the
quiet time and seclusion. Thank you again to Dale in his staff for the wonderful experience.
BTW...don't forget the Sunday brunch if you stay the weekend....it's well worth it.
Submitted by nacho lovers on 02/10/10
Absolutely breathtaking scenery
by Terry Siems at Citysearch
A group of six of us decided to take a ride
out to the winery yesterday, despite the poor
reviews. We went for the Sunday
brunch--the food and the staff were
wonderful and very attentive. Then we
secured a lakeside table and went up to do
some wine tasting. That's where we ran into
alittle bit of a problem. The staff there
seemed unorganized and overwhelmed. It
took about a half hour to taste 6 samples
and then another at least 10 minutes to
purchase a bottle. We didn't let this deter us
from having a good time, enjoy fantastic
wine, beautiful scenery and a great "wine
trail". We will definately return and bring
others with us.
by Terry Siems at Citysearch
A group of six of us decided to take a ride
out to the winery yesterday, despite the poor
reviews. We went for the Sunday
brunch--the food and the staff were
wonderful and very attentive. Then we
secured a lakeside table and went up to do
some wine tasting. That's where we ran into
alittle bit of a problem. The staff there
seemed unorganized and overwhelmed. It
took about a half hour to taste 6 samples
and then another at least 10 minutes to
purchase a bottle. We didn't let this deter us
from having a good time, enjoy fantastic
wine, beautiful scenery and a great "wine
trail". We will definately return and bring
others with us.
Romantic Atmosphere
Tara A. | Insider Expert | Rank: 5,417 4
Hidden Lake Winery
This is a romantic atmosphere with a
waterfall. They have newly constructed
cabins if you choose to spend the
night. It would be beautiful for a
wedding reception. The wine is very
good and the food is delicious. It is in a
remote setting but well worth the trip.
Tara A. | Insider Expert | Rank: 5,417 4
Hidden Lake Winery
This is a romantic atmosphere with a
waterfall. They have newly constructed
cabins if you choose to spend the
night. It would be beautiful for a
wedding reception. The wine is very
good and the food is delicious. It is in a
remote setting but well worth the trip.
I stayed the 21 and 22 of January 2009, as a matter of fact I'm still
here! I couldn't wait til we left to tell everyone how wonderful this
place i so writing this review from their amazing lodge. I had read
the previous rewiews and heard first hand accounts from past
guests. Despite the vary rare negative (only a 2 total from here)
we thought we'd give it a try, WOW!!! 1st of all the cabin was
amazing, we stayed in the honeymoon cabin and things were
great, from the satellite tv, pillow top matress, to the heart shaped
jacuzzi tub. We were treated as royalty by the staff who went
above and beyond the call of duty, even staying on the phone
with us until we reached the amazing resturant they reccomended
(which was also more than spectacular "Popeye's chop house" a
five star resturant with a three star name"). The management was
the best making sure we were completely comfortable during our
stay. While we were here we ran into no trouble, I had an amazing
time and would reccomend this place to any new couples, married
coupled, or anyone looking to just escape for the weekend, or
week if you're that lucky. Overall a 6 out of 5, the extra one is my
tip. If you see Doug make sure to tell him hello, and enjoy your
stay at the best little get away from home that's not to far from
home.
here! I couldn't wait til we left to tell everyone how wonderful this
place i so writing this review from their amazing lodge. I had read
the previous rewiews and heard first hand accounts from past
guests. Despite the vary rare negative (only a 2 total from here)
we thought we'd give it a try, WOW!!! 1st of all the cabin was
amazing, we stayed in the honeymoon cabin and things were
great, from the satellite tv, pillow top matress, to the heart shaped
jacuzzi tub. We were treated as royalty by the staff who went
above and beyond the call of duty, even staying on the phone
with us until we reached the amazing resturant they reccomended
(which was also more than spectacular "Popeye's chop house" a
five star resturant with a three star name"). The management was
the best making sure we were completely comfortable during our
stay. While we were here we ran into no trouble, I had an amazing
time and would reccomend this place to any new couples, married
coupled, or anyone looking to just escape for the weekend, or
week if you're that lucky. Overall a 6 out of 5, the extra one is my
tip. If you see Doug make sure to tell him hello, and enjoy your
stay at the best little get away from home that's not to far from
home.
by Happy Customer 07/12/2009
This is a charming place you should
really take the time to visit. It has a
laid-back, tranquil environment and the
property views are lovely. My husband
and I were there for his sister's wedding
reception and really enjoyed ourselves.
When the reception ended, we joined
the festivities outside and were delighted
to continue with our beverages and
enjoyed the live music. We stayed
overnight in a cabin mentioned on the
website and it was immaculately clean
and had everything you might need. We
live in St. Louis and while the Augusta
Wineries are a bit closer, Hidden Lake is
worth the extra 15 minutes and a much
safer drive than curvy Hwy 94. You will
enjoy your day if you visit Hidden Lake
Winery.
This is a charming place you should
really take the time to visit. It has a
laid-back, tranquil environment and the
property views are lovely. My husband
and I were there for his sister's wedding
reception and really enjoyed ourselves.
When the reception ended, we joined
the festivities outside and were delighted
to continue with our beverages and
enjoyed the live music. We stayed
overnight in a cabin mentioned on the
website and it was immaculately clean
and had everything you might need. We
live in St. Louis and while the Augusta
Wineries are a bit closer, Hidden Lake is
worth the extra 15 minutes and a much
safer drive than curvy Hwy 94. You will
enjoy your day if you visit Hidden Lake
Winery.
by BikeintheCorn 06/10/2007
daughters wedding: Amazing!!! The staff went
above and beyond, excedeing all our
expectations. I'd say there maybe 2 little
glitches and Susie took care of those so well
that they were not even factors. Everyone
was friendly, happy, and polite. I was honestly
overwhelmed with thier efforts. The owners
were so kind and gracious as to allow my
daughter and her party to dress in thier
house, which was a big relief. This is the
place to have your wedding and reception!
The price was great, the food was delicious.
Their efforts went a long way towards making
that day a day I shall cherish all my life!!!
daughters wedding: Amazing!!! The staff went
above and beyond, excedeing all our
expectations. I'd say there maybe 2 little
glitches and Susie took care of those so well
that they were not even factors. Everyone
was friendly, happy, and polite. I was honestly
overwhelmed with thier efforts. The owners
were so kind and gracious as to allow my
daughter and her party to dress in thier
house, which was a big relief. This is the
place to have your wedding and reception!
The price was great, the food was delicious.
Their efforts went a long way towards making
that day a day I shall cherish all my life!!!
I was completely taken away when I read the other review. This
must have been a disgruntled ex-employee. I've visited Hidden
Lake at least 5 times and every time we were completely
satisfied. The grounds are beautiful, the staff was very helpful,
even spoke to the owner who took time out to see if we were
enjoying ourselves. The food was great and highly recommend
visiting here, it is a beautiful place tucked away. 5 stars!!
December 14, 2009 by AJ in Highland, IL
must have been a disgruntled ex-employee. I've visited Hidden
Lake at least 5 times and every time we were completely
satisfied. The grounds are beautiful, the staff was very helpful,
even spoke to the owner who took time out to see if we were
enjoying ourselves. The food was great and highly recommend
visiting here, it is a beautiful place tucked away. 5 stars!!
December 14, 2009 by AJ in Highland, IL
My girlfriend and I stayed in one of the cabins the
weekend of November 7, 2009. After only seeing
pictures of the cabins online, and knowing that things
usually look better online than they do in person, I was
pleasantly surprised. The pictures hardly do the cabins
justice. The cabin was very clean and well thought out.
The robes that are provided were comfortable and
warm. The bed was very comfortable and inviting.
My only complaint, and it is a small one, is the check in
process. We checked in on a Saturday and there were
quite a few people in the lodge for wine tasting. We had
to wait a little longer than expected to get checked in to
our cabin.
I was able to speak to the manager the following
Monday and he was very gracious and offered his
appologies. A very nice gentleman to speak with and I
look forward to meeting him on my next stay. Yes, I will
most certainly be back.
weekend of November 7, 2009. After only seeing
pictures of the cabins online, and knowing that things
usually look better online than they do in person, I was
pleasantly surprised. The pictures hardly do the cabins
justice. The cabin was very clean and well thought out.
The robes that are provided were comfortable and
warm. The bed was very comfortable and inviting.
My only complaint, and it is a small one, is the check in
process. We checked in on a Saturday and there were
quite a few people in the lodge for wine tasting. We had
to wait a little longer than expected to get checked in to
our cabin.
I was able to speak to the manager the following
Monday and he was very gracious and offered his
appologies. A very nice gentleman to speak with and I
look forward to meeting him on my next stay. Yes, I will
most certainly be back.
My future wife and I have been to Hidden Lake
Winery many times. We spent our 1 yr Anniversary
there & stayed in there Silent Forest Retreat
Cabins. They are amazing to say the least. This
year for our Anniversary, I decided to take her
there again, & this time propose!!!!! The Inn
keeper, Doug, gave us Excellent service and went
over and above to make sure that we had an
Amazing engagement weekend. The country
atmosphere is great. Servise is even better. If
you've never been... It's a MUST SEE! My future
wife & I will return for years to come. It truly is a
great retreat from the real world, & trust me..... A
great place to get engaged &, or married. Thank
you from the bottom of my heart , to Silent Forest
Retreat Cabins & Hidden Lake Winery for making
the best weekend of my life, to date, even more
special! Chris Etling
Winery many times. We spent our 1 yr Anniversary
there & stayed in there Silent Forest Retreat
Cabins. They are amazing to say the least. This
year for our Anniversary, I decided to take her
there again, & this time propose!!!!! The Inn
keeper, Doug, gave us Excellent service and went
over and above to make sure that we had an
Amazing engagement weekend. The country
atmosphere is great. Servise is even better. If
you've never been... It's a MUST SEE! My future
wife & I will return for years to come. It truly is a
great retreat from the real world, & trust me..... A
great place to get engaged &, or married. Thank
you from the bottom of my heart , to Silent Forest
Retreat Cabins & Hidden Lake Winery for making
the best weekend of my life, to date, even more
special! Chris Etling