Ah, peace and tranquility. Seeking a life of simplicity and peace, a religious group known as the Shakers began building a utopian community in the unsettled early 1800s wilderness of what would later be called Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Though the Shakers no longer reside at the Village of Pleasant Hill, their peaceful spirit permeates the 3,000-acre property and the 34 carefully restored buildings there. Some dwellings are open to the public for tours while some are reserved for guests who choose to stay in the simple Shaker-style rooms of The Inn.
“Many visitors have commented about the feeling of peace, a sense of spirituality here,” said Aimee Darnell, publicist for Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. “They feel that the true experience comes when they stay overnight on a quiet, normal village night. Then it isn’t as crowded as the daytime, and the few overnight guests are spread out in many buildings throughout the property.”
During the day, tours led by costumed interpreters discuss life in the village in the mid-1800s, when it was a busy and prosperous community. Stop to enjoy a moving performance of Shaker music, watch skilled craftsman demonstrate the trade techniques that made Shaker workmanship famous and learn about the historic animal breeds and heirloom vegetables so important to Shaker agricultural practices and dining pleasures.
The simple, fresh organic foods that graced the dining tables of the Shaker community were well flavored with herbs and spices. Shaker desserts were — and are today — rich and delicious. Every visit to Shaker Village should include a meal at the Trustee’s Dining Room, which serves traditional Kentucky fare and many Shaker recipes.
As an extra treat, schedule time to enjoy a quiet riverboat tour on the Dixie Belle. The one-hour narrated cruises from nearby Shaker Landing include impressive views of the rugged natural beauty of the soaring limestone cliffs of the Kentucky River palisades.