Raise your hand if you have a cell phone or tablet within arm’s reach.

Raise your other hand if that device beeped, binged, or buzzed at some point in the last fifteen minutes.

How many of you have both hands in the air? I know I do (which makes it really hard to type this, by the way).

We sure love our technology, don’t we? But those devices can easily cross over from being technological aids to being electronic leashes. The bell goes off, and like Pavlov’s dogs we begin to salivate – or at least we stop whatever it is we’re doing and reach for the device.

That’s one of the great things about a getaway at Ravenwood Castle. We interrupt the devices before they can interrupt you!

Our beautiful remote location is surrounded by half a dozen state and national forests. That provides us with some absolutely amazing hiking, but it also means we’re one of the few places left where cell phones, television and internet service aren’t all pervasive.

With our growing dependence on these electronic leashes, it’s no surprise that people can occasionally be reluctant to disconnect. One of our favorite things is seeing the reactions that a few days of technology free recreation can elicit in our guests. Here’s just a few:

No WIFI and no cell service and no cable! I was terrified when we arrived and heard this information. Did I mention we had 6 kids with us! But the kids did great and it was really nice to actually “unplug” and enjoy each other. – Jesscruick, 03/18/14.

You probably won’t get any cell reception. We were a little nervous about that, but it turned out to be just what we needed. – Emily N., 02/09/14

With minimal cell phone reception at the castle…and no wifi, I appreciated completely unplugging and just enjoying our surroundings. – emmcd2011, 07/28/13

So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a place to play some great hobby board games, a cozy pub to relax in, or a mystery to solve, visit us at Ravenwood Castle. Enjoy some quality time with your family and friends, free of electronic interruptions.

Vacation unplugged. You’ll be glad you did!

Jim Reed

Jim Reed is a lifelong gamer who started with the original red box Dungeons & Dragons. After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he decided it was high time that work be fun and struck out on his own. Jim now owns and operates Ravenwood Castle, and spends his days ensuring his guests have as much fun as he does.