Finding Home in the Holler: Appalachian Hospitality at Snug Hollow with Ryan Joseph Allen

Discovering Snug Hollow: A Journey of Community, Nature, and Appalachian Roots

Hey y’all, I’m Dan, and welcome back to Kinfolk: Stories of Community and Connection. In this special episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ryan Joseph Allen, innkeeper of Snug Hollow Bed and Breakfast in Irvine, Kentucky. Ryan is our first out-of-state guest, and he shared an incredible journey of building a life rooted in Appalachian values, from his work in nonprofit leadership to becoming an innkeeper of a beautiful retreat that spans over acres of rolling hills.

A Place to Reconnect with Nature

Snug Hollow Bed and Breakfast isn’t just any getaway it’s a serene escape where you can experience true Appalachian hospitality. With miles of trails, cozy cabins, and vegetarian Southern-style cuisine, Ryan and his partner Will have created a space where visitors can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. As Ryan put it, “It’s like going to your fancy grandma’s house in the holler.” From family reunions to girlfriend getaways, Snug Hollow offers a wide range of experiences for everyone. They even provide mobility-friendly tours of the property, making sure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the holler. Ryan shared how they recently gave a 93-year-old guest her first tour of the grounds, which had a profound impact on both her and the team at Snug Hollow.

The Appalachian Dream

What makes Snug Hollow so special is the intention behind it. Ryan and Will worked for two years to bring this dream to life, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. It wasn’t an easy road—they didn’t have the capital to simply buy the property. But thanks to Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), they were able to secure the funding and preserve the authenticity of the land. This dedication to keeping the heart of Appalachia intact is something Ryan is passionate about. He emphasized how important it is for places like Snug Hollow to remain in the hands of people who care deeply about the region, not big developers who may strip away its heritage. “We’re here to steward the land as it stewards us,” he said, reflecting on the deep respect he and Will have for the property and the Appalachian way of life.

More Than a Bed and Breakfast

Beyond providing a peaceful retreat, Ryan’s personal story of recovery from opioid addiction deeply resonated with me. Like so many in Appalachia, Ryan’s life was touched by the opioid crisis. His journey to sobriety and writing his book, My Drug Dealer Brought Me to God, highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. Ryan also shared the importance of reconnecting with the land and giving back to Appalachia. He encourages people to visit and support local businesses, not just for tourism’s sake, but to help revitalize a region that has given so much to the rest of the world from coal and timber to music and art.

Why You Should Visit Snug Hollow

Snug Hollow isn’t just about its beautiful setting it’s the full experience that makes it truly special. Here are some specific reasons you’ll want to visit:

• Hiking Trails: There are over 3 miles of hiking trails right on the property. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want a peaceful walk in nature, these trails offer something for everyone.

• Vegetarian Southern Cuisine: One of the most unique aspects of Snug Hollow is its focus on vegetarian Southern-style cuisine. Ryan and his team serve up hearty, farm-to-table meals that showcase fresh, local ingredients. A guest favorite is their braided rosemary bread. All meals are made with care, bringing comfort and flavor to your stay.

• Peace and Solitude: At Snug Hollow, you can truly do nothing, and that’s part of the beauty. Whether you choose to read a book in one of the quiet cabins, or simply enjoy the view, this place offers a peaceful retreat from the busyness of life.

• Labyrinth: The property also features a labyrinth, perfect for walking meditation or quiet reflection. It’s a place to reconnect with yourself as you follow the path in and out of the circle.

• Stunning Views Year-Round: Whether you visit in the fall when the leaves are bursting with color, in the winter when the snow blankets the cliffs, or in the spring and summer when wildflowers and greenery are in full bloom, the landscape at Snug Hollow is breathtaking in every season.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway where you can immerse yourself in nature, Snug Hollow offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. Ryan and his team have created a place where guests can relax, recharge, and reconnect with the land in a meaningful way.

Closing Thoughts

That wraps up my conversation with Ryan Joseph Allen. If you want to experience a place that embodies the spirit of Appalachia and offers both peace and adventure, visit Snug Hollow Bed and Breakfast. Whether it’s a peaceful retreat or a full-on adventure, Ryan and his team are there to make your stay special.