According to October reporting from the U.S. Travel Association, “32% of American travelers indicate leisure travel will be a high budget priority in the next three months.” Is that you? It’s definitely us! As we head into the holiday season consider adding a weekend getaway to the mix as either part of your holiday travel or post-holiday recovery. Because whew, holidays.
We’ve done the heavy lifting to save you further stress this season. Choose from any one of these 11 places to stay when you want to get away from it all, based on your interest, of course. Indulge …
Award Winning Luxury
The Georges in downtown Lexington is once again expanding, a boon for any traveler trying to secure a stay at this highly sought property. With a collection of 21 unique rooms across four historic buildings, you’ll be able to enjoy something different each time you visit. Every room includes Frette linens, gorgeous bathrooms (some with soaker tubs), Gilchrist & Soames amenities, and more. Comfort is a close second behind the top-notch hospitality provided.
Dining on site at Haywood’s and TAPS
A Travel + Leisure World’s Best Hotel (2020 & 2021)
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Authentic Timber Frame Cabins
Shadow Mountain Escape in Luray is a collection of timber frame cabins styled in the German tradition. The owners created their structures with privacy in mind. Each accommodation is well appointed and cell service is spotty. Put the phone down and enjoy what’s in front of you: your partner and the great outdoors. Shadow Mountain Escape borders Shenandoah National Park and is a short drive into Luray. Stock up a few necessities to prepare your own meals for a “we never had to leave” experience.
In December only, choose a Winter Delight package for a sample of the traditional German Christmas market experience.
The Best B&B Experience
Fanciful, beautiful, and incredibly tasty, L’Auberge Provencale in White Post sets the standard for a bed and breakfast getaway in the Shenandoah Valley. Choose from 11 distinct guest rooms and suites or from three others at their Villa La Campagnette nearby. Some accommodations offer fireplaces while others have aromatherapy steam showers; some offer both. Do not skip the dining at L’Auberge Provencale. Make a reservation for La Table Provencale Restaurant; you will not be disappointed.
Book two midweek nights this holiday season and get 15% off your stay.
L’Auberge Provencale is a AAA Four Diamond Award winner.
L’Auberge Provencale
The Grand Dame
A gem of the South is Hotel 24 South in downtown Staunton. Its story begins in 1924 and a great amount of its original glory remains for today’s travelers to enjoy. The expansive two-story lobby is a pleasurable place to unwind after drinks at The 1924 Lounge, just steps away. Comfortable rooms with pillow top mattresses ensure a peaceful night of rest.
Hotel 24 South was awarded a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2022.
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Boutique Elegance
Guests are entranced with the unexpected details of The Blackburn Inn in downtown Staunton. Dating to 1828, the property lends itself to a multitude of room designs, each featuring rainfall showers and soaring 12-foot ceilings. Indulge in a visit to the Spa at The Blackburn – a hidden gem offering tranquility and rejuvenation. Enjoy a meal and drinks at Second Draft Bistro, a “hyperlocal” on-site option featuring craft beers, ciders, and wine.
Book the S’more Fun Package to score your own patio fire pit and all the necessities for s’mores. Pairs well with a Reisling.
The Blackburn Inn by Aaron Watson Photography
A Flagship Stay
The George Washington Hotel in Winchester is a Wyndham Grand Hotel, an opulent Georgian Revival with a relaxing indoor pool styled after the Roman baths. Ninety rooms and suites offer comfort and room to spread out, if you so desire. Dine on-site at George’s Food & Spirits or sip drinks while musicians sing at the Half Note Lounge. If you’re too cozy to bother with getting dressed, room service is an excellent option.
The George Washington Hotel is a Best of Wyndham Grand hotel and the Wyndham Grand Hotel of the Year.
George Washington Hotel – The Roman Bath Indoor Pool
Magical Healing Waters
No joke, the hot mineral waters of Capon Springs and Farms in High View, West Virginia seem to be magical and healing. Book a private soaking room for yourself and your loved one when you choose to spend a few nights at this all-inclusive mountain resort. Unfortunately, Capon Springs is a seasonal resort and just closed November 6. Your weekend escape to this gem will wait until spring, but it will be SO worth it. Go ahead and dream of which of the 14 cottages you want to relax in.
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Vintage Southern Hospitality
Perched on a knoll above downtown Luray is the Mimslyn Inn, an historic hotel with an inviting façade, plush lobby, and even better rooms and dining. The historic rooms and suites feature warm, inviting colors and traditional furnishings. Additional accommodations include the Manor House (reservable for up to 16 guests) and seven stand-alone cottages perfect for couples or families. Back at the Mimslyn proper, there are two dining options: Circa ’31 and the Speakeasy Restaurant and Bar.
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One-of-a-Kind Stay
The Shenandoah Yurt in Stanley is more than you’ll expect, and you may not want to leave. We can’t blame you. It’s private, warm, and wonderful with so many amenities. Do you drive an electric vehicle? They have a charging station waiting. Love video games after a long soak in the hot tub? Top consoles await. Want to take a bike ride? eBike rentals are available to get you to Shenandoah National Park and beyond. Long term stays are available (wink, wink).
Shenandoah Yurt
Cottages in the Woods
Montfair Resort Farm in Crozet offers nine equipped cottages with climate control, stocked kitchenette, and local coffee and teas to get you started in the morning. Head out on the trails or enjoy the view by the lake. The seasonal reflections on the still water are breathtaking in every season.
Stay at the Highest Elevation
Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park seems to sit atop the world; you will love the view! The season closes at Skyland November 27, so get your stay in quickly lest you wait until April 2023 to score a reprieve on high. A long spread of rooms and detached cabins – some pet-friendly – welcome couples and families alike. Dine at Skyland’s Pollock Dining Room where delicious Brunswick Stew warms from the inside out.
Skyland Resort
Where will you book first? We challenge you to try each one, rolling the fun over into 2023 and beyond!
Header image courtesy of Shadow Mountain Escape.