Exceeding Expectations
Submitted: August 19, 2012
Stayed: August 2012
Our family of five enjoyed a week in early August at this beautiful home, and found it an ideal vacation spot. The combination of a luxurious facility, with all the amenities one could ask for, and the beautiful, quiet, remote setting with views all around, was just what the doctor ordered. My husband and I have three children – ranging in ages from 6 to 12 – and they had a great time, too, very quickly claiming the upper level as the “Kids’ Zone”. With ping-pong and foosball tables, plenty of space, music, and an endless supply of very well organized books, it was little surprise they’d want to set up shop upstairs.
We were somewhat cautious about booking something sight unseen over the internet (first-time users), but we could not have been happier. The owners were a delight to work with from start to finish, and this property not only delivers on, but far exceeds, expectations. It is truly a gem.
The location is remote enough to be an escape, yet close enough to a variety of attractions, landmarks and hiking options to satisfy many interests and ages. As for hiking, there are a variety of options near to or on the Appalachian Trail to accommodate multiple skill levels. We took two excursions with the children up the nearest climb—Jones Mt.—with the reward of a stunning view at the summit that was well worth the entire visit.
Day trips to Charlottesville and national landmarks like Monticello are easy, as is access to a few good local restaurants. That is, if you ever want to leave the gourmet kitchen and every appliance and gadget the inner chef in you could ask for. We developed a new tradition on this holiday: family vacation dinner night. Everybody brought something unique to the table, and we had a great time preparing and enjoying it.
As a mom of young children, I can’t remember the last time I finished an entire novel in five days. Not to mention enjoying it from a gentle porch swing with glorious mountain views and sounds from nature all around, including the brief “distraction” of a visit from a hummingbird to the planters very nearby. When we weren’t reading, hiking, taking pictures or cooking, we were catching up over a multitude of great board games on hand, enjoying a steam shower or Jacuzzi bath, or watching the kids make s’mores at the fire pit.
I highly recommend this spot—we have nothing but good things to say, and very fond memories to cherish.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Adventure Seekers,
Girls Getaway,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 2/2
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