1. Primland Resort, Auberge Resorts Collection | Meadows of Dan
Take your pick of year-round activities at Primland Resort and Spa, a 12,000-acre vacation destination in Southwest Virginia, perfect for outdoors lovers. Activities include hiking, ATV tours, fly fishing, clay shooting, horseback riding and more. Dine on organic cuisine and sleep in elegant accommodations in the Euro-inspired main lodge or a luxurious slope-side cabin. Don’t miss a tranquil spa treatment at the Auberge Spa.
2. Salamander Resort & Spa | Middleburg
One of Virginia’s newest luxury destinations, Salamander Resort and Spa is located about an hour west of Washington, D.C., in prime horse country. Naturally, the resort offers horseback rides as well as a unique Equi-spective Experience to help you learn to communicate better. (Hint: a horse is your teacher.) Not into horses? No problem. Resort amenities include an amazing spa, swimming pools, tennis, golf and much more. For a unique experience, book a private chef’s dinner in the Cooking Studio at Harrimans Virginia Piedmont Grill and prepare to be wowed. Bon appetit!
3. The Tides Inn | Irvington
Nestled beside the Chesapeake Bay in the charming town of Irvington, the Tides Inn offers intimate luxury amid traditional elegance. You’ll love the gracious accommodations — 66 redesigned guestrooms and four new luxury suites—and the views from the Chesapeake Restaurant and Terrace, where seafood meets southern comfort. Take time to experience the full-service spa, sailing school, golf, tennis and more. Sign up for the Oyster Academy and learn about the extraordinary bivalves before slurping down a few.
4. The Omni Homestead Resort | Hot Springs
Since the 18th century, the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia has been a premier luxury resort for everyday vacationers and U.S. presidents alike. The 2,000-acre resort combines southern hospitality and elegant charm. Golfers will love playing on one of the nation’s most historic courses. Families can enjoy myriad activities including horseback riding, skiing, zip-lining, and kayaking. Dine on continental cuisine with regional flair, and for dessert, don’t miss the Homestead Gold Brick Sundae with candied pecans, bourbon pecan chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream. You’ll sleep well tonight!
By Peggy Sijswerda, MFA, has written about travel and wellness for 25 years, covering myriad topics from design trends in Stockholm to spa treatments in Spain. She loves riding horses and hanging out with family and friends around a campfire. Follow Peggy on instagram.com/peggywrites and facebook.com/ifyouseekadventure.