You Could Spend All Day At This Little-Known Forest Retreat In Virginia
MacCallum More Museum and Gardens in Charles City, Virginia, offers a unique blend of architecture, art, and nature, making it a perfect retreat for a peaceful escape.
Have you ever heard of the term forest bath? Essentially, it's a practice that involves going into the woods on a regular basis to 'bathe' yourself in the refreshing nature of trees, wildlife, and sunshine. This experience isn't hard to come by in such a forest-friendly state of Virginia, especially when you plan a visit to Maccallum More Gardens and Museum. This hidden gem can only be described as a retreat in the woods, and it's the perfect spot for a forest bath.
Tucked away in the southern Virginia town of Charles City awaits a perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful escape into nature.
These gardens date back nearly 100 years, when they were established as a private garden in the 1920s by a woman named Lucy Morton Hudgins. It was her son William, who served as a Personal Aide to President Truman, that expanded the gardens to what they are today.
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Visitors today are enchanted to discover the MacCallum More Museum and Gardens. The grounds are a somewhat eclectic mix of objects from around the world worked into beautiful landscaping.
Exploring the 6-acre property, you'll find a range of statues as well as artifacts from ages gone by. This unique blend of architecture, art, and nature, give the gardens an unforgettable feel.
In addition to the gardens, there are also museum exhibits located throughout the property. Photographed below is the Robertson Artifact Collection, which includes thousands of arrowheads that were found in Mecklenburg and Charlotte counties.
No matter your reason for stopping by -- whether it be an escape into nature or a fascinating look at gardening -- you'll be spellbound by this beautiful architecture awaiting under the forest canopy.
MacCallum More Museum and Gardens can be found at 603 Hudgins St, Chase City, VA 23924. For more information on this beautiful exhibit, you can follow along on Facebook or visit the website here for additional information.
We all need to get away now and then -- and cabins in Virginia are the perfect place to start. There are many options for cabin rentals in Virginia -- from mountainside retreats that offer the luxury of a 5-star hotel to rustic cabins nestled in the woods. The following cabins offer a range of styles, prices, and amenities to get you started on finding the cabin getaway that's perfect for you. Without further ado, we bring you some of the best cabins in Virginia when you're looking for hospitality, scenery, and plenty of relaxation.
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Affordable Cabins in Virginia
Enjoy the best of the Old Dominion without breaking the bank when you check into one of these adorable *and* affordable cabins in Virginia:
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms and can sleep up to four guests.
Price: $228/night.
Amenities: Prime location near outdoor attractions and parks, vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, upper deck, outdoor hot tub, fire pit, dog-friendly (two dogs allowed for $25/dog/night with no breed/size limit)
The beautiful Falling Leaf Cabin is nestled on three secluded wooded acres in the Shenandoah Valley. Open year-round, this cabin offers a quiet escape in one of the most beautiful regions of Virginia. After exploring, coming back to this cozy cabin and soaking up the sunset from the second-floor deck -- or outdoor hot tub! -- is the icing on the cake.
If you're looking for a truly peaceful getaway, Windy Mile Cabin in Lexington is the perfect place. Located on an 80-acre conservation farm, this cozy cabin offers absolute serenity with more than comfortable accommodations. With 5-star reviews, Windy Mile is an ideal alternative to hotels and motels when visiting the charming town of Lexington.
Amenities: Waterfront property with a dedicated workspace.
Ratings: 4.97 on Airbnb.
Looking to totally disconnect from your day-to-day routine? Book a few nights at this charming cabin on the creek. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains on the banks of Little Mary's Creek, is the very definition of a hidden gem. It's best suited for parties of two but can technically accommodate up to 4 guests.
Luxury Cabins in Virginia
In the mood to treat yourself? Check into one of these luxurious cabins in Virginia. With high-end amenities and amazing scenery, you might never want to leave!
Rose River Farm offers three luxury cabins, each styled as a modern interpretation of traditional Mongolian yurts. The cabins offer breathtaking views of the mountains, the Rose River Valley, and the farm's fully stocked fishing ponds. Enjoy one of Rose River Farm's activities like fly fishing, guided kayak trips and horseback riding, or just kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
Shenandoah Solitude is a beautiful vacation cabin, nestled in the woods, with a beautiful 20-mile view of the Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, and mighty Shenandoah River. While large enough to fit groups of eight, this cabin is cozy enough to make you feel warm and comfortable, making it a great couples' getaway, too. Modern technology and rustic charm come together for a truly luxurious and memorable getaway in Virginia at this stunning cabin.
Romantic Cabins in Virginia
There's something undeniably romantic about a cabin getaway, and Virginia's cabins truly are on another level. Here are some of our favorite romantic cabins in Virginia:
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6. Secluded Mountain Getaway in the Shenandoah Valley
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and can sleep up to six guests.
Price: $195/night.
Amenities: Remote location with stunning Valley views, outdoor hot tub and fire pit, fully-equipped kitchen, plasma satellite television, DVD, and lots of modern amenities.
Relax and enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains from this charming cabin rental. You will enjoy the beautiful mountaintop views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the large wrap-around deck, and the cabin borders Shenandoah National Park, making this cabin the perfect "home base" for your adventures.
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and one bathroom.
Price: $286/night.
Amenities: Hot tub, TV, dedicated work space, full kitchen
Ratings: 4.89 on Airbnb.
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Imagine waking up with a view of the mountains in your own private sanctuary. Throw in your own private hot tub and this is the exact experience you can look forward to at the Modern River Cabin. Perfect for a mini-moon, anniversary, weekend getaway, or an immersive experience in the mountains, this cabin is just a stone's throw from the river and an entire world of adventure.
8. Cozy Romantic Cabin with View of Blue Ridge Mountains
This lovely romantic cabin in Virginia is the perfect getaway for a couple who loves the mountains. The Blue Ridge views will amaze you and the cozy feeling of the inside will make it the ideal weekend.
Secluded Cabins in Virginia
If you're looking to get away from it all, you're in the right state! The Old Dominion is full of so many great places to escape in nature, and these secluded cabins in Virginia offer true R&R:
Escape to the Shenandoah Valley with your family to this well-appointed and secluded cabin. Surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views and near several must-visit parks and attractions, this cabin in Virginia is a great option for larger groups!
10. New River Retreat - Kirkner Lake Cabin, Hiwasee (Pulaski County)
Built in 1840, the Kirkner Lake Cabin on the New River is a timeless escape to the past. Sip coffee on the porch overlooking the water or relax in front of a fire in the stone fireplace. Even with its modern conveniences, this cabin will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. New River Retreat offers vacation homes throughout the New River Valley on the New River, Claytor Lake, New River Trail, and in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit New River Retreat to book the historic Kirkner Lake Cabin or to see one of their many other options.
Cabins in Virginia with Hot Tub
Is there anything a soak in a warm and soothing hot tub can't cure? Soak up the lap of luxury when you rent one of these cabins in Virginia with a hot tub:
Size: Named after the famous Pinnacles of Dan, four gracious, chalet-like cottages each offer accommodation for up to 12 people with birds-eye views of the valley below.
Price: Check website.
Amenities: Don't let the word ‘cottage’ mislead you, however. While charming, these generously proportioned, two-story abodes are stylish eyries with serene interiors and space to spare. Each cottage boasts two inviting living areas arranged around open stone fireplaces (one on each level), two large Dan River Suites opening onto expansive private decks, and two Cedar Bluff Rooms with their own private balconies. Book an entire cottage to keep your group together during your stay. Accessible rooms are available, too.
We've featured Primland more than once, but for good reason. This beautifully appointed resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the best places to stay in Virginia. It offers everything a luxury resort should – a stately lodge and suites, cottages, golfing, spa facilities, and much more. But if you’re truly looking for something different, try one of Primland’s premium tree houses or mountain homes. As an upscale take on log cabins, these stunning retreats offer amenities and panoramic views that are simply unbeatable.
12. Lydia Mountain Lodge and Log Cabins, Stanardsville
This pet-friendly mountain hideaway offers a wide range of packages, cabins, and event options. Featuring 1-5 bedroom cabins, a rustic motel, and an event pavilion, Lydia Mountain truly has something for everyone. You can enjoy the beauty of the mountains from your deck, book an in-cabin massage, or soak in the scenery in your private hot tub.
This fantastic Virginia cabin with a hot tub is bound to become your new favorite spot to vacation. Relax in the peaceful hammock, play in the game room, or enjoy exploring the nearby Shenandoah National Park. Another great perk is having access to Massanutten Resort community amenities, including tennis courts, a swimming pool and waterpark, places to eat, and a golf course.
What are your thoughts on our list of some of the best cabins in Virginia?
If you're not ready to pack a bag and head to one of these amazing spots by now, I'm not sure what it will take. But in the meantime, tell us about some of your favorite cabin retreats. Are there some gems we've overlooked? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for more reasons to love Virginia? Check out this stunning footage of Shenandoah National Park:
When you think of ranches, you probably envision wide-open skies and rugged mountains of the American West. Yet few people realize that there's an authentic guest ranch right here in Virginia! Head to Shangrila Guest Ranch in South Boston and prepare to be amazed by the gorgeous scenery, welcoming hosts, and beautiful animals.
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There are few places along the East Coast that offer an authentic ranch experience, but that's exactly what you'll find at the Shangrila.
The guest ranch offers inclusive packages, featuring guided trail rides, lodging, and meals. It's the perfect way to experience all that Shangrila has to offer.
The trail rides are gorgeous and can be chosen based on your skill level and preferences. Some venture across creeks and through hardwood forests while others will lead you through open fields.
As for lodging, guests can choose from the Old Home Place, which was built in 1801, the Packhouse, which can accommodate a small group, or a Log Cabin tucked away in the woods that can accommodate a group of four.
So whether you're in need of an escape, a taste of the Old West right here in Virginia, or perhaps a family trip with memories to last a lifetime, you'll be glad you booked a stay at this authentic guest ranch in Virginia.
Have you ever visited the Shangrila Guest Ranch in Virginia? What did you think of your experience there? Feel free to share your stories with us -- we'd love to hear from you! For more information, including rates and availability, be sure to check out the official Shangrila Guest Ranch website.
Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out our list of the very best places to stay in Virginia:
