The Homestead 1766, in the Allegheny Mountains of Hot Springs, Va. is a perfect place for a couple or family hiatus. Our company sent us on a three hour journey from Northern Va. to this palace in the middle of nowhere.
After miles of climbing twisted roads, a final bend introduced us to a surprising vision. Our immediate reaction: The Shining meets Dirty Dancing.
The Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, was built in 1766 to lure folks to the resort to "take in the waters". Fittingly located in Bath County, hot springs bubbling from 5 miles down under, pop up all around the property. Back in the day, for better health, people soaked in the mineral water and drank it too.
Today the springs are strictly for soaking -- not drinking. Take a a nice, relaxing float in an authentic bath house that Thomas Jefferson frequently visited.
The Homestead is a must-see experience. The business appears to be booming with construction of an expanded pool area to include a spring-fed lazy river.
Here are some hot tips for this Hot Springs get-away.
- Take your confirmation and itinerary. They are usually booked and they almost turned us away because they couldn't find us in their system.
- Book a room in the tower for breath taking views of the mountains and valleys.
- Eat at the resort. The food and atmosphere are spectacular. If you venture outside the compound, the local Sam Snead's Tavern is a spot that you can reach using a cut-through next to the inside pool.
- Participate in the many, many activities. Croquet, golf, volleyball, horseback riding, shooting, swimming, skiing, and hiking are just a few things to do on the grounds. The North Trail near the volleyball net in the front lawn is the most scenic route to hike.
Take the 5 mile shuttle ride to the Jefferson Pools. Locals will tell you the pools will help your aches and pains. The 98 degree mineral water soak made my skin feel like silk.
- Take a few hours to roam the halls and rooms of this massive, historical site that has had numerous visits from past U. S. Presidents.
My spouse and I took notice of the top-notch wedding facilities on the great lawn with a mountain view. We may need The Homestead someday. We have six daughters and that could mean a few weddings to plan.
The photos below will explain why so many people visit The Homestead for a retreat or big event:
The inviting front porch
Checkers and chess in the garden room
Steps and bannisters
Flowers and sunlight everywhere
Towering stairs
Narrow, hidden sitting room
Check-in at the bath house costs $17 per person (towel provided)
The top of the interior of the bath house is open to the sky
The rules of the bath house: Whisper, no swimming, and relax
The historic Homestead in night-time splendor
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