William Pole, builder of a historic chapel for Robert E. Lee at what was then Washington College, built this Victorian home for himself in 1868. The classic fluted columns on the front porch, entry hall with original wood paneling and scattered Oriental rugs, and parlor with fireplace, old brass candlesticks and needlepoint pillows are all intended to be evocative of another era. Accommodations include three individual rooms and two suites, all with original touches and period furniture. All rooms have private baths, air conditioning and Wi-Fi Internet access, and guests have access to a second-level balcony. Breakfast is served in the dining room with china, crystal and silver. The inn is conveniently located in Lexington's historic downtown.
1868 Magnolia House Inn
501 South Main St.
Lexington, Virginia 24450
866-751-8664
540-463-2567
magnoliahouseinn.com
For more rustic elegance, the House Mountain Inn is nestled in a secluded, private mountain area, surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of woodlands that include trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The nine guestrooms and suites include such amenities as jacuzzis and hot tubs, private porches with rocking chairs and mountain views, gas fireplaces, satellite TV and high-speed Internet. Room rates include breakfast, dinner and an afternoon wine and cheese hour. The House Mountain Inn also offers a deluxe package for couples with chilled champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and a fireside massage. Additional amenities include an off-road vehicle tour through the mountains and guided horseback riding.
House Mountain Inn
455 Lonesome Dove Trail
Lexington, VA 24450
540-464-4004
housemountaininn.com
This country inn is located midway between Lexington and Natural Bridge in a "very private and beautiful setting," according to its website. Built originally as a private, three-story passive solar home, it is now a "green lodging" that offers such advantages as enclosed second-floor porches that are warm enough to be used virtually year-round. Guestrooms have antique furnishings and private baths, and well-behaved dogs are allowed in one of them. For those wanting to experience something different, the owners offer guided llama treks of about two hours in the Virginia mountains. Breakfast is served in the family-style dining room or on the porch or patio. Sunday dinner is part of the long weekend package only.
Applewood Inn
242 Tarn Beck Lane
Glasgow, VA 24555
800-463-1902
540-463-1962
applewoodbb.com
