Need a change of scenery with views of autumn’s splendor? Consider decamping to a micro mountain retreat, a boutique waterfront hotel, a luxe spa resort or a historic estate built by George Washington’s great-great-grandfather. Book an escape to leaf peep and unwind at one of these nearby hermitages.
The Blue Door Kitchen & Inn
Husband-and-wife Andrea Pace and Reem Arbid are the duo behind this congenial getaway in a onetime schoolhouse. Work up an appetite wandering the 5-acre property or hiking nearby Shenandoah trails. (For an easier walk, try the 2.8-mile Jordan River Trail. For a bigger challenge, tackle Little Devils Stairs.) Then savor a meal prepared by Pace, who trained at Italy’s Michelin-acclaimed Villa Mozart (now closed) before running his own Villa Mozart in Fairfax City for about 10 years. Today, he parlays fresh, local ingredients into specialties such as rye ravioli, rack of lamb and apple strudel with sour cream ice cream. With a full belly, retire to one of the inn’s four rooms appointed with king beds and private bathrooms. Rates start at $290. Drive time: About 1 hour, 15 minutes. 675 Zachary Taylor Highway, Flint Hill, Virginia
The Forum Hotel Charlottesville
Now through Nov. 29, this Kimpton property in Charlottesville is offering a special deal for leaf peepers. The Fall Colors package includes breakfast for two, a cup of hot apple cider at check-in, and a curated hiking map that highlights the region’s best trails. The hotel, a study in Jeffersonian-era architecture, also makes a great home base for exploring the Monticello Wine Trail, which includes 40-plus wineries within a 25-mile radius. If you’re there on a Friday or Saturday, take a Cocktail Masterclass from 4-5 p.m. You can also take a spin on one of the hotel’s gratis bikes any day of the week, or stretch out on a yoga mat, available in every room. Rates start at $307. Drive time: About 2 hours. 540 Massie Road, Charlottesville, Virginia
The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant
This historic 18th-century property in Virginia horse country has served as an inn for about 25 years. Its 18 suites and cottages pair modern amenities with nods to the past such as four-poster beds and clawfoot tubs. For the ultimate relaxation, visit the Goodstone Inn Spa for a 60- or 90-minute massage with master therapist Brian Courtney, who has counted Michelle Obama and other luminaries among his clients. He’s even created a Riders Relief Massage specifically for equestrians, targeting sore muscles stemming from adventures on horseback. The property is also home to a working sustainable farm that supplies ingredients to Goodstone’s restaurants and is open for tours. Speaking of restaurants, the resort has four dining options, including a chef’s table experience at The Conservatory. Rates start at $382.50. Drive time: About 1 hour. 36205 Snake Hill Road, Middleburg, Virginia
The Oaks Waterfront Hotel
Nab one of the 11 rooms or four private cottages at this recently renovated waterfront hotel and immerse yourself in fall. During the day, catch a free chauffeured ride to Easton or St. Michaels, where you can shop or attend seasonal events such as OysterFest on Oct. 25 or the Waterfowl Festival Nov. 14-15. If you’ve brought the kids, consider a stop at Family Affair Farm, which has a pick-your-own pumpkin patch and corn maze. At night, kick back by the outdoor fire pit with a mug of hot cider and a s’mores kit. The 10- acre property also offers complimentary kayaks, paddleboards and bikes that guests can borrow for fall foliage immersion. Consider a ride on the picturesque Easton Rails-to-Trails trail, which runs right through town. Rates start at $415. Drive time: About 1 hour, 30 minutes. 25876 Royal Oak Road, Easton, Maryland
Será at Sandy Ridge
