LeFay Cottage
PHOTO: CHUCK FAZIO PHOTOGRAPHY
If you need a change after being cooped up at home, we've found a few vacation spots where you can get away from it all this summer — and avoid being shoulder-to-shoulder with large crowds.
Here's how to prepare for a clean getaway:
Health experts are divided about whether renting an Airbnb or relocating to a vacation home is safe for you or for the people who live in that area year-round.
Remember that coronavirus is everywhere — even in small beach towns, resort communities and other getaway spots. No matter where you go, you need to be vigilant about staying physically distant from other people, washing your hands multiple times per day for at least 20 seconds, wearing a mask and more. Don’t let your guard down!
• Bring your own hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and face masks with you.
• Bring your own groceries and supplies on your summer vacation. Try to avoid going to local stores unless you absolutely have to go.
• Ask about cleaning routines: Is the property owner leaving extra time between house guests and paying for full disinfecting cleanings? You may want to pay extra for additional cleaning before you arrive.
• Bring your own disinfecting household cleaners. It’s a good idea to spray down commonly touched items like all doorknobs and locks, light switches, counters, appliances and more — even after you’ve been assured that your vacation spot has been disinfected. You may want to bring your own towels and bedsheets, as well, just to be extra cautious.
• Ask ahead of time about contactless check-ins.
• Look up local rules and regulations before you go so you know what’s open, what’s closed and what safety measures are in place.
Where to Visit
These options are within a day's drive of Alexandria, and will make you feel like you're worlds away. Here's a look.
Estate at Kingsmill
Williamsburg, Virginia
Buz Nachlas for Alexandria Living Magazine
Kings Mill Estate
PHOTO: BUZ NACHLAS
An over-the-top luxe option among vacation homes available at Kingsmill Resort is the 7,000-square foot Estate at Kingsmill. It was built as a private home for the Busch family, who founded Anheuser-Busch and founded nearby Busch Gardens.
It offers spectacular floor-to-ceiling views of the James River and lots of room to spread out with four spacious master bed-room suites. Just outside, you can relax in the infinity pool or hot tub, throw some steaks on the grill or roast marshmallows around the fire pit. The resort offers two golf courses, tennis courts, jet skis, a marina and four restaurants.
Be sure to try the James Landing Grille, located just a short walk away, offering a menu of fresh seafood. The use of two golf carts and luxury SUVs come with the property. For more information visit kingsmill.com/accommodations/the-estate or call (757) 253-8233.
Barn on the Creeper
Damascus, Virginia
Photo courtesy of Barn on the Creeper
Hiking and cycling enthusiasts, take note: Damascus, located in southwestern Virginia, is known as “Trail Town USA,” where seven trails intersect, including the Appalachian and Virginia Creeper trails.
Cyclists will want to book a stay at Barn on the Creeper, an Airbnb located less than 1,000 feet from the 34-mile long Virginia Creeper cycling path that is also good for hiking.
The one-bedroom, one-bath accommodations include a full bath and kitchen and are located in a renovated barn on 4 acres surrounded by mountain views.
Guests will enjoy unlimited coffee and snacks. Reviewers note that a porch off the bedroom is perfect for star-gazing. Find all the details on Airbnb at airbnb.com/rooms/39089166.
Houseboat at Parrot Cove Marina
Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
Photo courtesy of Parrot Cove Marina
This marina at Smith Mountain Lake offers three different house-boats you can rent and sleep in overnight. Cookware, dinnerware, linens and towels are provided. Activities include cruising the lake, exploring 500 miles of shoreline, swimming, fishing for striped bass (be sure to get a license) and renting jet skis. Of three available houseboats, a 39-foot boat sleeps six; two 53-foot houseboats sleep 10.
You can dock overnight by dropping anchor in a secluded cove or back at the marina. Departures are at 10 a.m. and returns are at 5 p.m. You can also tie up at the marina anytime if you want to head out for golf, shopping or dining. Parrot Cove Marina offers houseboats for rent through Oct. 31. For more information visit parrotcove.com.
LeFay Cottage at Little Washington
Washington, Virginia
Photo courtesy of LeFay Cottage
PHOTO: BETH MILLER-HERHOLZ
This three-bedroom, two-bath cottage on 5 acres is great for families, couples or a girlfriends’ getaway and is just a five-minute drive from the famed Inn at Little Washington (which is practicing social distancing by placing mannequins at some of its tables).
Look for special touches when you arrive at the cottage, such as fresh flowers picked from the garden, local roasters’ coffee and vouchers for wine from a local vineyard. There's no shortage of luxe details you'll enjoy.
Also within a 30-minute drive from the cottage are Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, Rappahannock River and Luray Caverns. Of course, you can always stay put and enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from your hammock or fire up the grill on the deck while you take in the mountain scenery. Learn more at lefaycottageatlittlewashington.com.
Cair Paravel Farm and Lodging
Standardsville, Virginia
Photo courtesy of Cair Paravel
Located on a secluded farm in Standardsville (just north of Charlottesville) with a saltwater pool, hot tub and fire pit, there are several accommodations to choose from at the farm, including a vintage Airstream trailer. The Airstream (below) comes fully stocked with dinnerware and cookware and there’s a grill on the deck.
You can order fresh eggs, ice cream, bread and sausage ahead of time to enjoy. In between hikes, you can visit nearby breweries, vineyards and restaurants.
Kids and the young at heart will love visiting with the sheep, goats, ducks and chickens on the property (although check ahead to be sure that farm tours are being conducted; they were temporarily suspended earlier this year).
Other attractions nearby include Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello and James Madison's Montpelier.
For more information, visit cairparavelfarmstead.com.
Photo courtesy of Cair Paravel
