This luxury escape in the Blue Ridge Mountains offers terrace views of its Arnold Palmer golf course. Photo courtesy of Orient-Express
Just three hours south of Baltimore, history meets spectacular landscapes in Charlottesville, Virginia, best known as being the home to U.S. Presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe. The area is also home to Keswick Hall—an impressive mansion with a 100-year history, 48 rooms, its own Arnold Palmer Signature 18-hole golf course, and a luxurious spa.
Over the last 12 years, new ownership has renovated this sprawling 600-acre estate into the perfect retreat for visitors who wish to combine relaxation and pampering with fresh country air. Keswick Hall’s countryside setting, along with its architecture, antiques, golf course, gardens, and storied past all combine to create an ideal getaway weekend.
Named “Number One Top Small Resorts” in the Mainland USA by Condé Nast Traveler, “Keswick Hall is a beautiful location neighboring three presidential homes,” says general manager, Matthias Smith. He adds, “We are close to over 40 vineyards, and we also have a great cooking school program and golf academy.”
The Keswick Club’s classical yet modern golf course architecture features tall oaks, grassy wetlands, and spectacular mountain views as well as a variety of lakes and streams. The golf course at Keswick Hall is one of only nine in the state (and only 411 internationally) that have received its Audubon Environmental Certification, a highly sought after recognition program awarded to courses that have proven to provide a high degree of environmental quality for both people and wildlife.
Some other notable itinerary musts include: The Virginia Discovery Museum, a hands-on children’s museum in downtown Charlottesville; Michie Tavern, a chance to experience 18th-century atmosphere and cuisine; and the King Family Vineyard.
Jennifer K. Dansicker is the Special Projects Editor of Chesapeake Home + Living.
Contacts:
Keswick Hall: keswick.com or 888-778-2565
King Family Vineyard: kingfamilyvineyards.com or 434-823-7800
Michie Tavern: michietavern.com or 434-977-1234
Monticello: Monticello.org or 434-984-9822
The Virginia Discovery Museum: vadm.org or 434-977-1025
