I am a bit of a history buff AND an outdoor enthusiast. So, when I first heard about a 2,000 acre resort in Hot Springs, Virginia that was built in 1766, I knew I had to go.
It is located in the Allegheny Mountains, less than a 2 hour drive from Roanoke, VA or 3-4 hours from Washington, DC. The original resort actually burned down in 1901 but was rebuilt and still stands today as a National Historic Landmark. Don't worry- it includes all the modern amenities we have grown to know and love (wifi and air conditioning, of course). But the hotel has done a beautiful job maintaining the look and feel of an historic building and the surrounding grounds are absolutely gorgeous.
I first started coming to this Omni resort about 10 years ago and have returned year after year in both the winter and summer. There are so many activities no matter what season you visit. With a luxury spa, two 18 hole golf courses, top-notch restaurants, boutiques, an indoor pool, and an outdoor lazy river, water slides, and more pools. There is non-stop fun for all ages.
The biggest draw to this resort for me is the hot springs. This part of Virginia has a large collection of natural hot springs that are said to have healing properties. In fact, that was one of the biggest draws for well-to-do folks of the 18th and 19th centuries. Thomas Jefferson actually visited the resort in 1819 hoping to cure his rheumatism (not sure it worked, but cool fact, nonetheless). The pools are heated from geothermal waters so even in the winter, swimming outdoors is enjoyable. However, my absolute favorite time to visit is summer. It is heavenly lounging all day by the beautifully landscaped pool enjoying the mountain scenery, warm water, and glorious sunshine. Servers even deliver drinks and food right to your chairs. Also, summer is the only season where the lazy river and water slides are open and that is a must-do for my kiddos. Dogs are even welcome at the resort! See the cutie-pie chilling with his owner by the pool bar below.
Some other fun family-friendly activities we always enjoy at the Homestead are archery, mini-golf, and the arcade. The arcade has a mini bowling alley, pool table, and of course, arcade games. The resort even plays movies in the evenings in the old-fashioned theater (built at the turn of the last century). And make sure to head outside in the evenings for lawn games and smores around the roaring fire pit.
By now you are probably wondering, how can I learn about all the history of this amazing place? Well, never fear, there is a daily historic tour that encompasses the resort's 250 year history. I found the tour fascinating and was super impressed by the tour guide. Honestly, I was impressed with all of the staff. Everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable. They truly make you feel right at home. Southern hospitality at its finest.
Speaking of southern hospitality. Don't forget to take part in Afternoon Tea (referred to by the resort as Southern Social Hour). Partake in the complimentary beverages and snacks while relaxing near one of the many fireplaces in the grand lobby. It is offered every afternoon between 3-4 pm.
Now to discuss some more adult-friendly activities - Golf and the Spa
The resort has 2 championship golf courses. In fact, the Old Course is the nation's oldest first tee in continuous use. And the Cascades Course is regarded as one of the finest mountain courses in the country. In fact, it has been featured in GolfWeek's 2021 Best Resort Courses. Both courses are set against the backdrop of beautiful mountain scenery.
And now my favorite thing- the spa. Remember when I said Thomas Jefferson visited back in the 1800's? Well, the very same hot springs he soaked in is now part of the spa garden complex. You have to book either a spa treatment or buy a day pass to visit this part of the resort. And no kids allowed which can be a welcome reprieve from all the family time (lol). The spa also includes an aqua thermal suite. It is truly a place of beauty and relaxation. I highly highly recommend it.
Ok, back to more family-friendly activities. Hiking is another one of my favorite hobbies. And this resort has an absolutely stunning trail on property. The Cascades Gorge trail is a 1.8 mile moderate hike that meanders along 18+ waterfalls. The trail can only be accessed as a guided hike. You can easily sign up at the Concierge desk at the resort. The guide provides fascinating facts about the flora and fauna along the way. I highly recommend the tour even if you aren't normally a guided hike kind of person(I know I am not). Not only does the guide do a great job (you can tell it's not just a job to him), the scenery is stunning.
Other summer activities I have not yet experienced are kayaking, mountain biking, falconry, horseback riding, and fishing. Seriously, there is so much to do, it's impossible to do it all in one trip (or even multiple trips). But this is one of the reasons we return year after year.
And while I most recently went in the summer. I would be remiss to not mention how fun the resort is in the winter. Winter is also a great time to visit especially if you live in southern states that rarely see snow! Winter activities include skiing, ice skating, and tubing. There are 9 trails of various levels on the mountain which makes it a great place to learn. It is generally uncrowded and lessons are available. And the hot tub and pools are an excellent way to rest your weary legs after a long day of fun out in the snow.
The Omni Homestead Resort embodies gracious southern hospitality, stunning scenery, and more activities than you thought possible. Trust me, you won't want to leave.
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