Near and (Not Too) Far Great Escapes for Families

Whether families are looking for a getaway on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, a high-energy whitewater rafting trip in the wild or a stay on a picturesque estate in the countryside, Virginia’s summer destinations offer affordable and fun options.

By Caty Gordon

Sea Change
The perfect getaway is one that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. In three corners of the region, accommodations and activities abound for every type of traveler. From the scenic ocean coastline, to the river rapids of the southwest, to the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area boasts an array of escapes from the Beltway stressors. Take, for example, the Oceanfront Hilton in Virginia Beach. When families stay in the most luxurious resort hotel on the Virginia Beach oceanfront, they have exclusive access to the very best beachside activities.

Let the kids discover what it’s like to swim where the water meets the sky in Virginia Beach’s only rooftop, zero-edged infinity pool. Or, if they’re more inclined to soak up the sun in the sand, relax on the hotel’s pristine beach, where Hilton provides a fresh supply of towels and the use of complimentary beach chairs. Seasonal umbrellas are also available, as are upgraded amenities like plush pillow-top poolside chaise loungers and oceanfront cabanas.

At the hotel’s Resort Sports, families will find every amenity needed to enjoy the beach. Rentals include bikes, beach games, rollerblades, surfboards and water sports equipment. Let the kids climb, jump and slide through the castle-themed playground. Hilton leaves nothing to be desired with their extensive family-friendly activities and options, including an extensive children’s menu.

Getting Swept Away
Away from the coastline is another body of water ready to give families the ride of their lives. Whether travelers are looking to enjoy Class V rapids or coast along a slow-moving current, River Expeditions in Oak Hill, W.Va., will create a custom itinerary based on schedule, budget and interests. Families can enjoy the scenic views of the New River and Gauley River while they raft down its rapids.

“The Upper Section of the river is the most family-friendly rafting we offer,” says Heather Johnson of River Expeditions. “It’s available for children as young as 6 and gentle enough for multigenerational families with grandparents who want to enjoy low-impact adventure with their grandchildren. On this mild section, trips for kids are half-price, making it one of our most affordable family vacation options.” For children over 12 and rafters who want a more intermediate adventure, the Lower New River Gorge is a popular whitewater destination.

In addition to rapids, adventurers can enjoy breathtaking views of the New River Valley while riding horseback through scenic trails, or enjoy an afternoon of fishing with equipment provided by River Expeditions (minimum age is 8). The area also boasts a soaring zip line, and opportunities to rock climb and rappel in the New River Gorge (minimum age is 6). Children as young as 8 can ride a utility vehicle when accompanied by a driver at least 18 years old.

“There are also plenty of historic and educational activities, including a Junior Ranger Program and the National Park Service and several lectures hosted by the NPS at River Expeditions throughout the summer season,” says Johnson. “There is also an exhibition coal mine and a youth museum in nearby Beckley, W.Va.”

With all of their excursion options and nearby attractions, River Expeditions plays host to every outdoor adventure fantasy with affordable rates and can’t-miss seasonal specials.

An Oasis of Calm
For a tranquil getaway, visit the countryside just an hour outside of Northern Virginia. In the 1700s, Middleburg was a stopping point for many travelers along the East Coast and still boasts the idyllic hospitality of past centuries. Take, for example, Goodstone Inn and Estate, nestled between Loudoun County and the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Since 1768, Goodstone has remained a property of pristine pastures and breathtaking views.

In 1996, the current owners converted the 265-acre property into a country inn with a Manor House, Spring House, Carriage House, Dutch Cottage and French Farm Cottage—all of which provide luxury suites and deluxe bedrooms that evoke the feeling of an earlier time. Complimentary homemade cookies, fine bathroom amenities and the softest robes and slippers make each guest feel at home.

Recreational activities at Goodstone abound both on the property and throughout the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool nestled within wisteria-covered ruins of the estate’s original stone mansion, an all-season Jacuzzi, hiking and walking trails, mountain bikes, canoeing, in-room massages, spa treatments and afternoon tea. Goodstone guests also have access to complimentary golf at Stoneleigh Golf Club, an 18-hole course located nearby.

The nearby town of Middleburg offers additional activities; including winery tours, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, golfing, whitewater rafting, hiking trails throughout the region and polo matches. From May to September at nearby Great Meadow, spectators are invited at watch the Twilight Polo games beneath the stars before retiring to their country suite at Goodstone.

‘Valley Town’ Culture
Another Virginia destination that offers both high-energy activities and low-key relaxation in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Harrisonburg, just two hours from Northern Virginia. “Whether you enjoy the culture of small valley towns, great food, local music or the great outdoors, Harrisonburg is one of the most beautiful locations to get outdoors, stroll through historic downtowns, dine on local flavors or get connected to the arts,” says Zenaida Hall of Harrisonburg Tourism and Guest Services. Harrisonburg celebrates many summertime traditions, including Fridays on the Square where live musical groups alternate with films every Friday evening in downtown Harrisonburg. Every first Friday of the month is Harrisonburg’s Art Walk, involving 20 downtown venues exhibiting artists, providing live music and sharing light refreshments.

Harrisonburg will also play host to a small-town celebration on July 3 with patriotic children’s activities, comedy shows and walking tours. A parade will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a pie-eating contest, live music and fireworks set against the scenic skyline of the Blue Ridge.

After a long winter of working, who wouldn’t want to relax on a beach cabana, be swept down river or peruse the countryside? There are getaway packages available for every travel taste. So unplug the electronics, pack up the kids, and unwind on a great escape that the whole family can enjoy.

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Goodstone Inn and Estate
36205 Snake Hill Road; Middleburg, VA 20117
540-687-4645; www.goodstone.com

Activities Offered: Outdoor pool, all-season Jacuzzi, hiking and walking trails, mountain bikes, canoeing, in-room massages and spa treatments. Guests also have access to complimentary golf at 18-hole course located nearby.

Price: Rooms from $275/night – $675/night

Accommodations: Choose from four former estate houses with renovated rooms and amenities.

Eating Options: Enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner on the property. Picnic baskets also available for purchase.

Deal: Summer Getaway Package: Choice of room; $50 credit toward dinner for two; Full country breakfast; Afternoon tea; Bottle of Champagne upon arrival; Two Goodstone aluminum water bottles filled with freshly squeeze lemonade throughout your stay

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Harrisonburg Guest and Visitor Services
212 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
540-432-8935

Activities Offered: Fridays on the Square: Live musical groups alternating with films every Friday evening on Courthouse Square in downtown Harrisonburg. Music starts at 7pm. Films start at 8pm or dusk.
Harrisonburg Farmers Market: Second Saturday of every month; acoustic jam from 10 to noon.

Price: Prices vary

Accommodations: Hotels, extended stays, bed and breakfasts, inns, camping and cabins available. Pet-friendly accommodations available.

Eating Options: Dave Downtown Taverna: Dave’s offers a variety of Greek favorites like gyros, kebobs and saganaki, as well as American classics like burgers, cheese steaks and pizza. Great atmosphere with bar and live music.
Cally’s: At Cally’s you’ll find hand-crafted ales and lagers, delicious entrees including daily specials, and one of the best burgers in town. Opened Tuesday through Sunday.
Mrs. Hardesty’s Tea Room: Traditional tea fare, light lunch and afternoon tea served.
Smokin Pig BBQ: If you’re looking for great southwest- and Carolina-style barbeque, look no further than the Smokin’ Pig.

Deal: Absolutely Local Package: Two nights in either Fitzgerald, Quill or Bergey Cottage, gourmet local breakfast, $10 cash to spend at local farmers market, two tickets for touring and tasting local vineyards, picnic lunch, $60 dinner credit, $10 certificate for local dairy bar / $689 per couple
Music Tracks Package: One night’s accommodation for two at Courtyard Marriott, gift CD “Here on This Ridge,” free breakfast buffet, self-guided tour of the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, commemorative Harrisonburg Downtown Walking Tour Booklet / $119 per couple

(July 2010)

 

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