Tis the Season to Stay at a Virginia Bed and Breakfast
Virginia, with its myriad of historic attractions and splendid scenery, is an ideal spot for an old-fashioned country Christmas. There are plenty of interesting seasonal events, and some excellent bed and breakfasts, where you can truly savor the spirit of Christmas.
Orange, Virginia, is a perfect home base for your holiday travels. This quaint, country town graced with many historic buildings creates a delightful ambiance and you’ll find wreath-adorned front doors, a towering community Christmas tree in Taylor Park and a variety of holiday events. In addition, Orange is near to many historic sites, including the homes of four presidents.
At George Washington’s home, Christmas heralds the annual Mount Vernon by Candlelit events. These three-hour evening programs include a tour of the home, as well as fireside caroling and mugs of hot cider.
At Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, visitors can take a step back in time and experience the holiday season much as it was during the early 19th century. Throughout December, nine Signature Tours are held and these evening events include a tour of the main floor of the house and the third-floor dome room. James Monroe’s home, Ash Lawn-Highland, is another holiday option. The home is decorated for the season and special concerts and holiday workshops are scheduled during December.
If you are searching for a historic Virginia inn, look no further than the Holladay House Bed and Breakfast, located on Orange’s Main Street. The Holladay House is one of Orange’s two oldest structures in the Orange Commercial Historic District, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This Virginia inn is named for its most prominent residents, who lived in the home for nearly a century. Civil War skirmishes took place nearby on Main Street, and James Madison probably passed by on his way down the street. Antiques and period touches add to the historic setting.
Each of the guest rooms has been decorated individually to capture a different theme. The Garden Room is a perfect spot for romance with its in-room double whirlpool tub and private patio. The Victorian Suite is another posh option and includes a four-poster bed and fireplace. The other rooms are equally delightful, and all guests enjoy luxurious linens, fluffy towels and fine bath products. Guests also are treated to a full, gourmet breakfast and homemade baked goods, coffee and tea are available throughout the day. The innkeepers at this Virginia bed and breakfast can arrange for anything from Civil War tours to hot-air balloon rides to in-room massage services.