
Candy melts. Roses drop their petals. But the sweet moments sparked by a romantic getaway with your valentine can will last a lifetime. Put real-world distractions on hold for a few days and whisk your beloved away to one of these escapes. All are in driving distance of DC. (Sure, it may be a little late to book for February 14, but hey, it’s wonderful to have an early spring getaway to look forward to…)
The Homestead Resort
This Allegheny Mountain resort, located in Hot Springs, Virginia, is renowned as one of the world’s foremost luxury golf and spa resorts. Dating from 1766, the Homestead abounds with charm. In addition to its championship golf course the 2,000-acre setting boasts a downhill ski area, an equestrian center, a top-rated shooting club, archery, canoeing, falconry, and Segway tours. Ready for some pampering? The spa offers every service you can imagine while an array of gourmet restaurants cook up spectacular meals served with genuine Southern hospitality.
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Located in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands Mountains, just a few hours' drive from Washington, Nemacolin has something for everyone. Enjoy the spectacular art collection displayed throughout the French-style chateau, then indulge in the award-winning spa or a world-class dining experience. Nemacolin offers championship golf, bike rentals, a safari-style animal park, and an Adventure Center with paintball, a rock-climbing wall, ropes course, and a zip line. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater home is a nearby attraction.
Salamander Hotels & Resorts
If you love horses and wine, head to Salamander in Middleburg, Virginia. The romantic 340-acre resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour from DC, is the perfect jumping off point for enjoying some of the region’s best wineries.
The Inn at Little Washington
Book a year in advance for this one! The restaurant at the Inn at Little Washington is recognized as one the world’s finest. The inn is nestled in in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, with spectacular views, wineries, antique shops, and wide range of outdoor activities close at hand.
The Greenbrier
Have you ever spent the night at a National Historic Landmark? You can when you visit The Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia: The Greenbrier has been operating since 1778. Enjoy more than 50 recreational activities on 11,000 acres including skiing, ice-skating, three championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa that is utterly indulgent.
The Tides Inn
If water floats your boat, head to The Tides Inn, situated on a private peninsula overlooking Carters Creek in Irvington, Virginia. Enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and activities such as boat cruises, sailing lessons, stand-up paddle boarding, golf, tennis, croquet, and a full-service spa. Don’t miss the farm-to-table restaurant, where you can sample the very freshest oysters from the Rappahannock River.
The Inn at Perry Cabin
Once you settle into the Inn at Perry Cabin, you’ll find it hard to leave! This 78-room manor house, with its beautiful furnishings and welcoming atmosphere, is spectacularly located on the shores of the Chesapeake. Bask in the inn’s luxury, but be sure to leave plenty of time to mosey around the town of St. Michaels, Maryland, with its eclectic boutiques and maritime museum. If the mood strikes, the inn can help you arrange golf, fishing, sailing, horse-drawn carriage rides, and historic walking tours.