Experience Luxury at Keswick Hall in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains

Keswick Hall brings a bit of the English countryside to the Virginia mountains. If Great Britain has been calling your name—perhaps after binge-watching Netflix’s Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story—but you can’t stomach this summer’s sky-high transatlantic flight prices, there might be a better option. The foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains are reminiscent of the pastoral green spaces of the Cotswolds and the rolling landscape of the Peak District—plus, they’re a lot easier to get to from most major U.S. cities.

Keswick Hall Overview

While Virginia has a variety of beautiful scenery and numerous charming small towns, there’s one area in particular that radiates countryside charm. Located about seven miles outside of Charlottesville, Keswick is a quaint town along Route 22, characterized by picturesque fences, historic markers, and sprawling estates. The main attraction here is a property that has been welcoming guests for over 100 years.

Once a country club, an Orient Express Hotel, and the private residence of Sir Bernard Ashley, Keswick Hall has undergone a remarkable transformation since its reopening in 2022. Led by current owners Molly and Robert Hardie, the boutique resort’s multi-year renovation aimed to blend luxury with historic roots, resulting in a modern yet classic ambiance (it’s now ADA-accessible).

Amenities and Accommodations

As you approach, you might expect loftiness and isolation due to the hotel’s photos; however, the entrance and parking area appear sooner than anticipated upon turning off Route 22. This means you won’t have to sacrifice convenience for tranquility. Upon entering, you’re instantly welcomed into a serene escape.

Within the main building, you’ll find inviting public spaces, including a cozy library, a bright sitting room with views of a Pete Dye-designed 18-hole golf course, and relaxing terraces. The infinity pool attracts guests and members alike during the warmer months, with lounge chairs and cabanas providing idyllic spots for unwinding. Guest rooms reflect a soothing design palette—incorporating whites, blues, creams, and elegant wooden furnishings. Select rooms even feature private balconies, ideal for sipping morning coffee while soaking in the stunning Virginia landscape.

Recreation and Relaxation

Guests will find the 600-acre property an ideal setting to connect with nature and escape life’s hustle. The newly introduced Keswick Spa stands out as a centerpiece sanctuary. Upon checking in, an overwhelming sense of calm envelopes you, especially in the relaxation lounge where you can enjoy fruit-infused beverages while gazing at the deciduous forest through expansive windows.

Culinary Options

The culinary offerings at Keswick Hall are equally noteworthy. Guests can grab quick bites at The Counter, a convenient coffee shop, or enjoy cocktails and small plates at Crawford’s, paying tribute to the property’s original owners. However, Marigold by Jean-Georges, the first Virginia restaurant from the acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, truly shines. This restaurant features a rotating seasonal menu, showcasing wood-fired pizzas, dishes made from local produce and herbs, and an assortment of entrees that are both inviting and unpretentious.

A luxurious countryside escape in Virginia offers guests the chance to savor fresh air and relaxation, whether through a round of golf, a match on the red clay tennis courts, or biking past charming homes. If this aligns with your ideal getaway, consider making Keswick Hall your next destination.