Where to Stay in the Shenandoah Valley

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The Shenandoah Valley stretches about 140 miles and includes the towns of Winchester, Berryville, Front Royal, Woodstock, Luray, Harrisonburg, Staunton, Waynesboro, Lexington, and Buena Vista. The northern areas can be a great day trip from Washington, DC or you can stay anywhere in the valley for a weekend.

The valley offers stays in cabins, luxury inns, small towns, and campgrounds. I personally prefer a cabin or inn when I’m staying in Shenandoah, but campgrounds are available if that is your style. If I’m staying in a small town, it’s usually Harrisonburg or Staunton. Harrisonburg is home to James Madison University (my alma mater), and I visit occasionally for football games and to enjoy Downtown Harrisonburg. I have friends in Staunton, which has a cute downtown area, historic areas, and wineries.

Here are a few of my favorite cabins and luxury inns.

Cabins and Remote Retreats in the Shenandoah Valley

Lydia Mountain Lodge and Cabins

I discovered Lydia Mountain after a friend chose it as a wedding location. It was also the perfect secluded escape during the pandemic. Lydia Mountain offers a main lodge with themed rooms and public outdoor space that overlooks the valley. However, my favorite way to do it is to get one of the cabins. Most of them have hot tubs, grills, fire pits, and stocked kitchens. Bring your coffee, wine, and enough food for a long weekend in the mountains.

Cabins vary when it comes to views and how remote they are, so check each one out on the website to see which one is right for your vacation. Cabin options include 1 to 5 bedrooms and fill up fast. Book at least 6 months out for the best selection – especially in the fall.

The closest major towns: Staunton and Waynesboro – about 1 hour
In the area: Lydia Mountain is near many hiking trails and wineries to explore. Wineries include Stone Mountain Winery, Early Mountain Winery, Montifalco Vineyard, and many more. It is also about an hour from Staunton and Charlottesville (separate directions) for a day trip.

Skyland Resort

Skyland Resort offers a lodge, cabins, on-site dining, and sweeping views of the valley. While you’ll be comfortable with quick access to all the necessities, there is spotty cell and wifi service. Leave your tech and worries at home to truly embrace the mountain beauty for a weekend. While it is a rustic retreat, I have attended two beautiful weddings here – it still has everything you need for a comfortable weekend away.

The closest major town: Luray – about 40 minutes
In the area: Skyland Resort is located near Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Trail. The trail includes seven vineyards, three breweries, and three distilleries. You’ll always find nine restaurants, including The Inn at Little Washington – the DC area’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant. You can also head to Luray to visit Luray Caverns.

Brookside Cabins

Brookside offers nine cozy cabins with 1 to 2 bedrooms. Cabins include refrigerators and a coffee maker. Some cabins have a hot tub and a gas fireplace. While these cabins are comfortable and offer an on-site restaurant, they are a little off the grid. With limited wifi, a stay here is a true escape from the city and a chance to enjoy nature.

The closest major town: Luray – about 6 minutes
In the area: Like Skyland Resort, Brookside is located near the Blue Ridge Whisky Wine Trail and Luray Caverns. Plan to explore the trail of restaurants, wineries, and breweries after a hike in Shenandoah National Park.

Luxury Stays in the Shenandoah

L’Auberge Provençale

L’Auberge Provençale is a French-inspired bed and breakfast in Boyce – about 20 minutes north of Front Royal. Find beautifully decorated rooms with modern amenities for a weekend escape from the city. They offer Sunday brunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday. In-room dining is available for guests on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The closest major towns: Winchester and Front Royal – 20 minutes in separate directions
In the area: L’Auberge Provençale is about 15 minutes from Sky Meadows State Park which offers hiking and a monthly stargazing program. It’s also very close to the Virginia State Arboretum.

Iris Inn

Iris Inn is an adults-only retreat that covers 19 acres and includes cabins, cottages, and rooms in the main inn. Cottages offer slightly more space with a small kitchen. Escape the city with this secluded spot while still enjoying easy access to Waynesboro and a variety of restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

The closest major towns: Waynesboro – about 6 minutes
In the area: Enjoy the town of Waynesboro or take a trip to explore Grand Caverns. Explore many wineries and breweries nearby like Stable Craft Brewery, Bold Rock, Devils Backbone, and Silverback Distillery.

White Moose Inn

White Moose Inn offers 8 modern, comfortable rooms with breakfast and happy hour. Enjoy that remote cabin feel with a touch of luxury. White Moose Inn is a short drive from The Inn at Little Washington if you want to try their Michelin restaurant but rooms, while still a splurge, will run you about half the cost.

The closest major towns: Luray and Front Royal – about 30 minutes in opposite directions
In the area: In addition to The Inn at Little Washington, try other spots like Three Blacksmiths, The Black Twig, and Rappahannock Pizza Kitchen. You can also enjoy drinks at spots like Copper Fox Distillery, Pen Druid Brewery, Bar Francis, and Hinson Ford Cider & Mead.

The Inn at Little Washington

The Inn at Little Washington is the DC area’s only three-star Michelin restaurant. If you are in the area, it is worth a trip just to eat at the restaurant. However, to make the experience truly special, you can stay overnight on-site. The Inn offers a variety of luxury rooms in the Main Building, The Parsonage, and the Carter House plus 4 separate houses that can be rented out in their entirety. Be prepared to splurge – a night in one of the rooms is over $1,000.

The closest major towns: Luray and Front Royal – about 30 minutes in opposite directions
In the area: While you are there, explore Skyline Drive and nearby hiking trails. Check out wineries like Gadino Cellars, Grey Ghost Vineyards, and Little Washington Winery, which offer tastings and vineyard tours. The small town also features boutique shops and art galleries to explore.