The Omni Homestead Resort and Spa

Surprisingly, perfectly nestled in an Allegheny Mountain range, one can find the best place to experience Virginia’s dichotomy of history and natural beauty.  The Omni Homestead Resort and Spa is a towering and commanding brick structure that seems to rise out of a valley that’s surrounded by mountains. The historic resort is over 250 years old, yes, that’s older than the US itself and boasts the largest hot springs in Virginia.  The area was originally settled by Thomas Bullitt in 1766 for the curative powers of the waters discovered beneath the earth.  The original lodge evolved into a much larger and grander resort as the years went by, particularly after a fire destroyed it in 1901.

This is the kind of place that presidents and royals have been visiting for centuries and with a lure like that the resort doesn’t need to offer much more to draw guests; however, there’s an endless array of activities available for both adults and children.  To be frank, a weekend stay here won’t be enough.

Worth the Trek through Virginia’s Backcountry

Getting to the Homestead is to trek deep into Virginia’s backcountry even though it’s only a little more than an hour by car from Charlottesville and about three from D.C. The drive is filled with spectacular scenery and is an adventure in and of itself.  In this part of the country, wilderness and open spaces are the norm and as we follow a picturesque river, I imagine the trains once transporting the wealthy elite from Washington at the turn of the century.

Soaring Georgian columns and the faint tinkle of a live piano greets us in the lobby. I am instantly reminded of former dignitaries who’ve come here searching for a cure for their ailments.  Even in 1766, people were on the quest to find rejuvenation and better health.  Thomas Jefferson came in 1819 to take the cure for his rheumatism and stayed for 22 days.  Others who followed included Presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Woodrow Wilson, Dwight Eisenhower, William Taft, James Madison and James McKinley.

Impressive stylings amid a breathtaking landscape

The décor is typically Southern Traditional, and the vibe is formal but relaxed, with classic details, sumptuous furnishings and European sensibilities.  I’m instantly impressed by the rich color palette, and the variety of textures and patterns in our room.  Try to snag a suite overlooking the golf course and pool with a view of the landscape that is breathtaking.

The resort is known for exceptional service and hospitality.  In the past, guests would stay for at least two weeks and many families for the whole summer.  The Homestead is more than a hotel; it was and still is today a sort of luxury camp where you participate in outdoor activities year-round. That includes everything from horseback riding, tennis, hunting and kayaking to archery lessons and even alpine skiing in winter.  It’s also known for its championship golf courses which have been the scene of several national tournaments.  For parents needing a break from their kids, the resort provides babysitting and a kid’s club.

Testing the therapeutic waters

After reading about the benefits of the therapeutic waters, I decided to go for a soak myself. After a massage, I had access to the natural mineral hot springs pool and aqua thermal suite in the spa-garden for the rest of the day. The year-round geothermal pool is fed by two springs rich in magnesium, potassium and calcium with a temperature of 97 degrees, and as soon as I entered I felt calm and relaxed. The healing benefits are still debated today, but who wouldn’t feel better after a day at this oasis?

Tradition lives on

Tradition is alive and well at the Homestead, where the property’s focal restaurant is appropriately called the “Dining Room.” The ambience is indeed formal with guests dressed to the nines and live music, complete with a harp and vocalist.  The food is locally sourced and features fresh caught Allegheny Mountain trout and Virginia grass fed beef.  Additional dining includes the Jefferson’s and the Casino Restaurants and be sure not to miss out on afternoon tea served with cake in the lobby where you’ll be serenaded by a piano player next to a wood burning fireplace.

Indeed, there’s nothing quite like the distinctive Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. Guests have been returning here for generations, not only for the splendor and grandeur but also for the opportunity to convene with nature and let go of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To fully understand what the founders of the resort were on a mission to establish, one should plan for at least a few extra days of indulging.