CHECKING IN: The Lodge at Primland
Let’s check in and check out this spectacular, slightly off-grid, deeply comfortable mountain hideaway in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, shall we?
THE WHERE:
Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia
THE WHAT:
Spread across a huge stretch of land in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Lodge at Primland, Auberge Collection feels intentionally removed from everything. The main lodge sits high with wide-open views, while cottages and treehouses are tucked further into the landscape if you want more privacy. Rustic elegance is the name of the game—well-appointed rooms (each with a stunning view) with rough hewn beams and country quilts framing fine bedding and leather walls . You get the sense pretty quickly that the setting is the main attraction, and the hotel knows better than to compete with it—though the soaring vaulted living room with double fireplaces is pretty good competition.
THE WHEN:
Fall is the obvious moment—cool air, changing leaves and views that go on forever. Spring and summer lean greener, with longer days that make it easy to fill your time outside or do absolutely nothing without guilt. Winter is quieter, a bit moodier and leans heavily on fireplaces, good food and not having anywhere you need to be. The good thing about an Auberge property is they know how to keep you busy no matter the season. So, pick a vibe and book it—you won’t arrive at a bad time.
The YUM:
Food here is straightforward in a good way. The central restaurant, Leatherflower, offers up seasonal ingredients, regional influence and dishes that are satisfying without trying to prove a point. Dinner tends to be a slower affair, especially if you’ve spent the day outside, and it’s easy to settle in for longer than planned. For more casual fare head to Laurel Bar, or discover Southern food at it’s best at the Stable Saloon (don’t miss that pimento cheese!) Food in the form of experience is available around the property, including a foraging lesson and seasonal featured chefs that will cook up local fare.
Whet Your Whistle: Go for 'The Snoot' with bourbon, apple, maple, and smoked Virginia cherry bitters.
The WHY?:
Because it gives you space. Space to be outside, space to slow down, space to not fill every minute. But if it moves you, there’s no shortage of activities—from horseback riding, hiking, a ropes course, to—of course—their world-class golf course. Or just sit on the expansive terrace and admire the sweeping views. And after dinner, why not stargaze from the lodge’s own observatory?
