As a New York City dweller, I’m no stranger to the perks of living in a bustling metropolis. However, there’s one thing that always seems to be lacking – space. And quiet. So, when I embarked on a weekend trip to Charlottesville, Virginia, to attend a dear friend’s baby shower, I was determined to find a place that would provide me with the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. After scouring the apartments and townhouses directly in the college town, I expanded my search to the wider Charlottesville area, and that’s when I stumbled upon a true gem – a rustic two-bedroom cottage situated on a 400-acre farm in Crozet, about a 35-minute drive from the Downtown Mall.
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The property’s remote location was a major draw for me, as I was eager to escape the chaos of city life and immerse myself in nature. As we drove down the long, unpaved dirt road, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the picturesque yellow house of the host family, which seemed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. It was as if we had entered a world of our own, surrounded by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.
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The cottage itself was a cozy retreat, exuding a summer camp feel that immediately put us at ease. A badminton net out front beckoned us to play a game, while a hammock, grill, and Adirondack chairs surrounding a firepit in the back invited us to linger and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The screened-in porch was the perfect spot to soak up the serene atmosphere, sip a cup of coffee, and read a good book. For the more creatively inclined, an easel, canvas, and paints were available, and a shelf of board games and puzzles in the front hall closet provided endless entertainment options.
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Given the property’s remote location, we made sure to stock up on provisions before arriving, as the nearest general store was about a 15-minute drive away. However, the host family had thoughtfully provided a comprehensive guidebook with food, drink, and activity recommendations, including playlists of local bluegrass music. We consulted it before heading to Pro Re Nata for pizza and live music, and were not disappointed.
For those looking to explore the area’s many wineries, we were in luck – Stinson Vineyards was just down the road, and we stopped by Carter Mountain Orchard for views, apple cider donuts, and Bold Rock cider. The property’s proximity to these attractions made it the perfect base for our weekend getaway.
Inside the cottage, we were charmed by the eclectic mix of vintage furniture and decor. Funky armchairs and layers of rugs added a coziness to the space, while Architectural Digest magazines from the ’80s and a coffee table that may or may not have once been a drum added a touch of whimsy. The two bedrooms, one on each floor, and a small office upstairs made it the perfect retreat for two, though it could accommodate up to four guests. Past guests seemed to include a mix of couples, small families, and groups of girlfriends, all of whom had clearly fallen in love with the property’s charm.
As we reluctantly said goodbye to our sweet weekend home, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. However, I was also excited to make a return visit, and to say hello to Sampson, the family’s pony, who roamed the property along with two sheep. All the more reason to plan another trip and experience the serenity of this hidden gem for myself.
