Romance abounds at these Virginia bed-and-breakfasts

For a beach getaway: Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles

In Cape Charles, you can enjoy everything from wineries and art galleries to winter oyster roasts. Jim and Tammy Holloway, owners of the centrally located Bay Haven Inn, invite you to relax, unwind, and reconnect at this 1906 Colonial Revival home.

Stay in the James Wilson Room (starting at $229 a night), and add the Lovers Package ($100), which includes wine, silk rose petals strewn across your bed, an assortment of romantic gifts, and chocolate-covered strawberries made by Jim himself.

Time slows down as you explore the inn, which has plenty of nooks and crannies to get lost in. Warm up in front of the fireplace in one of the living rooms or walk 4 blocks to the public beachfront and watch the sunset.

For breathtaking views: Inn at Riverbend

Retreat into nature at the Inn at Riverbend in Pearisburg, which features gorgeous views of the New River and the Appalachian Mountains.

Take in the scenery from the Palisades room (starting at $284 a night), which features a queen 4-poster bed, a jetted tub, and large windows that overlook the river and mountains. All rooms have access to a semi-private deck that’s perfect for morning sunrise viewing and nighttime stargazing.

Up the romance with one of the inn’s packages. “In the Mood for Love” ($295 extra) includes flowers, refreshments, wine, and an in-room Swedish couple’s massage.

For mental stimulation, check out the library’s book collection or work on a puzzle by the fireplace. To stretch your legs, take a short scenic drive to Cascade National Recreation Trail and hike a 4-mile round-trip path that includes a stop at a 66-foot waterfall.

For historic charm: The Red Fox Inn and Tavern

For a destination where the locale will inspire conversation, look no further than the Red Fox Inn and Tavern in Middleburg. Its iconic central building was built in 1728. Since then, the property has grown to include 22 rooms over 5 buildings that fuse “modern touches and classic Virginian character,” according to General Manager Matilda Reuter Engle. 

Room 2—Orange County (starting at $369 a night), is a spacious 2-room suite that sits above the property’s restaurant and overlooks Main Street. For a truly lavish experience, consider Room 15—The Derby in the Carriage House (starting at $489 a night), equipped with a cast-iron soaking tub, a fireplace, and a reading nook in front of large windows.

When hunger strikes, make your way down to The Tavern, where you and your special someone can relish a 4-course dinner by the fire. Before the night dies down, indulge in a glass of house-made mulled cider topped with spiced butter at the Night Fox Pub in the main building.

For a quiet respite: Garden and Sea Inn

While centrally located on the Eastern Shore in New Church, the Garden and Sea Inn maintains a sense of seclusion that’s perfect for couples looking to get away. Spread over 5 acres, the adults-only retreat offers accommodations in the charming Victorian House (which dates to 1802), the Garden House (built in 1870), or the Yellow House.

Owner Grace Bale recommends the Chardonnay Room or Merlot Suite (rates starting at $249). Accommodations in the Victorian House come with king-size beds, fireplaces, and double Jacuzzis. Looking for more privacy? The Chablis Suite has a private entrance, double whirlpool tub, fireplace, and private balcony overlooking the woods.

Start your trip on a sweet note, with cake for 2 waiting in your room upon arrival (requested in advance for an extra charge). Later, explore the gardens and ponds around the property or snuggle up with your loved one by the firepit. In the warmer months, cool down with a dip in the outdoor pool.

“It’s very peaceful, quiet, and relaxing,” says Bale of the property. “You’re out of the busyness, yet close enough to enjoy all the different places on the Eastern shore.”

For old-school glamour: Trinkle Mansion

At Trinkle Mansion in Wytheville, you can escape into the glamour of the early 20th century without sacrificing modern comforts. The home dates to 1912 and features 4 rooms and a private garden cottage.

Owner Patti T. Pizinger recommends the Rosspoint Room (starting at $169 per night), which is outfitted with a fireplace and pillowtop mattress that’ll have you repeatedly hitting the snooze button.

Once you find the motivation to leave the comfort of your room, snag a couch in the stately gentlemen’s parlor or the elegant ladies’ parlor, or play a game of chess by the fire in the cozy library. In the morning, make your way to the dining room for a 3-course breakfast; guests rave about Pizinger’s cooking, praised for being both delicious and beautifully presented.

For on-site exploring: The Inn at Mount Vernon Farm

Luxury and Southern hospitality intersect at the Inn at Mount Vernon Farm. The stately property features beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Built in 1827 as a family home and dairy farm, the 5-room inn and freestanding cabin now offer guests an elegant escape.

Get a glimpse of the past with a stay in the Cabin (starting at $289 per night). Built as a summer kitchen, the Cabin is adorned with wood details, a stone fireplace, and a porch. General Manager Dawn Andreoni also suggests the Owner’s Suite (starting at $279), which features a claw-foot soaking tub and sunroom, or the Brief Room (starting at $249), a converted library that has a fireplace and a bar with a mini fridge, a sink, and glassware.

“This is a getaway that is quiet, where you can relax and feel like you’re in a private cocoon,” says Andreoni. “You can really ease into the land and enjoy the beauty of natural scenery and have that respite.”

Saunter hand in hand along 2 private hiking trails on the approximately 640-acre property, or take in the mountain views from the spacious porches. If you’re feeling competitive, try your hand at bocce ball.

The lush grounds, which include apple and peach trees, are lovely in spring and summer, but Andreoni says the inn is also perfect for a winter retreat. “If you’re looking for a more private getaway, the winter months are the time to do that,” she says. “We have a cedarwood hot tub and winter is the best time for couples to soak and enjoy that cool air on your face. If the snow is falling at the same time, that’s just the icing on the cake.”