YOUR EXPECTATIONS
A retreat is and can be what you wish to make it. Some want to unwind and contemplate with minimal physical activity. Some want to learn new things and like a high amount of physical activity and mental stimulation. Some like a little of both. We are quite unstructured and therefore can offer you any of the above. Tell us about your needs in the "Contact Us" area and we will make the best effort at giving you the retreat experience you desire and need.
AT THE COTTAGE
Books, garden croquet, tea, lounging on the lawn, and cable TV.
We also have per appointment, the services of a masseuse, yoga instructor and manicurist. We also have a expresso/latte bar and a business center with DSL internet/printer and fax.
SEASONAL ACTIVITIES
Following the turn of the agricultural year, we have lambing, haying, chick raising, and gardening. Hayrides are available on certain evenings during June and September. Skywatching is great during any month, but the winter months are best. Guided Flyfishing adventures are available for 1 person or up to 4 on the James River
GARDENS AND FARM
Spend quiet time in our beautiful gardens. There are many places to sit and read, birdwatch, or meditate. Hike the farm or National Forest paths to see a variety of flora and fauna. Fish or canoe the James River or lovely Spouts Run nearby. Sit in the fields and commune with nature and the farm animals.
FLYFISHING ON THE JAMES RIVER
Includes light lunch and refreshments
Rates
Half Day, 6 hrs: $146.00 for one person
Full Day, 8-10 hrs: 250.00 for one person
Additional persons can be added for $50.00/ea up to 4 per trip
RIVER TRIPS-Kayaking or Canoeing
We can arrange kayak/canoe trips for one or more ladies that last about from 2.5 to 4 hours and involve a trip from the put-in at Buchanan and put out at the farm. No experience needed. Life jackets supplied. See river animals, caves, and remnants of the canal lock system. There are some exciting Class I rapids on the trip.
Rates for Canoe/Kayaking
$30.00/person, includes life jacket, watercraft of your choice
$10.00/person for shuttle service
HIKING: The farm joins with the National Forest with some spectacular trails or hike the farm and doze by the river.
SHOPPING
Buchanan is a lovely main street town filled with great shops, churches, turn of the century architecture and eateries.
EATS: If you do not wish to have catering, your group can either bring food to cook in our kitchen or go to the wonderful Mountain View restaurant close in to the farm. Good stick to your ribs home cooking. There are other eateries including pizza and Italian, German in downtown Buchanan along with a coffee shop.
NATIONAL FOREST
There are many trails, but nearby Wilson Mountain Trail, by far offers the most scenery and interest. The trail follows Spouts Run for a great length, has handmade stone steps up the mountainside and offers great views of the farm and surrounding areas.
NEARBY INTERESTS
Natural Bridge, Lexington, Roanoke City Market, Blue Ridge Parkway, Peaks of Otter. Many sites to explore during your visit to the Southern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.
