Keswick Hall: Keswick, Virginia
Drive time: 2½ hours.
What sets it apart: With just 48 rooms, lush grounds, and attentive service, Keswick is like the country estate of a wealthy friend—who has three pools. You’ll feel pampered and to the manner born.
Try not to miss: Tennis on clay courts; an infinity-edge pool, overlooking the Arnold Palmer golf course, that features underwater music and poolside service; dinner at C&O Restaurant’s cozy downstairs bistro, off Charlottesville’s lively pedestrian mall; tastings at nearby wineries such as Kluge Estate.
Great for kids? Not really.
More information: 888-778-2565; keswick.com.
Nemacolin Woodlands: Farmington, Pennsylvania
Drive time: About three hours.
What sets it apart: Out-of-the-ordinary activities, from off-road driving to winetasting to dogsled rides; lodging that ranges from a French-inspired chateau to a boutique hotel to an English Tudor–style lodge.
Try not to miss: The terrific Frank Lloyd Wright–influenced spa; the Kidz Spa with treatments such as up-dos and movie-star makeup; the challenging Mystic Rock golf course, designed by Pete Dye; cuisine that’s several cuts above that of most resorts—especially high-end Lautrec.
Great for kids? Definitely.
More information: 800-422-2736; nemacolin.com.
Omni Bedford Springs: Bedford, Pennsylvania
Drive time: Two hours.
What sets it apart: The hotel’s pastoral setting and historic authenticity evoke a genteel era when life was uncomplicated—especially for those who summered here.
Try not to miss: Golf on the celebrated Bedford Old Course; swimming in the historic indoor pool; the bath ritual (scrub, shower, steam, hot and cold plunges) before a spa treatment.
Great for kids? Best for children under 13.
More information: 814-623-8100; omnihotels.com.
Tides Inn: Irvington, Virginia
Drive time: 2½ hours.
What sets it apart: Overlooking tranquil Carters Creek, this intimate resort has drawn generations of boating families. Parents love the wholesome fun, from croquet to crabbing.
Try not to miss: A sailing school operating through mid-November (refreshing breezes make autumn a lovely time to sail); captaining your own cruise on an easy-to-operate, 16-foot electric Duffy; relaxing afterward with an aquatic-inspired spa treatment; the terrific Golden Eagle golf course.
Great for kids? Definitely.
More information: 800-843-3746; tidesinn.com.
