Fall Weekends 2009: Keswick Hall

The Mood
With just 48 rooms, an attentive staff, and lush grounds, Keswick is like the country estate of a wealthy friend—one who has three swimming pools.

What’s Special

The divine infinity-edged pool, overlooking the Arnold Palmer golf course, features underwater music and poolside service for lunch and drinks. The pool closes after Labor Day; there’s also an indoor pool, open year-round.

Most Unusual Activities

Unusual? Not much—this resort’s offerings are classic: golf, tennis, spa. There are excursions to go hot-air ballooning, fly fishing, and clay shooting.

For Kids

While they’re welcome, this somewhat hushed and formal Orient-Express property is not really for children. There are no formal activities for kids.

The Food

Fossett’s is a jacket-and-tie option, while the Palmer Room offers lighter fare. The poolside menu is very good—we can vouch for the chicken wrap, garlic and truffle tortilla chips, and ice-cream sandwich.

What’s Nearby
Charlottesville’s lively pedestrian mall; dinner at C&O’s cozy downstairs bistro; Kluge Estate’s winetasting in a gorgeous setting.

Drive Time

2½ hours.

The Price
$195 and up per room per night; $395 and up on fall weekends. Packages can make the tab less taxing.

Bottom Line
You’ll feel pampered and to the manner born. 

Ann Limpert
Executive Food Editor/Critic

Ann Limpert joined Washingtonian in late 2003. She was previously an editorial assistant at Entertainment Weekly and a cook in New York restaurant kitchens, and she is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education. She lives in Petworth.