What it is

On 12,000-acres of untouched land in the Blue Ridge mountains, with an ultra luxe lodge and cottages and activities galore (from tomahawk throwing to golfing a course by Donald Steel).

What it isn't

Go-go-go. If you want to hole up in the Native American-inspired spa for a Dragonfly Anti-Aging Facial and Arnica Muscle Repair treatment, you wouldn’t be the first.

What we think

Sweet dreams are made of this. Primland is easily one of the most eye-popping resorts in America, and that starts with its cinematic setting: dreamily perched atop rolling Blue Ridge mountain hills like a bald eagle surveying the land. Guest rooms are nothing short of a delight, thanks to 400-thread-count Frette linens, fireplaces, and private balconies that peep out on the abundant forests beyond the floor to ceiling windows. For special occasions, we recommend the Tree Houses; cedar-walled Cooper’s Hawk is slung between two old-growth trees, with a 564-square-foot deck that overlooks Roaring Creek as it pulses through the leafy Kibler Valley. Wherever you opt to stay, don’t miss the many perks in the lodge itself, including the two-story wine room and an observatory dome for taking in the stars.

You're here because

You aim to be as carbon-neutral as possible, especially on vacation, and Primland has a fervent environmental ethos, from the organic produce they grow in their own gardens to the energy-efficient structures themselves. That the surrounding forests of hickory, poplar, beech and black gum trees remain untrammelled says it all.

The Moment

Locavore meals don’t get any better than your breakfast at Elements, the hotel’s Virginia Highlands restaurant. You gear up for your morning hike the best way possible: buttermilk pancakes with farmhouse butter and Virginia maple syrup, a plate of Virginia ham on the side.

Restaurants & Bars

elements - Farm to Table dining (Reservation Required)

19th Pub - Draught beers, single malts and cocktails paired with hearty pub fare

Stables Saloon - Private parties and event space on the second floor of a former horse stable

Location

Secreted away high in the Blue Ridge Mountains on charmingly-named Busted Rock Road, a four hour drive from Richmond and just two hours north of Charlotte, North Carolina.