The Best Hotels to Book Near the Peaks of Otter in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia 

This stylish hotel – under the Hilton umbrella – has been an eminent feature of Lynchburg since 1913, and its current iteration combines historic detail with modern style. The classy accommodation mixes tasteful tones with upmarket finishing – enjoy the high-thread-count bedding, luxurious bathrooms, coffee-makers and free wifi. There’s a fitness center, a rooftop restaurant and bar, an excellent steakhouse, and you’re only 11 minutes on foot from Riverfront Park and 10mi (16km) from the airport.

Another offering from Hilton’s upmarket Curio Collection, this Tudor Revival hotel – built in 1882 – is on the National Register of Historic Places. The restored antique decor is deftly blended with modern comforts – see the seasonal pool, the wood-paneled pub, and the elegant gourmet restaurant – and the enclosed walkway delivers you to the Taubman Museum of Art and Downtown Roanoke.

It’s all about the scenery at this hotel, as it sits proudly on the Peaks of Otter Lake. The picturesque property is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, and there’s a restaurant with waterside views serving regional cuisine and seafood. Every room has mountain or lake views, providing a relaxing environment in which to unwind. Make use of the shuttle to Sharp Top Mountain and local vineyards – coming in super handy after an afternoon spent wine-tasting.

A top-rated B&B, this outdoorsy, woodland spot sits perfectly in the beautiful surroundings of its lush location, just minutes away from Explore Park, Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail – and only 10 minutes by car from downtown Roanoke and 50 minutes from Smith Mountain Lake. There are large guest suites – all rendered with natural materials – plus a wonderful pool and even a collection of hot rod cars.

In this equestrian offering – their motto is “Live. Love. Ride.” – 12 different accommodation options range from simple beds to an entire cottage. Each night’s stay comes with a complimentary, three-course breakfast and the comfortable rooms – rendered in a quaint country style – all have their own unique character. Facilities include an outdoor pool, an outdoor jacuzzi and a well-equipped games room. Make your way there for a full-size pool table, foosball, books, and (you guessed it) copious board games.

Reliable as they come, this friendly place is set on a quaint, tree-lined street in Roanoke, among boutique shops and eateries. Just a short walk from the City Market and Elmwood Park – and within half a mile (800m) of the Virginia Museum of Transportation and the Taubman Museum of Art – this Hampton Inn has a truly fantastic location. There’s free breakfast and a gym, while the bright and modern accommodation offers everything you need for a relaxed and enjoyable stay.

Ideally located as a base from which to explore the Otter Peaks, this pet-friendly budget hotel is less than 7mi (11km) from the Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library and under 8mi (13km) from Liberty Lake Park. There’s an outdoor pool, free parking, laundry facilities and BBQ grills – and every one of the comfortable rooms comes with free wifi, a TV, desk, microwave, mini-fridge and tea- and coffee-making facilities – plus a complimentary continental breakfast each morning.

Another solid budget offering from Wyndham, the Super 8 is conveniently located off Route 460 – at the foot of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains – giving access to scenic views and Appalachian attractions, including Smith Mountain Lake. All rooms include ensuite bathrooms and TV with HBO, plus microwaves, mini-fridges and coffee-makers. There’s free wifi in every room and a complimentary continental breakfast, too.