The Best Hotels to Book in West Virginia

Remember the holiday camp from Dirty Dancing? How could you not? While this may not be the real Kellerman’s, it’s pretty darn similar. Imagine a lakeside setting, 1,900-acres (768ha) of forested parkland and individual cottages and lakeside lodges – and that’s Stonewall. Get up early and watch the deer gather by the water, or play the resort’s novice-friendly golf course. There are free 15 minute lessons available if you need some tips, too.

This West Virginia enclave claims a special place in American history. The Hillbrook is located on George Washington’s first land purchase from 1750 and occupies a 30-acre (12ha) plot of woods, meadows and ponds. Though it’s just a one-hour drive from Washington DC, it exudes rural charm. Visit Virginia’s wine country, or head a few miles down the road to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park – home to relics of the Civil War. The 19 rooms and suites feature plush soft furnishings, a few include four-posters, but all are homely, modern-traditional in style. An on-site restaurant and spa mean you can toss away the car keys and stay in.

Operating as a hotel for over a century, this turreted red-brick grand dame retains many original old touches. Rooms in rouge and gold feature antique and reproduction lamps, porcelain – and an imposing four-poster bed. Local attractions include Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and no less than eight golf courses. Four? No, eight.

Golfers are spoilt for choice in Virginia. The Resort at Glade Springs has its own 18-hole championship golf course – set in the shadow of the Appalachian Mountains – and is considered in the top five courses in the state. Off course, rooms range from simple but comfortable to houses, villas, and lodges with their own full kitchens – where the largest sleeps up to 32 guests. Visit the spa to ease sore muscles after a few rounds and try the hot stone or deep tissue massage.

If you like an action-packed break, you’re in luck. Located on the park and estate land bequeathed to the city of Wheeling by Earl Oglebay in 1926, the Oglebay Resort includes holiday accommodation spread over cottages, estate houses and Wilson Lodge. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be short of something to do. Alongside outdoor and indoor pools, there’s championship golf, an ariel activity course, horse riding, Segway tours, tennis, a spa, zoo, hiking and walking trails – and a museum housed in the original colonnaded mansion.

Typically, you come to Lakeview to swing or get hitched – so to speak. Both a popular wedding venue and golfing mecca, this lakeside West Virginia hotel has not one but two championship golf courses. Play a few holes and take in the views of Cheat Lake and the Allegheny Mountains. Rooms feature patios over the lake, as well as pillowtop beds and blackout blinds for a good night’s rest. Explore the nearby Coopers Rock State Forest – or head into town for some nightlife and brews from a plethora of local craft breweries.

Hit the slopes at the Soaring Eagle, with the Soaring Eagle express lift and South Mountain of the popular Snowshoe ski resort, located directly beside the property. The resort is located at 4,848ft (1,477m) above sea level, so be sure to pack your snuggliest outdoor gear to explore its 11,000-acres (4,451ha). Come summer, make the most of downhill bike park, lake, concerts and festivals – and yes, a golf course. The lodge features an on-site restaurant, concierge service, slope-side access, hot tubs, balconies and gas fireplaces.

Another property at Snowshoe Ski Resort, the Allegheny is located in the central village area – close to the Ballhooter Lift. Accommodation ranges from a studio to a three-bedroom condo. Make use of the concierge service, ski storage, heated outdoor pool, sauna and if you’re a glutton for punishment, the fitness center – even after a hard day on the slopes.

Beautiful at any time of year, but we especially like the fall and winter at the Carriage Inn. There’s something about this centuries-old Charles Town Inn that feels festive and cozy. Grab a blanket, take a seat on its deep porch and watch the leaves fall from the trees. Just seven uniquely decorated rooms include antique furniture and wooden floors – and some come with fireplaces. It’s knitting season alright.

Morgantown’s Wharf and Warehouse Historic District – where former industrial warehouses sit between the Monongahela River and railroad tracks – is the picturesque setting for this Marriott property. With an eye on both the business and leisure traveler, there’s an indoor pool, Starbucks and restaurant on-site. Comfortable, modern rooms are in hues of smoke, mustard and aqua, with earthy touches including wood print art. Be sure to ask for a river view when booking.