The Homestead

The Homestead resort, about 90 miles from Roanoke in the Alleghany Mountains, exudes history. This National Historic Landmark opened before the American Revolution and has lured royalty and the elite to its hot-water springs ever since, including 22 U.S. presidents. The resort started with a 300-acre payment to a militia officer, on which he built a lodge near the hot springs in 1766. That parcel is at the core of the resort that now spreads over 3,000 acres and includes a ski resort, three golf courses, a spa, shops and restaurants.

Today, there are 483 rooms of various sizes, from classic rooms to three types of suites, including five president suites.

The Jefferson Pools, the oldest continuously operating spas in the country, are both spring fed, the water arriving at a comfortable 98 degrees. The Homestead also has a fitness center, a library, nightly movies, bowling and afternoon tea.

Outside, the Homestead includes the South’s first downhill skiing area and three golf courses: The Cascades designed by William Flynn, the Old Course by Donald Ross and Lower Cascades, a Robert Trent Jones Sr. course. There is also the 48-stable Equestrian Center and show ring; and a shooting club.

Golf at The Homestead