Fly Drive USA

Depart the UK on your chosen flight to Washington Dulles International Airport. On arrival, collect your car and take the short 45 minute drive to Middleburg, in the heart of Loudoun County – known as DC’s Wine Country. Your first three nights are at the Salamander Middleburg, which is widely regarded as one of the most upscale properties in Virgina. This serene resort is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Should you prefer to spend some time in Washington, DC, we can include extra nights on your arrival, or at the end of the itinerary before you depart.

Rolling green hills, where horses roam and little winding roads take you far away from the life’s everyday troubles. On your first full day, why not take a tour of the numerous local wineries, serving award-winning vintages. Visit the spa for a soothing massage followed by a soak in the elegant infinity-edged pool. Tempt your taste buds with a culinary trip through the Virginia Piedmont with the chef’s curated tasting menu. Then end your night relaxing by the outdoor fire pits as fireflies dance through the air. For your second day, why not start with a brisk morning ride, part of  Salamander’s equestrian programme. Move on to a cooking class in the special demonstration kitchen or grab your clubs and enjoy exclusive golf privileges at nearby Creighton Farms. Take a wine and painting class or with nature as your classroom experience the thrill of partnering with a raptor in an Ultimate Falconry Experience. Stroll down the shaded streets of Middleburg and shop in the exclusive boutiques, then perhaps dine at the historic Red Fox Inn – favoured by Jackie Kennedy.

Today you depart for Charlottesville and Keswick Hall. Maybe take the scenic route and stop for lunch at The Inn at Little Washington to enjoy Patrick O’Connell’s inspired, Michelin award-winning cuisine, described by the critic’s as ‘so good it makes you cry’. After your meal, continue south towards the charming hamlet of Free Union where the elegant Waterperry Farm offers tours of their breathtaking botanical gardens should you wish. Once you’ve settled in at Keswick, why not experience the legendary Full Cry Golf Course, designed by Pete Dye; lounge at the luxurious infinity-edged pool; play year-round tennis on courts featuring European Red Clay surfaces; or indulge in the latest advances in wellness, wrapped in the wonders of nature at Keswick Hall Spa. On your second day, we suggest you spend your morning on Boars Head Resort’s Birdwood Golf Course, which is Audubon-certified and the official home course of the University of Virginia. Afterward, perhaps take a historical tour of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Madison’s Montpelier, or James Monroe’s Highland. Find yourself in downtown Charlottesville where you can explore unique shops and admire local art. Finish the day back at Keswick Hall where you can be treated to exceptional fine-dining at Marigold by Jean-Georges.

Alternative hotel choices in Charlottesville: Boars Head Resort, Omni Charlottesville

Next it is on to Richmond, where The Jefferson hotel waits to welcome you. Authentically opulent and eternally relevant, The Jefferson, has provided guests with an extraordinary travel experience for more than a century. Take a trip downtown to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for a personally curated tour of their remarkable collection of more than 35,000 works of art, including their renowned collection of Faberge. Savour the moment with The Jefferson’s Southern Afternoon Tea, under the magnificent Tiffany stained glass of their Palm Court lobby. Visit the tasting room at Reservoir Distillery and sip some of their award-winning bourbon. Discover the unique local boutiques along Cary Street. The culinary delights of Lemaire await you back at The Jefferson before you retire for the night.

Alternative hotel choice in Richmond: Omni Hotel Richmond

Williamsburg beckons. This is one of the nation’s top golf destinations, boasting more than a dozen courses designed by some of the most notable architects. Experience the elegance and sophistication of the historic Williamsburg Inn and gain access to the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club to play five star, club-quality courses without membership in an exclusive, colonial setting. Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, and is known for the significant role it played in the American Revolution. Together, with Jamestown and Yorktown, it forms what is called the Historic Triangle. The heart of the triangle is Colonial Williamsburg; a historic district and living-history museum where actors in period costume depict day-to-day Colonial life in the streets, restored stores and workshops. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride and dine at one of the three colonial taverns. Spend some time exploring Merchants Square, located adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg. The square offers a charming shopping and dining experience and the area is filled with unique boutiques, art galleries and restaurants, providing visitors with a change to indulge in local cuisine and find souvenirs and crafts.

Alternative hotel choices in Williamsburg: Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg Lodge

The last stop on this wonderful itinerary is Virginia Beach. It is home to The Historic Cavalier Resort and Beach Club, where US presidents and celebrities stayed and played for nearly 100 years. The iconic hotel has been reimagined and beautifully restored to its original grandeur, offering travellers all the elegance of yesterday, with the comfort of today’s modern amenities. Enjoy private access to the Oceanfront’s most exclusive and contemporary beach club. Perhaps kayak with dolphins for an incredible experience with some of the area’s well-known locals or let the talented therapists at the Seahill Spa work the kinks out of your tired muscles, before dining on local fare at the sophisticated Becca. For an indulgence, wind down the day with a glass of bourbon from Tarnished Truth Distilling Company, the nations first craft spirits distillery located inside a luxury hotel.

Alternative hotel choice in Virginia Beach: Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Your luxurious journey comes to an end. Should you wish, you can extend your holiday in Virginia Beach or with a stay in Washington, DC. If not, you return your car rental at Washington Dulles International Airport, and check in for your flight back to the UK.