Stonewall Resort claims to be close to home, but far from ordinary. Last weekend, my husband Jeff and I found that to be the case. We made a last-minute decision to warm up on a cold Saturday by sampling some barbeque and taking a dip in the warm resort waters. After putting in our day’s work, we threw some things into a suitcase and off we went. 

 

Just walking into the doors of the chic yet rustic lobby had a relaxing effect. And it was just minutes after Brianne – the very nice girl at the front desk - assigned us our lake-view room that we were slipping into the outdoor hot tub.  The steam coming off the indoor/outdoor pool looked inviting so we tested those waters too, engaging in a little backstroke as we looked up at the starry winter skies.

 

Later that evening, we attended the Bourbon, Beer and Barbeque event held in the resort’s Pecan Room. As the band played, dozens mingled, enjoying a sampling of foods such as sweet tea-brined turkey breast, beer braised angus beef short ribs and pulled pork sliders with an array of sweet, smoky and chile sauces available for their tasting pleasure. I’m not big on bourbon or beer, but the choices of both were vast, as were desserts like mini smooth amber pecan pies and bittersweet chocolate mousse  with moonshine cherries.

 

During our visit, we also had a chance to dine in the resort’s signature Stillwaters Restaurant. After settling into the massive wooden chairs with a nighttime view of the courtyard – we got our fill of fresh greens, steak and steamed veggies.

 

Before checking out on Sunday morning, we visited the resort coffee shop, opting for two fresh cups of European roast variety.  I then remembered that the resort’s Christmas Shoppe was open for the season. I only had a minute, but I peered into the boutique – not yet open for the day’s business – to get a glimpse of the holiday magic. The lady minding the store saw my nose pressed against the window and obliged in opening a few moments early so I could browse. Rooms of Christmas trees were exquisitely decorated with each ornament – as well as several other lovely items – available for purchase. I will be visiting again soon.

 

From the Route 50/I-79 intersection, a jaunt to Roanoke County's Stonewall Resort takes about 25 minutes. It is close to home and far from ordinary – which, regardless of the season – is a double delight. 

 

Visit the Stonewall Resort Web site HERE. 

 

Julie Perine can be reached at 304-848-7200, julie@connect-bridgeport.com or follow @JuliePerine on Twitter.

 

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