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The Homestead is a *beautiful* resort located in Hot Springs, VA. It's very old (1766), very large (486 rooms and suites), and very luxurious (I can't afford a Tic Tac -- *one* Tic Tac). I was fortunate enough to be visiting someone that lived in nearby Warm Springs that could afford The Homestead and took us all out for dinner there. The service was impeccable and the food was delicious! Fresh Caesar salad made to order right in front of you -- including the dressing and the souffle was ordered before dinner and came out nice and hot for dessert. They popped the thing and stirred in some kind of liquer to it -- never experienced anything like it before (or since). Like most resorts, they had shops on the first floor. It was like walking an indoor Worth Ave. (FL) or Rodeo Dr. (CA) -- but with better lighting. They offer seasonal packages that, if you're saving up for a great vacation, wouldn't be far out of reach. I don't know much else, but you can check out their web site at http://www.thehomestead.com/index2.asp. more

This place is the most amazing resort I have been to in my life. Everything is catered to your whim from the second you pull up to the front porch. It is amazingly huge and there are perfect little seating and conversation areas throughout the hotel. There are chess and checkerboards set up all around in out of the way nooks...should you feel up to a game. And their spa is the best of the best. I've been to many spas, but this one took my breath away. It wasn't overly ornate with amenities, but there was plenty of room to relax and you could in either all same sex or co-ed locations. You could steam or take a sauna in between treatments if you wished. You HAVE to have the mineral bath in the spa! It is the most decadent feeling. You are completely supported by fresh naturally heated mineral water as bubbles track their way up your spine. Then the water is continually overflowing...just a feeling not to be missed. Even my husband enjoyed his and he isn't a bath person. I would love to go again! This time I'll take the waters at the Jeffersonian pools. more

This is such a great place to go. It is about 20 minutes from where I grew up, and about an hour and a half from Roanoke I believe. They have horseback riding, GOLF, fine dining, Jefferson Pools, (natural hot springs - bathing suits not required), a WORLD CLASS spa... It was #13 I think in Conde Nast's top 50 spas. I recommended the entire resort, but don't go without getting some type of service in the spa. Your stay includes use of the indoor pool in the spa area, which is natrually heated spring water. You can also use the sauna and steam rooms, which are scented with eucalyptus oil and are amazingly relaxing. The spa services are extensive as well as expensive, but worth EVERY PENNY! I feel like I am in another time when I am there. It is so close to home, yet it is really a place to go if you want to get away. They also have winter sports, and they decorate beautifully for the holidays, which can be a very busy time for them. more