Hidden Tips

Porch Sunset: Spend some time on the wrap-around porch with a glass of wine or iced tea in the late afternoon. The mansion’s elevation above most of the town provides one of the best views available, across the valley to distant ridges where the sun sets. This is what experiences at this property are all about.

The "Resort" Alternative: Stay here. Play there. The two most famous luxury resorts in this part of the world are just a half-hour drive from Hillcrest-the Homestead (in Hot Springs) and the Greenbrier (in White Sulphur Springs)-and both allow outside booking for their spas and golf courses. Check in at Hillcrest, check out a day of pampering or play, then return to Hillcrest for your actual overnight.

Dinner Reservations: Clifton Forge is a small town. Restaurants such as Jack Mason's Tavern or The Club Car Shop get busy or can close early (between 8:00 and 9:00 PM). Ask the innkeeper to make a reservation for you, or find out the hours, so you do not end up hungry.

Layers. Nights get cool in the mountains, no matter how hot it gets during the day-in summer. More so if you're sitting out on that porch after dark. Bring a light sweater or jacket to make sure you can use those great outdoor spaces at night.

Train Spotting: If you are a railfan, ask for a room that might have a view towards the tracks (or just listen). The sound of the trains echoing through the valley is atmospheric and part of the town's charm, though the mansion is high enough up that it isn't disturbingly loud.