Full from Thanksgiving eats and in need of a quick getaway, I headed to Lansdowne Resort in the scenic Hunt Country of Loudoun County, Virginia. Designed to exude the casual elegance of a country manor, Lansdowne is located just 35 miles from Washington, D.C. and is the premier, full-service resort of the capital region.
A AAA Four Diamond property, the resort recently underwent a $55 million renovation and features 305 guest rooms, 14 suites, five restaurants, a 12,000 square foot spa, two championship golf courses and more. During my stay I experienced the fabulous Three Dimensional Hydrating Facial at Spa Minérale, homemade sorbets at the Golf Club, signature cocktails from the resident mixologist and wine pairings at the resort’s upscale On The Potomac restaurant.
EAT - Select On The Potomac at Lansdowne Resort for fine regional American cuisine, utilizing fresh local ingredients, The Riverside Hearth for regional specialties served buffet or a la carte style, or enjoy casual fare in Stonewalls Tavern. After a round of golf, venture over to the clubhouse (resort guests and members only) and dine at the Crooked Billet and enjoy the views of the beautifully groomed golf course or enjoy sports and a burger at the Pub 46.
SPA - Enjoy body treatments, massages, luxurious facials and peppermint pedicures at Spa Minérale. Drawing inspiration from Virginia’s mineral rich environment, the spa’s signature product line uses botanicals from the Flowering Dogwood, Virginia’s official tree and flower and all natural ionic minerals from nearby luck goose with properties known to heal, detoxify and balance the skin. 
VISIT - The nation’s first wines were produced in Virginia over 400 years ago and today Virginia ranks fifth in the country among vinifera grape-growing states. With almost 100 wineries statewide, 40 within an hours drive and 20 in Loudoun County alone, Lansdowne Resort is truly in the middle of Virginia Wine Country. Schedule a private wine tour with Reston Limousine and make sure you visit Corcoran Vineyards.
For more information on things to see and do in Virginia visit www.virginia.org and www.virginiawine.org.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".