This delightful cottage has plenty of room to spread out. As soon as you enter your eyes go to the light-filled sun room overlooking the Creek. The living room’s comfortable and eclectic styles makes you feel right at home. The fully stocked open kitchen has a great layout (everything within reach), while the living room with built-in tv and gas fireplace will welcome you home after a busy day out-and-about. The primary sleeping quarters and bathroom with double sink and soaking tub are up one level. You will love the bedroom doors that open to let in the breeze and the sounds of nature. The lower level has a queen room and a room with two twins, both with ensuite bath, twin bathroom also accessible from the hallway. The queen room opens to the patio facing the trees and stream, with outdoor shower, hot tub, comfortable seating,, and the welcome sounds of nature. Gather ‘round the fire pit in the front and make lasting memories.

Virginia is the largest producer of fresh-wild catch and farm-raised oysters in the country. Oysters are farmed year-round, and they actively filter the water they are grown in. Each region produces oysters with distinct flavors, from briny to sweet, and they all pair well with the native Virginia wines you can find at Northern Neck wineries.

George Washington was born and lived his first three years at a large farm along Pope’s Creek. The lovely site, along with a large Visitor Center, recreations of the homestead, natural trails and farmland, and beautiful views of the tidewater lands similar to what George would have experienced, are preserved for the public. It’s a wonderful place to learn about Washington’s upbringing and future as a Virginia gentleman farmer.

Rent kayaks or paddleboards at the iconic Tide’s Inn on Carter’s Creek (call ahead to reserve) and relax afterward at their casual creekside restaurant. Or book a fancy meal at their upscale restaurant, and kick back with a cocktail overlooking Carter’s Creek.

Visit Reedville, where Maine sea captain Elijah Reed purchased the land in 1874 and began the menhaden fishing industry. Its location on a peninsula, jutting into Cockrell’s Creek, with a deep harbor and quick access to the Chesapeake Bay, made Reedville an ideal fishing port. The menhaden industry was so lucrative the town, with only 500 inhabitants, was once known as the wealthiest town in the United States.

To keep the kids happy, the Cottage is close to the new “Compass” Center, with 6 screen movie theater, go-carts, mini-golf, and rock climbing. Drive 10 min. to the larger town of Kilmarnock for shopping and more dining options.

There are also 3 lovely Virginia State Parks along the shoreline of the Northern Neck—Caledon and Westmoreland border the Potomac River, and Belle Isle hugs the Rappahannock River to the south. All of that shoreline offers beautiful views, boating, and birding.

Virginia’s Northern Neck is a peninsula surrounded by unique and beautiful marshes, creeks, the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay, so water views are all around you. When the weather is fair, you’ll find lots of opportunities to get out on the water. Bring a boat and explore the Lancaster and Westmoreland Water Trails. Rent a canoe or kayak at one of the state parks to explore smaller marshes and creeks. Arrange a fishing charter or a scenic river cruise on the Rappahannock, or cruise across the bay to remote Tangier Island for fresh blue crabs and a look at the watermen’s life.

The possibilities are endless. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a slower pace in the Northern Neck. You will be booking for next year before you leave!