Shenandoah Valley
 

We are planning a trip to the Shenandoah Valley and Asheville, NC this summer, from New Jersey. Any suggestions about nice places to stay en route. We are looking for upscale, luxurious accommodations.

If you are coming down I-81 and want to stop early in Virginia, I would suggest the Strasburg Hotel in Strasburg, or the River'd Inn in Woodtock. The River'd Inn is so named because you have to cross a low water bridge to get there from route 11, and if the Shenandoah River is up because of heavy rains, you become rivered in.

This month's issue of Frommer's Budget Travel has an article on the Shenandoah Valley. Since it's focus is on budget travel, the lodging recommendations probably aren't what you are looking for, but the other information in the article might be useful to you.

I grew up in the Shenandoah Valley and still consider it one of the most beautiful places in the world--but I'm probably a little biased. In my home town is the Jordan Hollow Inn. It may not be as luxurious as you are looking for, but it has a great location.

Jordan Hollow Farm may not be luxurious but it is very comfortable and it has an amazing restaurant.