17677 Raven Rocks Road, Bluemont, VA 20135

During the 1920s and 1930s, in order to escape the summer heat, Washingtonians built “stately cottages” on Raven Rocks Road in the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains, and these included Llanmeath Lodge. The original owners of Llanmeath had honeymooned in Wales in the 1930’s and upon returning to Virginia, asked their architect to design a Welsh hunting lodge, like the one where they stayed on their honeymoon. And so it is today. The house was constructed using stones from the mountain, and features architectural detailing similar to the enchanting Welsh lodges, including the welcoming wooden gate and stable-influenced courtyard. Once inside, the charm and drama of the expansive and stately great room, with stone walls, pine floors, massive stone fireplace and majestic views of the Shenandoah Valley, create an aura that is truly unique and magical. Over the years, various owners have added, renovated, reconfigured, and made this unique property their own, while retaining the spirit of the original home. Additions include a primary bedroom suite, an unattached carriage house with an apartment, a two-car garage, and a large attached storage shed. One of the most striking additions was the meticulously constructed conservatory, located next to the kitchen. Crafted by English artisans, this is an absolute gem, and provides the beautifully renovated kitchen ca. 2021, with eating and sitting room space. Opposite the kitchen suite is a private study and powder room, which can also serve as a guest bedroom or home office. Beyond the majestic great room, a charming library/family room shares the sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley through a wall of windows. A separate hall leads to the beautifully redone primary suite, with a luxurious new bathroom c. 2023, and gorgeous bedroom with propane fireplace and sweeping views of the valley. Next to the bedroom are two small sitting rooms, including one that opens to the gorgeous wisteria-draped deck and one that leads to the elevator connecting the main floor with the large lower level bunk room, hallway and half bath. ​The great room, an original feature, is without doubt one of the most striking features of the house, featuring two-story cathedral ceilings and a massive stone fireplace. Chandeliers and ceiling fans, reminiscent of a sophisticated, more refined era, elegantly light and cool the great room, while hardwood floors gleam throughout. This space is defined by twin sitting areas plus a dining area, embraced by charming built-in corner cabinets. With a wood-burning fireplace, cathedral ceiling, and unique chandeliers, the great room has hosted family Thanksgivings with plenty of seating, and a table set for fourteen. And with the benefit of many adaptable spaces, everyone has a place to sleep. The guest suite on the lower level opens out to the back garden on one side, and out to the St. Francis Garden on another. A full bathroom with tub and shower make this a private, comfortable and cozy place. Mature gardens surround the house along with wrought-iron fencing atop stone walls. A graceful yew hedge in the back frames a sublime view of the Shenandoah Valley and the Allegheny mountains in the distance. The lawn rolls down beyond the hedge to the forest and a stream where deer gather in the evening. The back porch, covered in wisteria, has provided the perfect setting for many parties over the years. This delightful country house, with its flexible layout, perfectly accommodates a range of lifestyles, from casual country living to a setting for more refined tastes. It is an easy house, one which conveys a spirit of hospitality and comfort. It is truly magical.