There is no place I would rather be in autumn than in the mountains, especially the Blue Ridge Mountains. I have been traveling to this incredible mountain range for over two decades now and each time I visit I fall deeper in love. My husband and I were invited by the Peaks of Otter Lodge to experience their property, which is in the midst of celebrating its 50th Anniversary, and it was perfect timing, as I was desperate for some cooler weather due to my ever expanding belly. The drive along Highway 81 from North Carolina to Virginia is stunning — I wish my daily commute was always this scenic! As we arrived to the Blue Ridge Parkway the fog from the rain earlier in the day engulfed us and created a magical glow throughout the forest.
The Peaks of Otter Lodge could not be found in a more picturesque or peaceful setting. Even though it was cloaked in fog, it was still easy to see why people from all over the world would visit. This region of Virginia has drawn travelers due to its unrivaled natural beauty for more than 8,000 years. In the mid-1900’s, the location was selected for special attention by the National Parks Service. Abbott Lake was constructed and Peaks of Otter Lodge opened in 1964.
You can expect quaint rooms at the Peaks of Otter Lodge with comfortable beds, flat screen TVs, Keurig machines, and gorgeous views of the lake. The property is fiercely dedicated to protecting the environment and you will see subtle reminders everywhere of their green initiatives. Since it was chilly outside, we decided to get an afternoon tea in the hotel’s restaurant.
When visiting, a quick stop in their gift shop is a must! I really loved their handmade mugs, paintings of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and otter stuffed animals.
Before our delicious seafood buffet dinner we decided to do a quick impromptu maternity shoot to celebrate the halfway point in my pregnancy. I cannot believe we will be meeting our son in less than 20 weeks.
One thing is for certain, we will definitely be returning to the Peaks of Otter Lodge with Joaquín Alejandro in the future!
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This place sounds so relaxing….great post. I will keep this in mind the next time I go to Virginia.
It is SO relaxing!!! Let me know if you go!
Another beautiful escape Andi. Congratulations on your pregnancy! Looking forward to some travelling with baby posts coming up!
Thank you sooo much!!! 🙂
What a setting! And I love your creative photography. Gorgeous.
That fog really does make for a captivating scene, and I just LOVE the idea of warm tea in a lodge like that. Just the best. I live for those moments.
Awww thank you so much for your kind words re: my pics — they mean SO much to me!
Wonderful news about the little one. Just think this time next year you’ll be looking forward to your first Christmas with him / her! Congratulations (and love the atmospheric photos you’ve posted here by the way).
Thank you so much!!! And yes, I can’t wait to celebrate our 1st Xmas with Joaquín, so exciting!!!
That first picture is so gorgeous! As, of course, are the last few 🙂
Thank you, but not as gorgeous as you! 🙂