Virginia’s 'cabin capital' with over 600 stay options is an underrated weekend getaway

There’s no better way to unwind than to connect with nature, especially if that involves being in the mountains, which have beckoned centuries of travelers to experience a slower pace. If you crave a hiatus from the busy throes of life, Virginia’s Page Valley is the ideal place to get away. It’s no secret to those in nearby urban areas who visit often, which is why plenty of carefully appointed cabins await—so many that the area is called the Cabin Capital of Virginia.

While this stretch of Virginia beckons those looking to trade a packed itinerary for something more laid back, there are plenty of things to do if you so choose. The locale is rich in history, the arts, and creative ways to enjoy the outdoors. It even has a thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy a stunning view for a week or want to pepper your time with exploring local towns, you can find it all in Page Valley. Here’s what you need to know.

Where Is Page Valley?

Northwestern Virginia’s Page Valley is situated in the Shenandoah Valley between Massanutten Mountain and the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it the perfect backdrop for a view-filled getaway. It encompasses the towns of Stanley, Luray, and Shenandoah, providing spots to explore, eat, and shop. Because of its proximity to more metropolitan areas—it’s only 90 miles from Washington, D.C., 120 miles from Richmond, and 325 miles from Charlotte—it calls metropolitan travelers to come and stay a while.

Where To Stay

With approximately 700 cabins, it only makes sense to book one to have the full Page Valley experience. A large number of cabins means that there’s a healthy selection so you can find one to suit your needs, whether you’re booking a romantic getaway or need a six-bedroom house to host the entire family.

​Groups of two can enjoy cozying up inside the sought-after above-ground Hobbit House or stay at the 144-square-foot, aptly named Little Bitty Cabin tucked into the woods. If you crave a bit more space for a small group, the Falling Leaf Cabin has two rusticly modern bedrooms, or you can view the Shenandoah Valley from the screened-in porch at Kalmia Cabin.

​Families or groups should consider booking the peaked ceiling Shenandoah Yurt or the waterside A River Landing. For the ultimate combination, Pinnacle Cabin features full king bedrooms, each with a private bath, so you can enjoy wide valley views from the porch or hot tub, then retreat into your own space. To plan a family reunion or get the whole gang together, book the six-bedroom Chadwick Cabin or The Lodge, which has 10 bedrooms and sleeps 30.

Best Things To Do

Get Outside

Those who enjoy hiking should head to the Appalachian Trail, the George Washington National Forest, or Shenandoah National Park to hike to a waterfall or breathe deeply in the woods. For a more leisurely pace, stroll the Luray-Hawksbill Greenway, a two-mile, handicap accessible trail that the whole family can enjoy. To cool off, spend a day on the Shenandoah River kayaking, fishing, or canoeing. For a more thrilling time on land, book an ATV excursion with Appalachian Adventures, where you can ride the wooded trails. It’s also perfectly ok if your idea of being outside is sitting on your deck or in your cabin’s hot tub while taking in the scenery.

Visit the Caverns

As the largest caverns in the eastern United States, Luray Caverns are one of Page Valley’s main attractions, and stopping by while you’re in town is a must. Paved, lit walkways lead visitors through underground rooms, where stone columns, unique formations, and natural pools await. Beyond the caverns, the site also features several other attractions, including The Garden Maze, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town, which will delight children of all ages. For an extra fee, you can add on the Rope Adventure Park, an aerial course not for the faint of heart.

Support Local Shops

While Page Valley is a rural area, there are still plenty of places to visit for those who enjoy wandering through locally owned stores. Book lovers should prioritize perusing the stacks at Bank Street Books, which has two floors filled with preloved books—and you can’t miss their healthy collection of owl memorabilia. If you enjoy antiques, peek at the curated collection at Mama’s Treasures or go thrifting at Page One. The Art Space on 211 is the place to go for artisan goods, or you can patronize Hawksbill Trading Company, a multi-vendor shop with home decor and gifts in addition to handmade items.

Porch + Vine Credit: Courtesy Visit Page Valley, VA

Where To Eat and Drink

Fuel Your Day

When you simply need a great cup of coffee to go, get your fix at Broad Porch Coffee Co., where you can also sit down and eat breakfast or brunch if you have time. Gathering Grounds is perfect for a hearty breakfast, but don’t miss their selection of baked goods in the case. For an award-winning taste of Page Valley, head to Main Street Bakery. Whether you get a fresh loaf of bread to take back to your cabin, have a breakfast pastry, or pick your late-night dessert, arrive early for the best selection.

Take a Lunch Break

You may not expect to find stellar Asian food in a small mountain town, but one taste of the fresh cuisine at Asian Station will change your mind. Hawksbill Diner in Stanley is a favorite spot to mingle with locals and find Southern staples like country-fried steak, served with mashed potatoes smothered in gravy. In season, you can also eat at Cooter’s Country Kitchen, where visiting the museum dedicated to the Dukes of Hazzard will evoke nostalgia.​

Dine in a House

For an upscale dinner, dine at Porch + Vine, which focuses on locally-sourced farm-to-table cuisine in a historic home with Mid-Century Modern decor. One of the most popular places in town is Chop House Bistro, so be sure to make reservations to experience their cuisine accompanied by stellar service. However, if you’re just in the mood to use your cabin, order pizza from Dominico’s, grab sandwiches at West Main Market, or cook at home with fresh meats from Willow Grove Farm Market.

Explore by Sipping

Those who enjoy beer, wine, and cocktails will be pleasantly surprised by what the region has in store. Beer lovers can get a house-made brew at Hawksbill Brewing Co. in the heart of Luray or Coal Ridge Brewing in Stanley. To taste locally made distilled spirits, go to Blue Shepherd Spirits, where you can sample via a flight or order from their rotating menu of creative cocktails. The Vintage Barrel Tasting Room is a perfect place to take a group. From wine tastings to beer and cider, there’s something there for every taste.