Nestled in a clearing on a hillside, encircled by gardens, Hydrangea Hill offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and serenity. Unparalleled views and privacy on 11+ acres are coupled with modern comfort, coziness and light with a view of Shenandoah National Park.
Travel back in time along impossibly picturesque Riley Hollow Road as it meanders past large farms, impressive rock outcroppings, and swaths of wild forest. The road ends just past the property, so it is lightly traveled with Shenandoah National Park just beyond the last property. You will arrive at the newly upgraded driveway, complete with steel water bars, and climb until you are greeted by an enchanting view out over Riley Hollow. The verticality of the cottage presides over the level clearing and invites one to climb to a higher perch for an even better view. Starting with a fieldstone lower floor, the cottage is the perfect blend of old and new. Part of it was created from antique, hand-hewn logs reclaimed from an 1840s log cabin, while the other part provides more modern spaces. Multiple decks and porches and a shaded lawn offer options for outdoor enjoyment and entertainment in any season. Thoughtfully sited, Hydrangea Hill presents the difficult-to-achieve combination of mountain views plus complete privacy in one charming package.
A balance of history and modern comfort, coziness and light, the main floor is built to bring family and friends together as much as it lends itself to lazy afternoons reading in the window light. Renovated in 2023, the light-filled country kitchen greets visitors with a bay window with expansive valley views, a brick accent wall, and a serene color palette that reflects the natural surroundings. There are solid-surface counters, a double sink, and a new range hood. A clever dividing wall creates a pantry area with an unexpected abundance of storage space. Built in shelving and new storage baskets keep extra items tidy.
Walk through to the living room and be transported to a completely different space, with a cozy fire and ancient log walls. Windows overlook the gardens and forest, while doors with screens on either side of the room allow in additional sunlight and breezes in the warmer months. The door to the front leads to the deck overlooking the front lawn and mountains beyond. The door to the back opens to the tiered porches and the gardens.
The upstairs bedrooms provide two distinctive sleeping spaces whether one prefers the cozy embrace of log cabin living, or the sun streaming through the trees above the valley views. There is a full bath between these two bedrooms.
The garden-level guest suite offers comfort and privacy, separated from the other living quarters, and has the added charm of a wood burning stove for extra coziness. French doors open out to the gardens. The suite includes a sitting room and a full bath. The laundry, with new washer and dryer, is on this level as well.
Step outside and the beauty of Rappahannock County spreads out before you as trails meander up through your private forest. Escape into the forest’s embrace and discover rock outcroppings and secret views. Or wander down into the valley and visit your private stretch of Bearwallow Creek. Sit by the stream and let the sounds of the water rushing over rocks wash away all stresses. Each season brings new delights and discoveries to Hydrangea Hill.
Much love has been put into this special property, some apparent and some behind-the-scenes. Recent upgrades have included a newly redone driveway, a kitchen renovation, new stone work, and a renovated and pest-proofed garden shed. Less visible, but equally important upgrades include a deep cleaned and sealed attic, an improved DSL internet connection, and a new HVAC upgrade. See the full list in the linked documents.
Hydrangea Hill is offered fully furnished, the work has been done, and the property is ready for a new chapter to be written. This is a truly outstanding Rappahannock County gem. Located about 80 minutes from Washington, DC, and only 17 miles from I-66, this property is within easy driving distance for stress-free weekend getaways. With proximity to the Village of Flint Hill’s restaurants along with the much renowned Inn at Little Washington and only 23 miles from Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, there is much to explore both nearby and further afield. There are wineries and breweries, great restaurants and cafes, antique stores, farms and orchards, and much more. Looking for cultural activities? Visit one of the many art galleries, attend a play or a concert at one of the theaters, or visit the Rappahannock Historical Society’s museum. Rappahannock and surrounding counties offer endless recreational possibilities. The Heart of the Piedmont is calling.
