There is something magical about a home on the edge of a lake. And you don’t have to be a master naturalist to be mesmerized by the birds, mammals, reptiles and plant life of the lake. Many species of birds from majestic eagles, great blue herons and wood ducks to the tiny barn swallows zipping around feasting on insects are drawn to the lake. Deer, raccoons, foxes, possums, beaver and the occasional bear hunt the shore in the evening and early morning. Frogs, snakes, lizards and salamanders haunt the water’s edge. And there is nothing as delightful as listening to the symphony of frogs as the sun sets over the Blue Ridge, starting with the little peepers and growing to a bass crescendo of big lunking bull frogs.
Lakeside is sited on the shore of a private lake in the edge of the forest. The grounds around the house are planted with thousands of daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and flowering bulbs. There is a sea of rhododendrons, azaleas and flowering shrubs creating a lovely understory in the woods. In fairness, the gardens need some restoration, but the extent and beauty of the plantings is impressive.
The house is a big barn-like structure with large rooms wide windows and tall ceilings. There is a long, wide deck across the rear of the home that overlooks the lake. The previous owner was a renowned collector of American Folk Art so there are too many shelves, display areas and track lights. Similar to the gardens, the interior needs some renovation but there is a lot to work with.
The main floor includes a large entry hall, kitchen/living/dining area, another very large living room, three fireplaces and the primary suite that has an intriguing stone lined waterfall-like shower.
The upper level has a large office/studio space. On one side there is a wide window facing the forest and on the other side is another window that overlooks the lake.
The lower level includes two bedrooms, a full bath and a big family room. The two car garage is accessed from this level.
Despite its perfect privacy, Lakeside is around 80 miles from Washington, DC, and about 55 miles from Charlottesville and even closer to both airports. Artists Retreat allows you to get away from it all without being too far off the beaten path. From the home, Sperryville is only 6 miles away and Culpeper, with its commuter train to Washington, is 14 miles away. If you want to explore other areas the Thornton Gap entrance to the Shenandoah National Park is only 14 miles away and the Old Rag trailhead is 21 miles away. In addition to the endless buffet of trails, vistas and waterfalls, Rappahannock and surrounding counties offer endless recreational opportunities. Visit one of our local breweries, distillery or cidery. Enjoy a meal at one of our local restaurants that range from the casual Black Twig to a gourmet meal courtesy of 3 Blacksmiths or the world famous Inn at Little Washington. Don’t forget to visit our local galleries, antique stores, orchards and take in a play at the Castleton Festival or the Gay Street Theater.
