Primland

Long winding roads, farmland, and a mountain studded horizon…the views upon arrival to the entrance of Primland. Located in a small town, Meadows of Dan, Virginia, we arrived at the South Entrance gate. We received a warm welcome and directions to the Main Lodge for check-in. Our directions were to follow the switchbacks up the mountain for about 5 miles, reach a stop sign, turn and continue for another couple miles.  As we weaved through the trees, peered out through overlooks, and stopped for the occasional deer and bear crossing (Yes! We saw bears!) we realized and laughed that it just took us almost 20 minutes since we first got through the gate. Primland resort sits amongst 12,000 acres in the mountains. A resort where rugged nature meets luxury, I knew I was in for a treat.

Lavender lemonade and a glass of wine were presented at check-in, along with a short tour showing us the dining areas, golf shop, and spa. We were escorted up to our room and entered a beautiful suite, that just so happens to be the only suite in the lodge that has a balcony overlooking the golf course nestled into the mountains. If the Main Lodge doesn’t give you the serenity and privacy that you are looking for, they offer stunning cliffside treehouses or stand-alone cabins, all which give you access to all the amenities of the Main Lodge, including room service that can be driven out to you!

The list of activities offered can keep even the most active outdoorsman busy! Hunting and archery, horseback riding, fly fishing (partnered with Orvis), RTV riding, golfing and disc golf, just to name a few.  And after a day of working your muscles, you can indulge in one of many spa treatments that are offered.

For days prior to our arrival, I couldn’t stop thinking about mountain views, a comfy robe, slippers and a glass of wine. So once we got settled in to our room, showered up from our drive, we found ourselves doing just that, sitting on our balcony, enjoying room service, and watching the sunset.  The next morning, we explored the expansive resort and figured out our agenda for the day. Chateau Morrisette Winery is in the nearby town of Floyd. We ventured over for a tour and wine tasting then stopped in Nancy’s Candy Shop for some homemade fudge on our way back to the resort. That evening we enjoyed a FABULOUS dinner at Leatherflower, their fine dining restaurant that offers seasonal local cuisine. Unfortunately, we were so full that neither one of us could imagine having one of their delicious desserts. By the time we finished dinner, it was time to head to our stargazing activity. Yes, that’s correct! They offer stargazing in their very own observatory.  You climb the stairs above the 3rd story of the lodge and enter in to what appears to be a large grain silo. Once inside and your eyes adjust, you see multiple computer screens and 2 large Celestron telescopes. We are greeted by our celestial guide and given an introduction to what we hope to see that night. A large “window” opened up to reveal the night sky and the domed ceiling revolved around to align with telescope in any direction. On a clear night, you can view the Milkyway, the rings of Saturn, and so many other magical things.

The next morning, after a filling breakfast, we made our way to the Outdoor Activity Center. We were headed out on a RTV excursion thru the mountains. Our guide was great, the ride was fun, and again, we saw a bear! We rode up and down hills, rugged terrain, passed by lakes, and through streams. It was a fun filled two hour tour filled with laughs and smiles. We must have worked up quite an appetite because we were starving by the time we finished our tour. Since we hadn’t visited the casual dining, 19th Pub yet, we opted there for lunch. And boy, it did not disappoint. The “pig candy” is a MUST, an appetizer of sweet and spicy candied bacon. After stuffing ourselves at lunch, we decided to try our luck at the disc golf course.  The first few holes are extremely intimidating.  Slightly off course and you would lose a disc deep into the woods never to be found again! But a few holes in, and we wound up having a great time.  Most of the course is shaded from the hot sun and you are tucked in the trees making it very enjoyable.  We even found our way down to the lake after where we enjoyed a great swim to cool off. There was even a fishing pole left by the water’s edge that we were able to use and catch a fish!  That evening for dinner, we went to their Stable Saloon. A rustic restaurant set atop an old stable where family style barbeque is served while listening to a live bluegrass band. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Primland Resort is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, eat amazing food, and feel pampered. I know I will be returning, I just hope it is sooner rather than later!

To book a trip to Primland call Ashley at 609-760-8477 or email her at [email protected]