Lexington is a lively town located in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. Cutting through the downtown is Main Street and in the heart of it is The Georges, a boutique hotel and historic Inn. The property is a mini town in itself with rooms divided across multiple buildings which also include two dining properties (Tap’s and Haywoods) and a stunning event space. With all its legacy, multiple awards and recognitions, and top-notch dining the Georges is a Lexington staple, and perhaps even a destination in itself.
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The trip was hosted by Virginia Tourism Corporation, which did not review or approve the story.
A bit of situational history
The hotel is an award-winning member of Historic Hotels of America. Two of its current buildings were built over 200 years ago: The Washington and Marshall buildings. The owner, Ann Parker Gottwald, began this venture with a single building and over time acquired other neighbouring properties. Today The Georges spreads across four buildings but in due time it will be five; Anne purchased the nearby Sheridan Livery Building last year (Tonic Restaurant and Inn) which will house additional guest rooms and event space.
Inside the Suite
There is a persistent look and feel across all properties, modern and elegant with bright touches and playful accents but Each room is unique. According to the hotel staff, Ann Parker picks out all decor herself and personally finishes each suite, they charmingly call it her “playtime”.
Some units have private balconies and spacious lounge areas, all rooms have soaker tubs and airy bathrooms with heated floors and towel racks. The tall windows open to a city view, letting light shine through the shutters, but blackout curtains are always an option. A stay at the Georges is comfortable and restful. The spa-like bathroom is certainly a big bonus for those who have time to relax.
There is no fridge or a coffee maker in the room but the shared area in each building has daily coffee/tea service with homemade cookies. The TV in each room is equipped with Alexa, which I discovered accidentally and took full advantage of setting my own soundtrack.
The hotel team leaves plenty of water bottles around the suite, one can be seen on each side of the bed here.
Dining & Entertainment
Both Georges’ dining properties rate high on Lexington’s restaurant list and appeared at the top of my search for local cocktail bars. Haywood’s Piano Bar & Grill serves up bistro-style cuisine carefully curated by Chef Xavier Deshayes, a French chef with a focus on sustainable dining. The menu at Haywoods changes seasonally, showcasing local ingredients and hand-cut Seven Hills steaks. Heading into the summer the current menu includes buttery risottos, local cheeses, tender steaks, crisp fresh greens, and even lobster.
Located across the street from Haywood’s next to the check-in desk Taps serves upscale pub fare, craft beers, and cocktails. The restaurant stretches across two rooms and an upstairs terrace. The ground floor windows open to the street creating a casual and somewhat romantic setting. The upstairs terrace is a sunny yet intimate space accented with greenery and light-coloured umbrellas. This menu is all about hearty meals like burgers, fish and chips, and fried chicken and waffles.
Many of the Georges’ spaces can be used for private events but the most eye-catching is the Patton Room. Its dark blue exterior is immediately noticeable from Main Street, factory-style windows offering a peak into the open loft space. The room is a blank canvas with modular elements, harvest tables, lounge sitting, and outdoor access. The space is thoughtfully decorated with gold and natural elements driving attention to the cluster of acorn chandeliers.
The Georges
Rooms starting at $289 for a classic Queen; prices change seasonally
11 N Main St, Lexington, VA 24450, United States
Book directly on thegeorges.com or your favourite booking website: Expedia* | TripAdvisor *| Hotels.com*
In the gear bag: In the gear bag: Fujifilm X-T100 with a Fuji XF50mmF2 R WR and XF 23mm f/2 R WR lenses. To see the trip on Instagram look up #xovirginia23 and @katerryna.
