We came to Shenandoah Valley for a winter experience and took advantage of some of the great winter deals (all rate 25% off plus third night was 40% because we booked before Thanksgiving) offered by Brookside. Unfortunately, because of our choice of year, we ran into a few problems, all of which were addressed promptly and satisfactorily by the owners of Brookside. And, because of that, we are in position to review several of the cabins!
We booked Cabin 9 and battled through crazy DC drivers who freak out over a literal two inches of snow (aside: seriously DC-area, get it together!) Diane in the gift stop called us that morning to warn us of the impending snow and to let us know that if we ended up arriving late, they would leave the key for us under the doormat. Amazing foresight and we really appreciated her call.
When we walked into our cabin, the bathroom sink was overflowing and not draining. Turns out the cold winds had frozen the drainage pipes and Cabin 9, being at the end, got the brunt of it. Cece and Bob, the owners, came down immediately and gave us our choice of cabins. We chose number 2, which is a cozy space with a hot tub, angled bed and intimate fireplace area. The second morning, when we were moved back into 9, the water went out over the entire resort just after our morning shower, but by the time we returned to the cabin in the evening, it was fixed.
Overall, I liked Cabin 9 best, with its open layout, its great view from the Jacuzzi tub and its numerous skylights. Cabin 2 was cozy and romantic and I liked the layout of the sofa area around the fireplace and the hot tub was pleasant. Both are ideal for a couple, though Cabin 9 has a pull-out sofa and is large enough to not feel too crowded with kids.
We also had a peek into Cabins 7 & 8. Number 8 has a full kitchen and two bedrooms and would be great for a family or even the main house for a family reunion. Cece said it is popular for Thanksgiving gatherings. Cabin 7 is a jacuzzi cabin that was intended to be a two-bedroom but instead has a "tub room." If you like privacy for your Jacuzzi it makes sense, however we did not like that each room was separate.
The greatest part about the winter? Beautiful snow-covered trees and a partially frozen brook that still babbles underneath it AND the amazing Christmas decorations in each cabin. The usual decor is a bit old-fashioned and flowery, but the Christmas decorations are really fabulous and fun.
The restaurant was closed from Thanksgiving until the second week of January. Also, the cabins are really close to 211, which could get noisy in the summer, maybe? But we did not hear much traffic from our cabin, which was next to the roadway. Plus, you can't get any closer to the Thornton Gap entrance to Shenandoah National Park.
We hope to return this spring! read more