Blue Ridge Bliss
The Clifton honors its historic Charlottesville roots while embracing modern luxury
story by Kari Smith | photos by Cameron Wilder
The busy hum of Interstate 64 gives way to a quiet, tree-lined highway leading into the hidden driveway of The Clifton, a historic retreat in Charlottesville. At the top of the hill, bookended by towering brick chimneys, the stately inn exudes a mix of Southern charm and modern hospitality with its impressive columns and front porch rocking chairs.
The Clifton was originally built in 1799 as a colonial home for Thomas Jefferson's daughter Martha Jefferson Randolph, and her husband, Thomas Mann Randolph. The Manor House is the centerpiece of a collection of buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, including the Garden Cottages, Livery Stables, and Collina Farmhouse, offering a total of 20 unique guest rooms.
No matter where visitors walk along the property’s hundred acres, stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains add to the sense of history and splendor. Spring is an especially alluring time to linger because the peonies are in fragrant bloom along manicured pathways. An avid gardener myself, I stroll the grounds with a resident barn cat to peruse the chef’s garden where raised beds are bursting with vegetables, herbs, and flowers whose colorful blooms are buzzing with pollinators.
Guests can play a competitive game of horseshoes, cornhole, or croquet; lounge in luxury beneath a cabana at the cascading infinity pool; or enjoy a soothing soak in the stone-walled hot tub. For a moment of solitude, the inn’s private, 20-acre Lake Arabella invites visitors to unwind on the dock by its tranquil shores, perhaps with a yoga mat or fishing pole.
I follow a brick path to a charming patio overlooking the shaded front lawn and step into the Carriage House, one of the Garden Cottages. Inside, quiet music drifts from the upstairs loft, and homemade pastries await in the elegant dining area. The suite’s wooden floors and exposed beams add character, while the lofted king bedroom, tucked beneath a peaked plank ceiling, brings a touch of whimsy. Downstairs, a brick fireplace anchors the modernly furnished living room. Sunlight pours into the luxurious bathroom, which features plush towels, bathrobes and premium toiletries by Malin+Goetz.
Careful consideration has been made to embrace the historical roots of the Clifton, but travelers will appreciate the modern amenities — Blink charging stations for electric vehicles, Samsung Smart TVs for streaming your favorite show before bed, and Bluetooth-enabled Tivoli radios.
The Clifton and its 1799 Restaurant earned a spot in the 2024 Michelin Green Guide USA East, piquing my curiosity to experience its impressive menu and craft cocktails. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Matthew Bousquet draws inspiration from the seasons, sourcing some ingredients from local farms and the garden out front. I begin with fresh Prince Edward Island mussels in a savory broth, paired with crisp housemade bread by Pastry Chef Cameron Blot, followed by my server’s suggestion — a rich pancetta-wrapped trout with potato confit. Dining solo, I settle at a cozy table overlooking the sophisticated Copper Bar, sipping the 1799 Signature Cocktail — cucumber vodka, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and pineapple juice — while enjoying a bit of people-watching.
At the warm heart of The Clifton experience is concierge Ann Shannon, who has been with the property since 2006. “My absolute favorite part is our guests; they’re the most interesting people,” she shares. “They come from all over the world, but I almost always find I have something in common with them.” She also loves the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of the estate. “It’s not pretentious or formal; you can be comfortable,” she says. “The staff really makes an effort to make people feel like they’re at home here.” With her extensive local knowledge and passion for creating memorable stays, Shannon creates itineraries, from wedding plans to couple or solo trips, that showcase the best of Charlottesville. Her curated concierge services and themed blog posts on the property’s website offer local insights from a true insider.
The Clifton's prime location makes it the perfect base for exploring Charlottesville’s many attractions. I tour Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and take in the University of Virginia’s grandiose architecture, including the iconic Rotunda designed by Jefferson, the university’s founder.
The Historic Downtown Mall offers shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues within walking distance. Visitors enjoy tasting the local flavor at Carter Mountain Orchard, where the Country Store sells fresh cider donuts and all-natural apple and peach cider, best paired with sweeping panoramic views of the valley below.
More than once during my journey, I perk up at Grit Coffee, known for high quality, locally sourced coffee and a community vibe at multiple locations. Dairy Market, a vibrant food hall anchored by Starr Hill Brewery, offers entertainment and a variety of family-friendly food choices with communal dining spaces. Across the street at Cou Cou Rachou, I meet the incredibly talented and humble Rachel De Jong, French-trained owner of the quaint shop, which serves coffee along with sweet and savory pastries crafted from organic, locally sourced ingredients.
For wine enthusiasts, Charlottesville's rise to wine fame is no surprise, thanks to the region’s impressive array of varietals. Named Wine Enthusiast 2023 Wine Region of the Year, this area boasts more than 40 wineries producing exceptional wines. There are no shortage of options along the Monticello Wine Trail, such as Jefferson Vineyards, built on land once owned by Thomas Jefferson, and now offering a variety of excellent reds and whites. At another stop on the trail, I sample a flight with owner Athena Eastwood of Eastwood Farm and Winery, which hosts entertainment and live music indoors and outside. The winery is family-friendly with options for young guests including a juice flight and a kids’ cheese board, complete with fruit snacks, trail mix, and string cheese.
As a craft beer drinker, I appreciate the thoughtfully brewed small batch beer on tap at Selvedge Brewing and chat with Head Brewer Josh Skinner about his commitment to researching and brewing German beers. Their full menu features elevated pub food made with locally sourced ingredients.
At the end of the day, I return to The Clifton, where nightly turndown service includes buttery sugar cookies, not to be confused with the homemade chocolate chip cookies offered at checkout. It’s not just the sweet treats that draw me back, though — it's the peaceful serenity and beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Even as I drive away, turning out of that hidden driveway, I already find myself longing to return.