If you're looking for a beautiful cabin getaway in the very underrated Shenandoah National Park, boy do I have a recommendation for you... The Retreat at Crabtree Falls.
Tucked away in the quiet hillsides of Virginia are some of the coziest cabins I’ve ever stayed in—woodstove heat, front porch views, and the kind of easygoing serenity that makes you forget what day it is. Some are nestled right along the Tye River, others perched in the woods with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and all of them feel like a step back into simpler times. My family and I planned a trip here for our annual mountain weekend, so we stayed in a bigger loft-style accommodation, but there are plenty of different options. This made a great basecamp for our bigger group. However, some of the smaller, quainter cabins/glamping tents would make for the perfect romantic weekend.
Cozy cabin? Check. Trails out the back door? Check. Awesome wineries and breweries within easy driving distance? Also, check.
You're located right near Crabtree Falls, the tallest series of cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The hike up Crabtree is short but steep, and it rewards you with nonstop views of rushing water the whole way. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, it connects to the Appalachian Trail near the top, and from there you’ve got access to hikes like Spy Rock and The Priest—both iconic in their own ways. Spy Rock, especially, is a must if you want panoramic sunset views without a huge time commitment.
You can easily hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for a slow cruise through one of the prettiest stretches of road in the country. We made stops at Devils Backbone Basecamp Brewpub for lunch, then swung by Veritas Vineyards to sip wine and watch the light fade over the mountains. Not a bad way to end a day spent on your feet. My favorite brewery in the area (and truly, one of my favorite breweries in the country) is about a 30-minute drive from the cabins, and it is a MUST-visit. The entire Blue Ridge region holds a special place in my heart.
Trust me—Shenandoah doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves. This quiet, little slice of Virginia is pure gold in every season. And The Retreat at Crabtree Falls cabins are just the cherry on top!