Huntly VA Real Estate & Homes for Sale

Nestled in a clearing on a hillside, encircled by gardens, Hydrangea Hill offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and serenity. Unparalleled views and privacy are coupled with modern comfort, coziness and light near the border of Shenandoah National Park. Travel back in time along impossibly picturesque Riley Hollow Rd as it meanders past large farms, impressive rock outcroppings, and swaths of wild forest. You will arrive at the newly upgraded driveway, complete with steel water bars, and climb until you are greeted by an enchanting view over Riley Hollow. The verticality of the cottage presides over the level clearing and invites one to climb to a higher perch for an even better view. Starting with a fieldstone lower floor, the cottage is the perfect blend of old and new. Part of it was created from antique, hand-hewn logs reclaimed from an authentic log cabin, while the other part provides more modern spaces. Multiple decks and porches and a shady lawn offer options for outdoor enjoyment in any season. Thoughtfully sited, Hydrangea Hill presents the difficult-to-achieve combination of mountain views plus complete privacy in one charming package. A balance of history and modern comfort, coziness and light, the main floor is built to bring family and friends together. Renovated in 2023, the light-filled kitchen greets visitors with a bay window overlooking the mountains and a serene color palette that mirrors the natural surroundings. There are solid-surface counters, a double sink, and a new range hood. A clever dividing wall creates a pantry area with an abundance of storage space. Walk through to the living room and be transported to a completely different space, with a cozy fire and ancient log walls. Windows overlook the gardens and forest, while doors with screens on either side of the room allow in additional sunlight and breezes in the warmer months. The upstairs bedrooms provide two distinctive sleeping spaces whether one prefers the cozy embrace of log cabin living, or the sun streaming through the trees above the valley views. There is a full bath between these two bedrooms. The garden-level guest suite offers comfort and privacy, separated from the other living quarters, and has the added charm of a wood burning stove. French doors open out to the gardens. The suite includes a sitting room and a full bath. The laundry, with new washer and dryer, is also on this level. Step outside and the beauty of Rappahannock spreads out before you as trails meander up through your private forest. Escape into the forestâs embrace and discover rock outcroppings and secret views. Or wander down to your private stretch of Bearwallow Creek. Sit by the stream and let the sounds of the water rushing over rocks wash away all stresses. Each season brings new delights and discoveries. Much love has been put into this special property, some apparent and some behind-the-scenes. Recent upgrades have included a newly redone driveway, a kitchen renovation, new stone work, and a renovated and pest-proofed garden shed. Less visible, but equally important upgrades include a deep cleaned and sealed attic, an improved DSL internet connection, and HVAC upgrades. See the full list in the linked documents. Hydrangea Hill is offered fully furnished, the work has been done, and the property is ready for a new chapter to be written. This is a truly outstanding Rappahannock County gem. Located about an hour and a half from Washington, DC, and only 17 miles from I-66, this property is within an easy distance for stress-free getaways. With proximity to Flint Hill and only 23 miles from Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, there is much to explore. Wineries and breweries, great restaurants and cafes, antique stores, farms and orchards, and much more. Visit one of the many art galleries, or attend a play or a concert at one of the theaters. Rappahannock offers endless recreational possibilities. The Heart of the Piedmont is calling.