Omni Homestead Resort (Summer)
For those of you who have been following my family’s adventures for some time, you know we are big fans of the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia.
For the last two to three years we have been visiting the Omni Homestead throughout the colder, winter seasons. Who could blame us? It’s such a picturesque view to take in! However, each time we visited we would wonder what the summers at the Omni Homestead would be like and what type of experiences we could join in.
We decided this summer would be the perfect time to check it out before the baby arrives in the fall.
It did not disappoint! When I tell you the Omni is cradled by green, lush, surrounding mountains, it is the most decadent scenic view. I would visit, just to take in that landscape every morning!
Plus, the rooms teleport me to another place in time. They’re GORGEOUS! It’s definitely my kind of aesthetic. I really appreciate the history of the Homestead in the details of the architecture. Take a look at our combined rooms. We absolutely loved the sun room in the mornings!
During this visit, much like our previous ones, we booked a few activities beforehand. We like to plan at least an activity a day, that way we have a chance to experience a good mix of things the resort has to offer.
Our first adventure or treat, depending how you look at it, was a carriage ride day for the family, as well as a prenatal massage for myself. The carriage ride was so beautiful and we even got to see some fun wildlife as we rode through the woods, like bear cubs, deer, and the cutest chipmunks you’ve ever seen. We don’t see many chipmunks where we live ok, so they’re wildlife to us, haha.
These carriages are stunning as well as vintage. They have been delicately restored throughout the years but you can very much still appreciate the craftsmanship in the details. If you have a large family like ours, you will need to book two separate carriage rides. You have 30 minutes to an 1 hour options!
When we were done with our carriage ride, the fam headed back to rest before checking out the pool area and I checked into my prenatal massage.
Each time I’ve gone to the Omni Homestead, I’ve made it a point to include a massage for a day because they’re phenomenal. Nothing beats their spa area, mineral pools, and vast options of spa services. Trust me, it’s absolutely worth it, treat yourself to one. It’s quite the luxurious experience!
I joined my family at the pool shortly after my massage and it was the first time we were able to go in it. Like I mentioned before, we have only ever visited the Omni Homestead during the winter months. It was so exciting to be able to jump in the pool and hang in the cabana for the rest of the day. They really know how to give you the royal treatment there!
The slides were a hit with the kids! They were so thrilled over them that we stayed on this side of the lazy river the whole time. Not pictured, is a whole other side of this lazy River. A standard large pool with seating all around. In case you were wondering, the entire pool and lounging area is enormous. Lots of fun for everyone!
During the evenings we walked around the resort, usually before dinner and played a game of corn hole (or 5, ha), croquet, and even enjoyed an evening of making s’mores.
Lots to do in just one day right? Never a dull moment with this crew and I wouldn’t change it for the world!
Our following day was the family favorite. Definitely the highlight of our visit! We went fly fishing. While we’ve fished before, we’ve never done it quite like this. It was the first time we had attempted fly fishing. I was asked by several people if we had to bring any equipment or certain type of clothing and the answer to that is no. The resort provided us with everything we needed. Waders, boots, poles, etc. It was also a 4 hour guided experience. We had an incredible fly fishing guide (Nan) who was there to teach us the basics and what to do in different types of situations. We had a brief lesson on how to cast our lines out in the water and different techniques we could apply should we catch a trout. By the way, this is only catch and release, so no trout was hurt in the process haha.
Our first spot to try and catch some fish was down by a river that was fully stocked with rainbow trout. Guess what?? I was the first to catch one! It was a tiny one, but hey, it counts.
Our second spot was off of one of the Omni Homestead’s golf courses. It was BEAUTIFUL! Don’t take my word for it- take a look at these photos. We were blessed with such a warm & sunny day. The trout were popping here! We all caught one and they were the prettiest little rainbow trouts I have ever seen. They were literally sparkling.
It was an experience our family will always treasure. Add Fly Fishing to the list of activities to check out next time you’re at the Omni Homestead Resort. It is such a fun time!
After a full morning of fishing, we freshened up and enjoyed the daily tea time at the resort. Followed by a family game of golf. The Omni Homestead is known for their lush golf courses so we wanted to see for ourselves what the fuss was all about. Again, it did not disappoint! Even though our golf skill level is non existent with exception of my husband and maybe the boys, ha, we had such a great time practicing our swing and driving through this beautiful course. Golf clubs and golf balls were provided, so for those wondering, there are rental options. By the way, the golf carts are elite! The cooler is stocked with cold waters and the touch screen gps map of the course was incredibly helpful and useful throughout the day to literally keep us on track. It was a 10/10 family activity and I would highly recommend you give it try.
For our final day and last activity, we visited the warm spring pools. Such a cool location! The original octagonal stone basin that held the water for bathing was built in 1761, establishing it as the first spa structure in America. SO neat! The Omni Homestead is rich with history and so interesting to learn about during your stay.
I was asked about the depth of the springs and it’s close to 6 ft, but there are stones at the bottom that make it feel more like 5 feet. Plus, there are pool noodle’s available as well. It was such a relaxing way to end our trip and make the drive home. I hear it’s even more beautiful in the winter when it snows and you can see the snow cascading through the top opening.
Take this as your sign to visit the Omni Homestead Resort this year! It’s a magical place with so much to see and experience with loved ones. So thankful we made this trip before the baby’s arrival.
Happy summer!
XOXO, terri
XOXO, terri 