I went to the "spa" on a couple's retreat that I helped organize. Altogether, there were 8 of us. Unfortunately, there's a bit of confusion as to which part is the state park spa because there's a whole other spa company located very close to this one's entrance. Once we got everyone together in the same space, they accommodated our group very quickly. The welcoming area splits off into two separate tiled areas - one for ladies, the other for gentlemen - that have all been recently renovated. The facility is clean and the staff is very nice and professional. There was a concern that we would have to split up our group since we were getting 15-minute baths and massages and there weren't enough masseuses to go around. However, once they found out that two of our group were getting married soon, they let them have a couple's experience. The visit left our group with a funny story that we're not likely to ever forget. While in the changing area, the lady who guided us around gave us our directions and, separately, all three of us ladies understood that we were to strip out of our bathing suits because they are not allowed for the massage (they are for the baths!), Needless to say, the bath could have been a bit less uncomfortable without the misunderstanding, but we all had a good, if not intensely awkward, time. The guys were allowed to keep their shorts to our dismay! Now onto the massages... Most of us had a good experience, but the masseuses are far from licensed thanks to being grandfathered in after working there forever. They're very nice, but the massage is little more than a rub down with oil. For the price and for the experience, it's the most bang for your buck and it's a great way to...
Read moreMy ex-wife and I took the trip in the fall around October. We stayed at the State Parks hotel that is on the golf course. The place was nice just a little outdated. The restaurant was nice good food. The waitress we had every evening except for the last night. She was Amazing! We went to the Roman bath house. Soaked in the warm waters then both got a deep tissue massage. We walked around town. Taking pictures of everything including the castle and tower that is across the road from it. Went to the top of the street the castle is on to see a spectacular view of the three States, WV., MD., PA. We also took the drive up to the platform at the hotel to get an even better view. The place is like stepping back in time. We loved it so much that we talked to a realtor. She took us to a house that I think is now being used for cats. The color of the house reminded me of a cream-sickle color. She only showed us the first floor. She stood at the front door while we walked in every room. The attic was big enough for two large rooms and could be finished off into a study, or two bedrooms. I thought that it was strange. Until my wife was a floor above me as I walked through I kept seeing little flashes of light. I asked the realtor if the house was haunted?? She shook her head yes and smiled as she took another step back. She had told us at the beginning that the owner tried renting it. But no one stayed for very long. Then the owner tried renting it out as a commercial property only to have the same results. No one stayed for very long. It did have a feeling...
Read moreI dislike see I-95 around the Washington DC Corrider. From Pittsburgh to Tidewater (Virginia Beach, VA), I take I-79, South, turning off onto Route 522, South.
522, South brings you into Berkely Springs and Don't Blame Me if you stop and spend your vacation here!
Small town centering on Route 522 (the Main Drag) that's Filled with the Happiest Citizens you'll ever meet. I'm not going to ruin your excitement, so I'm recommending that you Google "Berkely Springs!"
There is a LOT to do in Berkely Springs!
Continuing on Route 522, find Winchester, VA! Larger town/city with - Oh... not me! No! You Google!
The entire Piedmont / Shenandoah area of northwestern Virginia belongs on your "Pack your bags - We've got to get there!," plans!
Once past the Rest Area out of Breezewood, PA, running south on 522, South, get you phone Video Ready because you Are Not going to believe the view! Hopefully, my yesterday's video also attaches here. Both did! Now, you have to going southbound to see this view because the northbound road is lower and the view is blocked by roadside trees. Unfortunately, there is no pull off (and please don't stop on the shoulder and get out. This is a steep, curving downhill, with traffic going along at 70+ mph, and I DO NOT Want You to get hurt! Please promise me you won't stop.) I believe this is the most beautiful 365 day drive you'll ever enjoy. And... what you are enjoying just happens to be mid-1600's farming families' lands! I didn't know that until I researched my...
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