The Inn at Kelly's Ford: A Gorgeous, Affordable B&B in Northern Virginia's Hunt Country

I've lived near the Inn at Kelly's Ford for most of my life but have only recently visited there, and I wish I'd done it sooner. With hotel prices in the area around the $150 per night range, you can stay in this beautiful, secluded and luxurious inn for only $25 to $50 more.

The inn is located in Remington, Virginia on a Civil War battlefield by the Rappahannock River. The main house was built in 1779 and was refurbished a few years ago with modern amenities that don't detract from the historical ambience of the place. For $175 a night, you can stay in one of two luxurious bedrooms and both have a fireplace, a big antique tub in a marble bathroom, a balcony overlooking the battlefield, river and Blue Ridge mountains, and all sorts of modern touches, including wireless internet.

For a little more, you can stay in one of the suites in the cottages on the property. The cottages offer an additional six large suites, each with a private Jacuzzi, fireplace, wet bar and balcony with the same sweeping view as the other buildings. The Silo is two levels, a bedroom on top and a living area on the bottom with a stone patio, fireplace and fountain. You can even stay in the Ranch House or the General's Quarters, each with three bedrooms, two baths, full kitchen, decks and even a private horse paddock. Both houses can accommodate up to 6 people, and both go for only $250 a night!

At the intimate dining room at the inn, you can have an elegant dinner prepared by a French chef, and you won't be disappointed. My friend and his mother ate there last weekend and had what they call "the best steaks we've ever had" -- this is coming from two people who come from a ranch in Kansas and grew up on prime Angus. If you'd rather dine casually, Pelham's Pub is located downstairs and offers great pub fare in a cozy, dark wood setting with live acoustic entertainment on the weekends. In the summer, you can either eat on the deck in the main dining room or the patio at the pub, both overlooking the pastures and mountains. In the winter, both restaurants have beautiful stone fireplaces where you can relax with a glass of wine or a beer.

The Inn at Kelly's Ford also offers tons of activities. There's a heated pool and Jacuzzi at the main house, or you can walk down to the river to take a swim or go fishing. Hiking trails abound, as do riding trails and an indoor arena. You can board your own horse in the huge paddocks or use one of theirs. They offer riding lessons and trail rides for beginners and experts alike, and there's even a clubhouse upstairs at the Equestrian Center.

Whether spending one night, a week, or hosting a corporate event or wedding reception, the Inn at Kelly's Ford offers something for everyone in a beautiful country setting, and you can't beat the price.