10 amazing Virginia rentals for your next getaway

While staying at a conventional hotel or resort for a getaway is nice, they can sometimes feel a little too cookie-cutter. If you’re looking to shake up your next getaway, consider staying at a weird, wild, or otherwise unique Airbnb. Check out this list of 10 amazing Virginia vacation rentals in 2024. 

The Tobacco Barn

Location: Spotsylvania

Rustic meets chic at The Tobacco Barn. While the rental features plenty of modern design elements, like a cozy fireplace and soapstone floors, its high-peaked ceilings and exposed-log crossbeams reveal its prior functionality as a place where tobacco leaves were stored for drying. 

An August 2023 reviewer wrote, “The Tobacco Barn was a wonderful find. We’re definitely gonna be staying here again on our next trip.” 

LUX Heated Tugboat

Location: Louisa 

This tugboat-turned-houseboat is unique in the fact that it floats on an 8-acre private lake but has all the conveniences you could ever want, including a fully stocked kitchen and Wi-Fi. The lake is surrounded by 142 wooded acres that offer more than 5 miles of trails for hiking and biking. At night, you can relax on the private beach by the firepit or on the deck overlooking the water. Fun fact: The boat was brought to Louisa from Connecticut. 

A September 2023 reviewer wrote, “Such a unique and fun stay. The property is gorgeous with so much to do.” 

Luxe Yurt

Location: Afton

While there are quite a few yurt vacation rental options scattered throughout the commonwealth, this one is the epitome of glamping. The luxury yurt has a hot tub and wood stove that’s perfect for cold fall and winter nights. Perched on top of a small hill, it offers panoramic views of the 70-acre farmstead it’s located on from its large deck.

An October 2023 reviewer wrote, “This is one of the best Airbnb experiences anywhere…wonderful place, perfect setting, great location, awesome host.” 

Hobbit House 

Location: Shenandoah

The Hobbit House is the perfect rental for those who like J.R.R. Tolkien’s books or the Peter Jackson film adaptations. The unique and whimsical dwelling offers in-house surround sound, a large tiled shower, a wood-burning fireplace, an outdoor grill, and hot tub. 

A September 2023 reviewer wrote, “The Hobbit House was one of a kind. Everything was immaculate and packed full of design. Clearly a work from passion.”

Train Caboose

Location: Lynchburg 

After having been bought off Facebook Marketplace, the Train Caboose was turned into a unique rental that overlooks the James River. It’s just a short walk from various nature trails as well as downtown Lynchburg, where shopping and dining options can be found. 

An October 2023 reviewer wrote, “The caboose was exactly what we expected and just such a fun place to get away for a day or two. We enjoyed the firepit, swing and comfortable beds.”

The Toasted Marshmallow

Location: Fancy Gap

The Toasted Marshmallow, a white dome house, is perhaps one of the most unique rentals along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Unsurprisingly, it has an outdoor fire pit that is perfect for making s’mores. Luckily, the ingredients are provided. Next to the house is a tranquil bubbling spring. 

A September 2023 reviewer wrote, “If you’re looking for peace and quiet and relaxation, perfect spot.” 

Dream Rock Silo

Location: Independence

The Dream Rock Silo, a 1950s dairy barn silo, was brought back to life by a husband-and-wife duo. Guests stay in the top two floors of the silo, which are circular. The numerous windows and private deck off the bedroom offer 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. The husband is a cabinet maker and has created a secret compartment. Guests are encouraged to look for it, where they will find a special gift to take home with them. 

A September 2023 reviewer wrote, “This is our fifth time visiting…As always, we had the BEST time! This is truly a home away from home.”

Barn on the Creeper

Location: Damascus 

The Barn on the Creeper is the perfect spot for Virginia Creeper Trail enthusiasts looking for a unique spot to stay along the trail. The renovated barn sits just 1,000 feet away from the trail. The multiple decks offer views of the nearby mountains. Despite being secluded, it’s only a few minutes from downtown Damascus, where dining and shopping options aplenty can be found. 

A September 2023 reviewer wrote, “We had a fantastic stay at the barn. My best friend and I had wanted to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail, and this place was perfect for making that happen.” 

Lighthouse

Location: White Stone

This lighthouse-style getaway offers views of three different bodies of water—Little Oyster Creek, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Rappahannock River—from its wraparound deck and observation lookout. The private dock is perfect for launching a kayak or personal watercraft from. 

A September reviewer wrote, “The wraparound deck was amazing for drinking our morning coffee and watching the water. Incredible views, especially from the very top of the lighthouse!” 

Pretty Byrd Cottage

Location: Hacksneck

Pretty Byrd Cottage is a Victorian cottage that’s located on a private island. Surrounded by a private 3-acre lake, it’s only accessible via a footbridge. With verandas and a balcony, the cottage offers plenty of views of the surrounding Chesapeake Bay. It even has a private beach. 

An October reviewer wrote, “The island cottage is idyllic. There are water views from every window in the cottage and the setting is peaceful and tranquil. Just perfect for a romantic getaway or a respite from the stress of work and life.”