Fall is a perfect time to enjoy cooler temperatures and gorgeous scenery—changing leaves, bay and ocean breezes, mountain views and the fall wine harvest—while socially distancing. You can reach these Virginia and Maryland hotels and resorts by car in under five hours. Each one is stepping up safety precautions to keep guests safe in Covid times.
Goodstone InnÂ
Driving time from Arlington: 1 hour
There’s ample room to spread out on this 265-acre estate in Middelburg. The secluded inn is only accepting one reservation at each of its half dozen cottages. All food—including daily breakfast—is available to go, and you’ll find plenty of places to dine al fresco, with seating scattered throughout Goodstone’s many gardens and near its heated pool. Pair Conservatory and Bistro executive chef Jan Van Haute’s new tasting menu with the restaurant’s extensive list of Loudoun County wines, or hit up one of the dozen wineries nearby to buy your own bottle. // 36205 Snake Hill Road, Middleburg, Virginia
Kingsmill Resort
Driving time from Arlington:Â Â 2.5 hrs
Set on 3,000 acres along the James River, this Williamsburg resort is a draw for active travelers who enjoy the outdoors. Kingsmill offers a host of activities that lend themselves to easy distancing, including boating, kayaking, tennis, golf (three courses), rock climbing and hiking, plus indoor and outdoor pools. Many of Kingsmill’s accommodations are condo-style units with separate entrances, and the resort recently opened some spaces for pets. The fitness center, spa (offering massage, hair and nail services) and most restaurants are open. // 1010 Kingsmill Road, Williamsburg, Virginia
Primland
Driving time from Arlington: 5 hours
Enjoy the scenic drive to this luxury resort tucked deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia. Primland is set on 12,000 sprawling acres. In addition to UV scans for your bags and bountiful sanitizing stations, it’s providing masks, gloves and personal cleaning supplies to all guests upon arrival. (Call it the 2020 amenity kit!) The hot tubs are still closed, but the spa is open for couples’ massages and other services. Get outside for a nature hike, or enjoy yoga, pilates or Chi Kung instruction on one of Primland’s scenic meditation decks.  Foodie travelers should ask about the Savor stays in November, which include breakfast, tea service, dinner and special receptions. //2000 Busted Rock Road, Meadows of Dan, Virginia