I wish I could give more than five stars. I have close friends that enjoy getting together. We wanted a location that was near an airport, had four bedrooms and was affordable. The Gala Farmhouse is owned by Robin and Richard. Ruby (their treasured dog) is really in charge and runs the place. If a blade of grass on the working farm threatens you, she will bark at it. If a bird flies overhead, she will chase after it.
Part of the house was built in the 1800s. It was a working milk farm. The family owns most of the land that you see surrounding the farm, including the campground (along the James River) that is walking distance from the house. The house has been renovated and expanded. The mountains and trees and beautiful sky make a great backdrop for photos and fun.
Three of the four bedrooms have a queen or double bed. I slept in the room with twin beds (they are more suitable for kids). The dryer is in a closet by the front door. Check in time is 4pm. Check out time is 11am. There is a minimum two night stay policy. The house was rented for eight days.
The kitchen is fully stocked with a microwave, dishes, pots & pans and most kitchen gadgets that you would want. The refrigerator has an ice machine. There isn't a dishwasher. We spent a lot of time eating meals and playing games in the kitchen. There are little items hidden all over the house that are a fun scavenger hunt for kids. There is also a supply of toys & games. The owners live nearby, which is handy if you need them.
Two bedrooms are on the lower floor. The best closet is on the lower floor. Two bedrooms are on the upper floor. The showers are great (no tub). The living room has five seats that recline. We spent evenings visiting and playing games there. There is a giant screened in porch at the side of the house. You can play games or have a meal at the table. There is also a swing and hammock. It gets breezy in the screened in area at night. The other screened in porch is fun for enjoying the view. You can bring a camp chair onto the porch.
If you don't want to drive 30 miles to Walmart or 8 miles to Family Dollar, you can walk around the corner to Eagle Rock Grab and Go Country Store (aka Exxon Gas Station). You can buy a lotto ticket, a pizza and essentials, including a life jacket.
The trip was a wonderful way to reset and relax. The sunrises are beautiful. The sunsets are spectacular. We enjoyed walking to the James River. Guests of the Gala house have access to the campgrounds and picnic tables. The water is nice. If you don't have a fishing pole you can buy it at the country store. You can also purchase cigarettes but don't smoke them on the property.
A highlight of our stay was greeting Ruby every day. She is head of security and farm manager. She isn't aware that she is a dog. She loves to say hello. She rides every where with Richard. We took a tractor ride during our stay. It is a convenient way to explore the property and see the train tracks and farm.
The house gets chilly at night. There are quilts in each room. The televisions have basic Direct TV stations. The televisions aren't the newest, but they get basic channels. We didn't pick a place to watch television. We wanted to spend time together. There is WiFi and lots of happiness in the house.
We enjoyed day trips to Roanoke, Lexington and Salem. I highly suggest the Lexington Carriage ride. When you are coming to the house, you will use a GPS address that is down the road and not the actual address. Once you see the giant farm equipment, you know you have reached the property. That information is on the Gala Farmhouse rental page on Facebook.
The owners are kind. Richard helped fix my tire when it was low on air. We had wonderful days exploring the area and enjoying the beautiful property. Bring great people with you. That will enhance the quality of your stay. read more