Shadow Mountain Escape is a hidden Gem, as is Karen Riddle. Every detail, from the moment we…read morearrived, until the moment we left, was absolutely perfect. There are certain people that find their calling in life, and believe me, Karen has found hers providing a beautiful one stop destination/ultimate private elopement venue along with handling every aspect of our wedding (flowers, wedding cake, vows, officiant, venue, and beautiful photos). We were blown away and are so happy we chose Shadow Mountain Escape, and Karen Riddle for our special day!! We will be back.

SME is the kind of place that's so special, you want to keep it all to yourself, but can't help but…read moretell everyone you know about it! It is the coziest little getaway in Luray situated on an absolutely beautiful property. There are five cabins in total that are intended to be a couple's getaway, so the property is always very quiet and peaceful. It feels very connected to nature- we've seen deer very close to each of the structures when we've stayed. We've had the pleasure of staying in the Dragonfly, Bumblebee, and Ladybug cabins and have really enjoyed each one- they all have a similar feel but are built slightly differently. This time around, we were in the Bumblebee cabin, which is quite spacious and shares a structure with the Dragonfly cabin. There was a gas fireplace and a TV downstairs where we spent most of our time reading; there was also a couch upstairs in the hallway outside of the bedroom, and a cute balcony we probably would have spent time on if it was warmer! It is absolutely the kind of place where you can just stay in your cabin the entire time you're there, but it's also located pretty close to Sperryville and downtown Luray if you're looking to venture out. To fully take advantage of SME, I'd recommend bringing your own food or groceries to cook- there's not a whole lot close by (which is part of the charm!), but the kitchen is well-equipped with a microwave, oven, and stovetop. There's a pizza place that delivers right to the cabins, which is nice- honestly, the pizza isn't very good, but it's nice to have the option. There are also bottles of wine available for purchase in your cabin, which is nice to have available. You won't meet two nicer people than the owners of SME, Karen and Ralph. It is so clear how much they love SME and sharing their love of the property, which reflects their travels through Europe, with those who stay there. There will always be a delicious baked treat from Karen waiting in your cabin when you arrive, and if you're lucky, she or Ralph will show you around the property and tell you about the structures, all of which were built by Ralph and designed by them both. They are so friendly and kindhearted and make it such a special place to stay. As just one example- it snowed one of the nights we stayed, and Ralph cleared off our car without us even asking. SME feels so calm and peaceful- it's a true VA oasis. We're already planning our next trip back!

The owner handbook is so negative that it cast a pawl on our 4 day visit. It became a daily ritual…read moreto converse about the finer points of the rag (handbook). Specifically.. We brought our pet. Paid extra for her to be there. The Notes from the owners were negative yet numerous: ie "We were gracious enough to allow pets - You be courteous enough to... Keep them off the Furniture! Do not leave them Unattended.. so on and so forth.. Well, we brought two.. We allowed them on the furniture.... We left them unattended for periods of time.. We did as we pleased. We paid for the right to bring them - and we cleaned up after them when we left - our dog enjoyed the bed - remarking: "All the comforts of home, with a sheepish grin", when questioned! Loved the 4 miles of gravel roads to the place.. Don't trust the parking situation or expect fishing access to the near by river.. Treacherous!! Short on pots / pans / utensils / glassware.. Don't forget to bring your own bedding! Bring bags to remove your trash to a location 5 miles away!

DO NOT RENT FROM RIVER CABINS. A picture says a thousand words. Please feel free to zoom in…read more Rustic does not mean disgustingly unashamedly DIRTY. The kitchen utensils, cups, glasses, cookware and everything else, has not been replaced nor updated since 1984. You basically need to rent a uhaul and bring half of your kitchen, half of your linens, comforters, towels- just bring everything from home- DO NOT USE anything there. Drape the sofas, bedpost, use flip flops to shower, do not touch anything in shower, use disposable toilet seat cover. Just skip kitchen all together go out to eat. There are No lights on deck nor steps going down to lower deck; no lights on lower deck. So unless there's a full moon, you will basically need to bring flashlights, lanterns, solar lights, even a candle to light the way. The BBQ grill had used burnout charcoal from last renters. Couldn't open sliding doors facing the river at night because the screen doors are missing. The tv is BEHIND the sofa as if we have eyes behind our heads, and it is smaller than my computer screen. They offer streaming services- but when you open Netflix, they have created a profile with your name,in their streaming apps, without permission and it is impossible to log out of their streaming services in order to log into yours. So you are stuck with that. All 4 ceiling fans are very dirty, and with all the dust and dirt please don't forget your zyrtec. Bottom line for $145 - $165 per night, and having to haul everything that you will need- you are better off camping by the river, renting a cabin from another company or staying at a hotel. This people are riding on free natural views of the river and nature, while disgracefully renting out these cabins that are no better than camping under a bridge. DO NOT RENT FROM THEM; THEY OWN SEVERAL CABINS LIKE THIS ONE.

Our wedding party condo was double booked host canceled morning of our stay. vrbo was no help. we…read moreslept in our cars

I have a story to tell. I have always been fascinated with Cabins. Growing up a City gal from…read moreWashington, DC. I never had the chance to experience one growing up. I SIMPLY LOVE THEM! Now in this Covid Era. We find ourselves staying at them a lot more then ever. I'm sure in this past year alone. I've probably stayed at maybe five cabins in the last year. Some were repeated visits. All from May thru December 2020. This particular cabin was so cozy. The owner made it very nice and had it all set up for Christmas when we walked in. It was very peaceful and had a very nice huge hot tub which we both enjoyed. It was very clean which is everyone's concern. Especially during this difficult time that we are having with covid. It was a two bedroom with two bathrooms. If you would like to getaway with your family or as a couple. I highly recommend. We definitely plan on going back and you can stop by Luray Caverns. Beautiful place to visit and take up the lovely cave views. So why not give them a try. Everyone can appreciate some cuddle time and privacy just when you need it.

I would recommend Lazy River Cabins to all my friends and family! We have stayed at Turtledove…read moreCabin and River View Ranch many times and I am looking forward to our next stay. The cabins are beautifully decorated and stocked with all essentials. Turtledove Cabin has a hottub on the back porch with a beautiful view of the night sky. Roberto and Teresa are the sweetest couple and are willing to help in any way to make their guests happy and comfortable.

From the owner: Cedar Breeze is a vacation rental located just outside of Luray, Virginia…read more It resides on a private, country setting with the Shenandoah River, mountain hiking trails, and many local attractions nearby. If you enjoy reconnecting with nature in the peaceful outdoors or gathering with your family and friends in a rustic setting, Cedar Breeze rental is the perfect, affordable, and get-away for you! Cedar Breeze was recently remodeled for the purpose of making it a vacation rental. It is in a perfect location for anyone who wants to enjoy what the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. We are in walking distance to the Shenandoah River and 1 mile from a public boat landing. The Shenandoah River Outfitters is only minutes away by car, as well as, to hiking trails in the George Washington National Forest. Bring your fishing poles, bicycles, and hiking shoes!

My stay at the Adams River House was great! The house was spacious and beautiful just like the…read morepictures if not better. The grounds for Allstar and Outlanders were huge and I wish I knew more about it before my visit. We didn't have time to check out the river area & activities. The views were amazing. My group and I loved the hot tub and the firepit. The staff were great & really helpful.  They give you a list of items to pack -- but we did not realize 'extra' toilet paper and towels meant bring our own supply. Not a huge deal, we had to make a walmart run anyway.

We stayed at the nest cabin The area is beautiful…read more It was very clean and pleasant I would like to recommend the owners replace the mattresses in both rooms My husband and I tried them both It was like sleeping on a gravel driveway with a blanket thrown over it But the rest of the cabin was great We enjoyed it

We LOVE it at this place. Been going here for over 30 years. Wonderful owners. We go every year…read morewith a group of friends.

Absolutely wonderful place to unplug from the world and relax. You go to a place like this to get…read moreaway from your phone and internet to enjoy the beauty of the Shenandoah River with family and friends. We stayed at Misty River and are already talking about coming back next year for a two week vacation on the river. The cabins are rustic but we'll appointed. Older cabins with nice furnishings, a big screen HD TV, hot tub, full kitchen with all the essentials and all the sky, trees and River you could hope for. We had all kinds of plans to run all over the valley doing touristy stuff but spent nearly all it time at the cabin We spent every night near the water with a fire in the fire pit and every day playing in the water and fishing. The sound of the rapids to the north of the cabin help you drift off to sleep at night while the fireflies twinkle outside of your window. We fell in love with Misty River and plan to visit other Country Place cabins in the future.

We have stayed at this cabin a total of three times now. So it's apparent that we love this…read moreparticular cabin. The location is great! The views are amazing. The mountains and views is spectacular and you don't have to go hiking to see it. This cabin has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is very well kept and it has a television in every room. They also have a year around Christmas tree. Which of course this time of year comes in handy. We come to this area at least twice a year. You definitely would enjoy the hot tub. It's outdoors but so enjoyable. Also make sure you stop by Luray Caverns. It is nearby. I have been there several times already. Beautiful place to see. So my recommendation would be to check out the Lucas cabins first. They have numerous locations to see and enjoy. We definitely will be returning. So worth it. Nothing like peace and quiet when you work or live near the city. Just get ready to be moooo.

From the owner: Experience everything the Shenandoah Valley offers. Stunning fall foliage, mountain views, and our…read moreworking family farm all in one place with peace, privacy, and no crowds. Just minutes from downtown Luray, Shenandoah National Park, and Luray Caverns. Plus, it's all fully accessible without rough roads. It's the perfect combination of convenience and seclusion.

We received an email prior to our arrival with detailed instructions about the check-in process…read more The owner is available to answer questions and providing thoughtful recommendations for our stay. Briar Laine house is beautifully decorated and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We especially loved the spacious living room open into the kitchen. Perfect for a family gathering. And the game room is a fun space for all ages to enjoy with board games, cards and a foosball table. We really appreciated the extra touches like fresh towels and a welcome basket. Great location for exploring Luray, walking distance to restaurants and shops.

Great place! Highly recommend can't go wrong for choosing Briar Laine House. It's in a great…read morelocation, beautiful house well decorated with all the necessities you would need plus more. A place to relax inside and out. Its a place to have a big family gathering or just a room for two as well For a short weekend getaway. Very clean. Great parking Walking distance to small shops, restaurants. Will definitely visit again. Plan a trip soon you want regret.

We rented out a cabin to stay with our family, which happened to be 3 families with children. It…read morewas about a perfect setup for us, given the difficulties of traveling with two kids under two. The cabin came fitted with appropriate child gates and had pack n plays for them to sleep in. It also had enough for us to be comfortable and entertained together, on the mountain every night when we put them to bed. They probably undersell their amenities, so be sure to look for everything they have to offer. Overall the cabin was very clean, the terms were reasonable, it had everything we needed, and the view/location was perfect. If you're traveling to the area I'd definitely recommend looking into their options.

We rented the Breccia cabin, which has a screened in deck with jacuzzi. Fire pit and charcoal grill…read moreoutside, plus gas fireplace in living room. Loft upstairs with a small bed. Room to fit inflatable bed. The place is well maintained. Checked out Luray Caverns - amazing. Of course hiked in Shenandoah National Park and what a pleasure soaking in jacuzzi afterwards. Love, love the quiet!

This is hands down our favorite place to escape to. We've been 4 times now, and have stayed at both…read morethe Walden and Solitude cabins. The cabins are PEFECT. Modern. Very clean. Peaceful and quiet. They have everything you need to feel right at home. We prefer to disconnect from our fast paced lives while we are there, but there is wifi if you need it. We love that we can bring our pup with us. The views are spectacular. We love having a campfire each night, and we have spent many hours in those hot tubs! The owner is fantastic. He's professional, helpful and very responsive.

A private, romantic getaway! Woodside Cabins is tucked away in the Shenandoah Valley and run by…read moreDerek who owns 3 cabins - so far. The Chalet, The Cabin and Sundance. All are nice and have river access. We stayed in the Sundance cabin - a one bedroom - right on the Shenandoah River. 9 acres. What a view! Hot tub on the COVERED deck overlooking the view of the valley. sitting in the tops pf the trees and you can watch the hawk hunt. fire pit down on the river with chairs for comfort. 2 big meadows where deer wander in the mornings. paths along the river. gas fireplace. great kitchen. wsher and dryer. fantastic bathroom and shower. new flat screen TV. wifi. brought our laptop and hdmi and watched movies at night and when it rained. clean clean clean. Very private. a fantastic get away and only 1 hour and 20 minutes from DC. Highly recommended. 15 minutes from Front Royal and 10 minutes from Luray. I nearly kept one star because the grill is fixed on the wrong side of the cabin - a gas grill on that deck really would have made it perfect. But, we really had a great time and were incredibly pleased. Bring your food and booze, grab a cocktail and get in that hot tub and watch the sunset.