Retreat at Crabtree Falls: A Glamping Oasis

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping into the serene embrace of nature without sacrificing the comforts of home, look no further than the Retreat at Crabtree Falls. Tucked away in the picturesque hollows of Nelson County, Virginia, this family-owned resort beckons with its promise of tranquility and luxury. Among its offerings are cozy cabins and, now, four exquisitely designed glamping sites.

At the heart of our vision for the Retreat at Crabtree Falls was a deep reverence for the surrounding natural beauty. We were entrusted with the task of crafting four glamping sites and a bathhouse along the tranquil Lick Branch, which meanders along the eastern boundary of the property. Inspired by the gentle cascade of mountain water and the rugged charm of the landscape, we set out to create an experience that seamlessly integrated luxury with nature.

The vision for each glamping site began with the idea of elevating camping to a new level of sophistication. Picture this: Davis Tents perched atop deck platforms, with front “porches” extending over the stream below, offering guests a front-row seat to nature’s symphony. Leveraging the abundant natural rock formations, we sculpted cascading levels for each site, mirroring the flow of the stream as it descended the mountainside.

But luxury in the wilderness isn’t just about the accommodations; it’s about the experience. Each glamping site was meticulously crafted to offer guests their own private haven. Irregular flagstone patios provide the perfect setting for gathering around Breeo fire pits, strategically positioned to ensure intimate privacy for every guest.

However, the pièce de resistance of the Retreat at Crabtree Falls is undoubtedly the private bathhouse—an ode to opulence in the heart of nature. Conceived as a sanctuary for weary travelers, the bathhouse features four individual bathrooms, each reserved exclusively for the occupants of the glamping sites.

Every detail of the bathhouse was thoughtfully considered to evoke a sense of luxury and serenity. Western red cedar columns grace the exterior, supporting a standing seam metal roof and exterior walls adorned with stone and board and-batten siding. Inside, acid-stained concrete floors, heated by a hydronic radiant system, provide warmth and comfort underfoot. Floor-to-ceiling tile, reminiscent of limestone, adorns the walls, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Floating concrete vanities add the finishing touch, marrying form and function in perfect harmony.

In crafting the glamping experience at the Retreat at Crabtree Falls, our aim was simple: to create a sanctuary where guests could reconnect with nature without sacrificing the comforts of modern living. From the tranquil babble of the stream to the flickering glow of the fire pits, every element was carefully orchestrated to provide a truly unforgettable retreat—a haven for the soul amidst the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.